This Sausage and Broccolini Pizza is a delightful departure from the ordinary, a vibrant tapestry of flavors and textures that dance harmoniously on a crisp, golden crust. Imagine the savory burst of Italian sausage mingling with the slightly bitter, earthy notes of broccolini, all brought together by a creamy blend of ricotta and mozzarella, punctuated by the freshness of basil and mint. This isn’t just pizza; it’s an experience.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out the sausage for a vegetarian alternative, or experiment with different cheeses and vegetables to create your own signature combination. Second, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even for novice cooks. The instructions are straightforward, and the active cooking time is minimal. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, it’s absolutely delicious. The combination of flavors and textures is truly irresistible, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or any occasion that calls for a satisfying and memorable meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy! The freshness of the ingredients sings through in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pound refrigerated pizza dough, at room temperature
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/3 cup roughly chopped fresh basil
- 2/3 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (about 8 ounces)
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 hot or sweet Italian sausages (about 12 ounces), casings removed
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 bunch broccolini, cut into florets
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Place an inverted baking sheet on the lowest rack to preheat. This ensures a crispy crust. Preheating the baking sheet is crucial; it mimics a pizza stone and helps the bottom crust cook evenly and become wonderfully crisp.
Step 2: Line another inverted baking sheet with parchment paper and drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil. This prevents the pizza from sticking and makes it easier to transfer to a cutting board after baking. Using parchment paper is a simple yet effective trick for achieving pizza perfection.
Step 3: Shape the pizza dough into an 8-inch oval on the parchment and flip to coat with oil. Drape loosely with plastic wrap and let rest. Allowing the dough to rest relaxes the gluten, making it easier to stretch and work with. This step is vital for a light and airy crust. Don’t skip the plastic wrap; it prevents the dough from drying out.
Step 4: In a small bowl, combine diced tomatoes and basil. This creates a simple yet flavorful base for the pizza. Using fresh basil adds a burst of aromatic freshness that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Step 5: In another bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, and mint. Season with ½ tsp salt and freshly ground pepper. This cheese mixture provides a creamy, tangy counterpoint to the savory sausage and broccolini. The mint adds an unexpected hint of freshness that elevates the flavor profile.
Step 6: Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and garlic, cooking for 5 minutes while breaking up the meat. Transfer to a plate. Cooking the sausage beforehand ensures that it’s fully cooked and adds a layer of depth to the pizza. Breaking up the sausage ensures even distribution of flavor. The garlic infuses the sausage with its pungent aroma.
Step 7: Add the broccolini and ½ cup water to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes until crisp-tender. Cooking the broccolini slightly softens it and mellows its bitterness. The water helps steam the broccolini, ensuring that it cooks evenly. Crisp-tender broccolini retains a satisfying bite.
Step 8: Stretch the dough to an 11×14-inch rectangle. Spreading the ricotta mixture on top, then layer with tomatoes, cooked sausage, and broccolini. Distributing the toppings evenly ensures that every slice is bursting with flavor. Don’t overload the pizza; too many toppings can make the crust soggy.
Step 9: Slide the pizza (with parchment) onto the hot baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden. Baking the pizza on a preheated baking sheet ensures a crispy crust. Keep an eye on the pizza while it’s baking to prevent burning. The golden crust is a sign of pizza perfection.
Step 10: Transfer to a cutting board, slice, and serve hot. Allow the pizza to cool slightly before slicing to prevent the toppings from sliding off. Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to slice the pizza into even slices. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
COOKING Rating:
Easy to Moderate
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this pizza with a simple side salad, such as a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette. A glass of Chianti or other Italian red wine would also be a perfect complement. For dessert, consider a scoop of gelato or a slice of tiramisu. This pizza is also delicious cold, making it a great option for lunch the next day. Cut into smaller squares, it makes a great appetizer.
Tips:
- For a spicier pizza, use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture.
- If you don’t have broccolini, you can substitute broccoli florets.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone or fontina.
- For a crispier crust, brush the edges of the dough with olive oil before baking.
- If you don’t have time to make your own pizza dough, you can use store-bought pizza dough.
- Make sure your oven is properly preheated, the hotter, the better!
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
- Calories: 450-550 per slice
- Protein: 20-25 grams per slice
- Sodium: 600-800 mg per slice
Conclusion
This Sausage and Broccolini Pizza is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to explore the endless possibilities of pizza making. With its vibrant flavors, satisfying textures, and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will delight your taste buds and impress your friends and family. This pizza is a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients, transformed into a truly unforgettable dish. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen broccolini instead of fresh?
A: While fresh broccolini is ideal for its superior texture and flavor, frozen broccolini can be used in a pinch. Be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the skillet, as excess moisture can make the pizza soggy. You may also want to cook it for a slightly shorter time, as frozen vegetables tend to cook faster than fresh ones.
Q2: Can I make the pizza dough from scratch?
A: Absolutely! Making your own pizza dough is a rewarding experience and allows you to customize the flavor and texture to your liking. There are countless pizza dough recipes available online, ranging from simple no-knead recipes to more complex sourdough variations. If you’re using homemade dough, be sure to allow it to rise properly before shaping it and adding the toppings.
Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this pizza?
A: Of course! This recipe is highly adaptable, and you can easily add other vegetables to suit your taste. Some great options include sliced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, or artichoke hearts. Just be sure not to overload the pizza with too many toppings, as this can make the crust soggy.
Q4: How can I make this pizza vegetarian?
A: To make this pizza vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and add a vegetarian sausage substitute or additional vegetables. Some excellent vegetarian sausage options include plant-based sausages made from soy, seitan, or mushrooms. You can also add extra vegetables, such as roasted red peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, to create a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian pizza.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat leftover pizza?
A: The best way to reheat leftover pizza is in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, covered with a lid, for a few minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving the pizza, as this can make the crust soggy. For the crispiest results, reheat the pizza on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
