This Sweet and Spicy Sausage Pizza is a fun twist on a classic favorite! With zesty sausage, creamy feta, and a drizzle of honey, it’s sure to make your taste buds dance.
Who knew pizza could have a sweet side? I love how the honey perfectly balances the spiciness of the sausage. Perfect for cozy nights in with friends (or just me and my couch!) 🍕❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience. If you’re up for it, homemade dough tastes amazing too! For a gluten-free option, try a gluten-free pizza crust available at stores.
Spicy Italian Sausage: This is the star of the pizza! If you want less spice, use sweet Italian sausage or ground turkey sausage. You can also make it vegetarian by replacing it with a mix of mushrooms and spices.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a great tang to the pizza. If you can’t find it, try using goat cheese for a similar flavor or even ricotta for creaminess.
Honey: The honey brings sweetness. If you prefer, maple syrup also works beautifully. You can also use agave nectar for a vegan option!
How Do I Ensure My Pizza Dough Is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting that dough just right is key! Here are some tips:
- Let the dough rest: If it’s too cold, it will be hard to stretch. Rest it at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Dust with flour or cornmeal: This will keep the dough from sticking to the surface and the pizza stone.
- Preheat your oven: A very hot oven is essential, especially if using a pizza stone. It helps get a crispy crust.
- Watch the time: Keep an eye on your pizza as it bakes. You want a golden crust and bubbly cheese, usually about 10-12 minutes.
- Let it cool slightly: Before slicing, let your pizza rest for a minute so the cheese sets a little. This will make it easier to slice!
These simple steps will help you make an incredible pizza every time! Enjoy!
Sweet and Spicy Sausage Pizza with Feta and Honey
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking sausage)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp honey, for drizzling
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Cornmeal or flour for dusting
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pizza takes approximately 15 minutes of prep time and about 12 minutes of cooking time. So, you’re looking at around 30 minutes total from start to finish for a delicious homemade pizza that’s sure to please!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven now so it gets nice and hot while you prepare everything else.
2. Cook the Sausage:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the spicy Italian sausage. Use a spatula to break it into small chunks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Dough:
On a lightly floured or cornmeal-dusted surface, roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch round shape. This will be your pizza base. Make sure not to roll it too thin!
4. Transfer the Dough:
Carefully move the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or a baking sheet dusted with flour or cornmeal. This will help prevent it from sticking later on.
5. Add Mozzarella Cheese:
Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pizza dough. This will create a delicious melty layer!
6. Top with Sausage:
Distribute the cooked spicy sausage evenly over the cheese. This will give each bite that great flavor!
7. Add Feta Cheese:
Now, crumble the feta cheese evenly atop the sausage. The creamy feta will provide a lovely contrast to the spice.
8. Spice it Up (Optional):
If you want a little extra heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top.
9. Bake the Pizza:
Slide the pizza onto your hot pizza stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
10. Drizzle with Honey:
As soon as it comes out of the oven, drizzle the honey over the top of the pizza for that perfect sweet touch that balances the spice.
11. Slice and Serve:
Allow the pizza to cool for a moment, then slice it up and serve warm. Enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors!
Now, dig in and savor each bite of this sweet and spicy delight!
FAQ for Sweet and Spicy Sausage Pizza with Feta and Honey
Can I Use Mild Sausage Instead of Spicy?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to use sweet Italian sausage. You can also adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or omit them entirely if you’d like a less spicy pizza.
How Long Does Leftover Pizza Last?
Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat it in the oven or an air fryer for a few minutes to get the crust crispy again!
Can I Make This Pizza Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sausage and roll out the dough a few hours in advance. Just keep the dough covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, just assemble the pizza with cheese and toppings, bake, and enjoy!
What’s the Best Way to Reheat This Pizza?
The best way to reheat pizza is in the oven or on a skillet. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and heat for about 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly again. If using a skillet, cover it with a lid on low heat for a few minutes until heated through.
