If you’re looking for an out-of-this-world homemade pizza that’ll have everyone asking for seconds, you absolutely have to try Pizza with Brussels Sprouts & Sausage. This is no ordinary pie—featuring perfectly blistered crust, a savory blanket of mozzarella, caramelized roasted Brussels sprouts, and peppery sausage, it’s a magical blend of flavors that’s both comforting and unexpected. Whether you’re sharing it with family on movie night or making it for friends, this pizza is bound to become a beloved ritual in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Pizza with Brussels Sprouts & Sausage is just how accessible the ingredients are—each one plays a starring role. From the pizza dough that forms the crispy, chewy base to the bold flavors of sausage and Brussels sprouts, every element adds to a seriously delicious whole. Here’s what you’ll need and a little insight into why it matters:
- Individual Pizza Dough Balls: Grab two 9-ounce dough balls and let them come to room temperature for better stretching and a gorgeous crust.
- Quick & Easy Pizza Sauce: Smooth, tangy, and full of tomato flavor, homemade or store-bought will work for that saucy foundation.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Brushing the crust with olive oil adds depth and encourages that signature golden color.
- Diced Mozzarella: Four cups of mozzarella means a perfectly gooey, cheesy layer in each bite.
- Coarse Sea Salt: Just a sprinkle enhances every flavor on the pie and adds a tasty crunch.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Halved: Roasting brings out their best side: nutty, caramelized, and utterly irresistible.
- Cooked Crumbled Sausage Meat: Pick your favorite—it brings all the bold, meaty flavor and classic Italian zip to the pizza.
How to Make Pizza with Brussels Sprouts & Sausage
Step 1: Heat Your Oven and Stone
Start by cranking your oven to its highest setting—usually about 500 degrees F—and place a pizza stone on the middle rack, if you’ve got one. The intense heat is the secret to a restaurant-worthy crust with that irresistibly crisp bite and airy chew.
Step 2: Flatten the Dough
Lay your dough balls on a lightly floured surface and gently press each into a flat, round disk. This step gives you a head start on shaping, and the flour keeps things from sticking.
Step 3: Stretch to Size
Using your fingers and knuckles, work with confidence to stretch the dough out to a 12 to 14-inch circle. Be gentle but firm—the goal is a nice, even base that will cook up beautifully with some air pockets along the edges.
Step 4: Prep Your Baking Surface
If you have a baking peel, dust it with cornmeal or flour. Don’t have one? A metal pizza pan works just fine. This step ensures the dough won’t stick and makes sliding it into the oven a breeze.
Step 5: Brush with Olive Oil
Use a pastry brush to coat the outer two inches of your dough with that luscious extra virgin olive oil. This not only amps up flavor but encourages the edges to turn golden and crisp in the oven.
Step 6: Spoon on the Sauce
Divide the pizza sauce between the two pizzas, spreading it evenly over the base but leaving that oil-brushed edge bare for a perfect crust.
Step 7: Add the Cheese
Generously scatter the diced mozzarella over the sauce, making sure to leave little gaps for the cheese to bubble and brown. The more even you layer it, the better every bite.
Step 8: Brussels Sprouts & Sausage Time
Now for the star toppings! Bring on the roasted Brussels sprouts—they add a pop of color and nutty sweetness. Sprinkle the crumbled, cooked sausage over the top, tucking it between the veggies so every slice gets a bit of everything.
Step 9: Salt & Bake
Sprinkle your pizzas with coarse sea salt for that final punch of flavor, then bake each one for about 15 to 20 minutes. If you notice one side browning faster, give it a turn midway through. You’ll know it’s done when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling—hardest part is waiting!
Step 10: Cool, Slice, and Serve
Let your Pizza with Brussels Sprouts & Sausage cool for five minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set just a touch and makes for neater slices. Slice it up, grab a piece, and dig in!
How to Serve Pizza with Brussels Sprouts & Sausage
Garnishes
There are so many ways to finish your Pizza with Brussels Sprouts & Sausage. Try a shower of freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a scattering of torn fresh basil. For a more decadent experience, finish with a quick drizzle of good extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon over the Brussels sprouts to brighten everything up.
Side Dishes
Keep things simple and let the flavors shine with a crisp green salad, maybe tossed with a lemony vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sausage. A bowl of marinated olives or roasted garlic makes an excellent starter, and you can’t go wrong with a chilled glass of white wine or a hoppy IPA to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, slice the pizza into smaller squares or triangles and serve on a big wooden board—perfect for sharing. Try pairing it with a colorful platter of pickled veggies, or even offer mini versions as an appetizer at your next get-together. Don’t hesitate to get playful—Pizza with Brussels Sprouts & Sausage looks and tastes stunning set out family-style!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (it’s rare, trust me!), wrap slices tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors of the Pizza with Brussels Sprouts & Sausage deepen by the next day, making for a truly tasty lunch or snack.
Freezing
To freeze, let the pizza cool completely, then wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container and enjoy your homemade creation up to two months later—with minimal effort!
Reheating
For best results, reheat Pizza with Brussels Sprouts & Sausage in a hot oven or toaster oven at 400 degrees F for 5 to 8 minutes. This brings back the crispy crust and melty cheese, making leftovers taste nearly as good as fresh-baked.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a great shortcut for Pizza with Brussels Sprouts & Sausage. Let it come to room temperature before shaping to get the best texture and a stretchy, pizzeria-style crust.
What kind of sausage works best?
Both sweet Italian sausage and spicy varieties work beautifully in this pizza. If you like it a little fiery, go for hot sausage; if you prefer something milder, classic pork or even chicken sausage will deliver delicious results.
Can I roast the Brussels sprouts in advance?
Yes, you can! Roast the Brussels sprouts earlier in the day (or even a day before), let them cool, and store in the fridge. This makes assembling the Pizza with Brussels Sprouts & Sausage a breeze when it’s time to bake.
What cheese can I substitute for mozzarella?
While mozzarella gives that traditional melted stretch, feel free to play with fontina, provolone, or a blend—just make sure to use a cheese that melts well and complements the savory toppings.
How do I get a super crispy crust?
The secret lies in using a screaming hot oven and, if possible, a preheated pizza stone. Also, avoid overloading the pizza with sauce or toppings—this helps keep the crust crisp while baking your Pizza with Brussels Sprouts & Sausage.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to shake up pizza night, there’s nothing more impressive and satisfying than Pizza with Brussels Sprouts & Sausage. It’s a vibrant, cozy, and utterly crave-worthy twist on tradition, perfect for sharing. Give this recipe a try and let it become a new favorite at your table!
Pizza with Brussels Sprouts & Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delicious pizza recipe combines the flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts and savory sausage on a crispy crust, topped with melty mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough:
- 2 Individual Pizza Dough Balls (About 9 Ounces Each), at room temperature
Pizza Toppings:
- 1 Cup Quick & Easy Pizza Sauce
- 2 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 4 Cups Diced Mozzarella
- Coarse Sea Salt, to taste
- 3 Cups Roasted Brussels Sprouts, halved
- 2 Cups Cooked Crumbled Sausage Meat
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Heat the oven to 500 degrees F with a pizza stone on the middle shelf.
- Prepare the Dough: Flatten each dough ball into a 12 to 14 inch circle on a floured surface.
- Transfer Dough: Place the dough on a baking peel or pizza pan.
- Add Toppings: Brush with olive oil, top with sauce, mozzarella, Brussels sprouts, and sausage.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes until brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes, then slice and enjoy!
Notes
- You can customize the toppings with your favorite ingredients.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and add more veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pizza (1/2 of recipe)
- Calories: 800
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
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