A Step-By-Step Guide to Making Delicious Sheet Pan Pizza with Sausage
Pizza is a timeless classic that brings everyone together, and nothing tops a homemade pizza made from scratch. Among the various styles of pizza, the sheet pan pizza stands out for its crispy crust and ample toppings, making it ideal for feeding a crowd. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making sheet pan pizza with sausage—complete with detailed instructions, tips, variations, and a whole lot more!
Table of Contents
- What is Sheet Pan Pizza?
- Ingredients for Sheet Pan Pizza
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- 3.1 Making the Dough
- 3.2 Preparing the Sauce
- 3.3 Cooking the Sausage
- 3.4 Assembling the Pizza
- Tips for Perfect Sheet Pan Pizza
- Creative Variations to Try
- Serving Suggestions
- Nutritional Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
What is Sheet Pan Pizza?
Sheet pan pizza is a rectangular pizza baked in a sheet pan, giving it a thicker crust and making it easier to feed a larger group. It’s typically topped with a rich tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and a variety of toppings. The appeal of sheet pan pizza lies in its simplicity and versatility—it can be tailored to suit any taste.
Ingredients for Sheet Pan Pizza
To create a mouthwatering sausage sheet pan pizza, gather the following ingredients:
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
For the Sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings
- 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir in olive oil and salt. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Preparing the Sauce
- Cook the Garlic: In a saucepan over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes & Herbs: Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 15-20 minutes to develop flavors. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cooking the Sausage
- Brown the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, add the sausage. Using a wooden spoon, break it up and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain Fat: Remove from heat and drain excess fat. Set aside.
Assembling the Pizza
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a floured surface. Stretch it into a large rectangle that fits your sheet pan (approximately 18×13 inches).
- Prepare the Pan: Grease the sheet pan with olive oil and carefully transfer the dough into the pan, pressing it to fit.
- Add Sauce & Toppings: Spread the prepared sauce evenly over the dough, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and top with the cooked sausage.
- Bake Pizza: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Finishing Touches: Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves before slicing.
Tips for Perfect Sheet Pan Pizza
- Dough Consistency: The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. Adjust flour as needed.
- Hot Oven: A hot oven is key to achieving a crispy crust. If your oven has a pizza stone, use it for even better results.
- Resting Time: Letting the dough rise properly will yield a fluffier crust.
- Pre-cooked Toppings: For meats like sausage, always cook beforehand to ensure they are fully cooked.
Creative Variations to Try
Sheet pan pizza is incredibly versatile. Here are some variations to keep things exciting:
1. Veggie Lovers Pizza
- Add bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives for a colorful, vegetarian option.
2. BBQ Chicken Pizza
- Replace the sauce with barbecue sauce and top with cooked chicken, red onions, and cilantro.
3. Margherita Pizza
- Use fresh mozzarella slices, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a simple yet delicious classic.
4. Meat Lovers Pizza
- Load it with pepperoni, ham, bacon, and sausage for a hearty meal.
5. Buffalo Cauliflower Pizza
- Substitute sausage with roasted buffalo cauliflower, and drizzle ranch dressing after baking.
Serving Suggestions
Sheet pan pizza is perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving ideas:
- Pairing: Serve with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer ranch or marinara sauce on the side for dipping crusts.
- Presentation: Slice into squares for easy serving at parties or gatherings.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content for one slice of sausage sheet pan pizza (assuming 12 slices total):
- Calories: 290
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 12g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Always check product labels for accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, you can use store-bought dough for convenience. Just follow the package instructions for rising and baking.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I freeze this pizza?
Absolutely! After baking, let the pizza cool, slice, and freeze in an airtight container. It can last for up to 3 months.
What oil is best for greasing the pan?
Olive oil is ideal due to its flavor, but you can also use vegetable oil or non-stick cooking spray.
Conclusion
Creating a delicious sheet pan pizza with sausage is a rewarding culinary experience that anyone can enjoy. With its thick, crispy crust, savory sausage, and gooey cheese, it can easily become a household favorite. Experiment with different toppings and variations to suit your tastes, and don’t forget to share this delightful dish with family and friends. Happy cooking!
