Chef Mitchell preparing Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza while exploring traditional Italian flavors during my travels. The perfect balance of creamy ricotta and spicy sausage immediately captivated my taste buds. Over the years, I've perfected the recipe to highlight the richness of the ingredients and the simplicity of preparation. It has since become a favorite in my kitchen and among my friends."

As a culinary expert specializing in Italian cuisine, I have spent over a decade perfecting dinner recipes that bring comfort and joy to the table. My passion for food is reflected in every dish I create, focusing on fresh, quality ingredients and authentic flavors. I love sharing my knowledge with others to help them enjoy cooking as much as I do.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza served on a plate

Why This Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza Recipe Works

This Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the bold flavors of Italian sausage, creating a perfect harmony. The crust is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making every bite a delightful experience. With a blend of simple ingredients, this recipe showcases the best of Italian cooking.

The technique involved in this recipe ensures that the pizza dough rises beautifully while the toppings meld together perfectly. Baking it at a high temperature allows the cheese to melt evenly, creating that sought-after gooey texture. Plus, the addition of fresh basil at the end adds an aromatic touch that elevates this dish to the next level.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, let your pizza dough rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before rolling it out. This helps to relax the gluten, making it easier to shape and resulting in a lighter crust. Additionally, using a preheated pizza stone can help achieve that perfect crispy base.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the pizza ahead of time by assembling it and storing it in the refrigerator. However, it's best to bake it fresh to enjoy the crispy crust. If you need to store it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap after assembling. When you're ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

If you're looking for alternatives to ricotta cheese, consider using cottage cheese or mascarpone for a similar creamy texture. Cream cheese can also work, but may need to be thinned with a bit of milk for a smoother consistency. For a dairy-free option, try using a nut-based cream cheese or a tofu-based ricotta substitute.

Your pizza is done when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned. You can slide a spatula under the pizza and feel if the bottom is firm and crispy. If the cheese is melted and there are some browned spots, it’s a good indication that it’s ready to come out of the oven.

Yes, you can freeze Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza. To do this, assemble the pizza without baking it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and bake it directly from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad dressed in vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread for a heartier meal. For beverages, consider serving it with a light red wine, such as Chianti, or a refreshing Italian soda. For dessert, a light sorbet or tiramisu would make a delightful end to your meal.

Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating. When reheating, you can use the oven to maintain its crispiness or a microwave for convenience.

Yes, you can prepare the pizza in advance by assembling it and storing it in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to bake it fresh. If you must prepare it ahead of time, refrigerate it for no more than a day to ensure the ingredients remain fresh.

The best way to reheat Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza is to place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method helps to restore some of the original crispiness of the crust. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid to warm the toppings evenly.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your pizza turns out too dry, it may be due to overcooking or insufficient sauce.

Solution: To prevent this, make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time and add enough sauce to keep the pizza moist. You can also brush the crust with olive oil before baking for added moisture.

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Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If your pizza crust is not crispy, it might result from not using enough heat or moisture on the dough.

Solution: To achieve a crispier crust, ensure your oven is preheated well and consider baking on a pizza stone. Avoid overloading the toppings, which can add moisture and prevent crisping.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the pizza appears burnt or overly dark, it may have been baked too long.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, keep a close watch during the last few minutes of baking. You can also lower the oven temperature slightly if you find that your pizza tends to brown too quickly.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked center often results from baking at too low a temperature or not enough time.

Recovery: To remedy this, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer for accuracy. If the edges are browning too fast, you can cover them with foil while allowing the center to cook longer.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the crust is burnt while the toppings are undercooked, it may be due to uneven baking.

Prevention: To avoid this, rotate the pizza halfway through the baking process and ensure the oven's heat is evenly distributed. Using a baking stone can also help with even cooking.

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Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If your pizza tastes too sweet, reduce the amount of sauce or add more savory toppings like cheese or sausage.

Too Salty: If the pizza is too salty, balance it by adding a bit of sugar to the sauce or incorporating less salty ingredients.

Bland: For a bland pizza, enhance the flavor with additional herbs, spices, or a sprinkle of cheese to elevate the taste.

Fresh ingredients for Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza

Essential Ingredients for Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza

The key ingredients for this Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza include high-quality Italian sausage and creamy ricotta cheese. These foundational elements provide the pizza with its characteristic flavor and richness. Fresh mozzarella adds a gooey texture while Parmesan provides a savory depth. Don't forget the pizza dough; a good crust is essential for the overall success of the dish.

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients can make a significant difference in the final taste of your pizza. Opt for locally sourced produce when possible, and look for artisanal cheeses. This attention to detail not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a more satisfying overall dining experience.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Italian Sausage: Choose high-quality Italian sausage with a good balance of spices. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can opt for sweet sausage instead of spicy. Removing the casings and crumbling the sausage helps it cook evenly and distribute throughout the pizza.
  • Ricotta Cheese: When selecting ricotta cheese, look for fresh and creamy varieties for the best flavor. You can even make your own by straining yogurt or cottage cheese for a healthier option. Mixing in herbs can elevate the taste and add more depth to your pizza.
  • Pizza Dough: For the best pizza crust, consider using homemade dough. However, if you're short on time, a store-bought option can work fine. Ensure the dough is at room temperature before rolling it out to make shaping easier and to achieve a better rise in the oven.
Cooking process for Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Creating Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza is straightforward and involves a few essential steps. Start with preheating your oven and cooking the sausage, then roll out your dough. The layering of ingredients is crucial; start with sauce, then ricotta, followed by sausage and cheese. This ensures each bite has a perfect balance of flavors.

For perfect results, ensure your oven is hot enough to create that desirable crust texture. Keep an eye on the pizza while it bakes, as the cooking time can vary based on your oven's characteristics. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to experiment with toppings to make this pizza your own!

Key Technique for Perfect Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza

The most important technique for making Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza is preheating your oven to the right temperature. A high heat ensures that the crust cooks through while maintaining its crispiness. Additionally, using a pizza stone can help achieve that authentic pizzeria-style crust by evenly distributing heat during baking.

Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup pizza sauce
    Store-bought or homemade
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    Adds depth
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
    For heat
  • Salt to taste
    Enhances flavors

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb Italian sausage
    Crumble and cook
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
    Room temperature for easier spreading
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    For topping
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    For flavor
  • 1 pizza dough
    Store-bought or homemade
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil
    Chopped for garnish
  • Olive oil
    For drizzling

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.

  2. Cook the Sausage

    In a skillet over medium heat, crumble the Italian sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.

  3. Prepare the Dough

    Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness and shape.

  4. Spread the Sauce

    Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.

  5. Add Ricotta and Sausage

    Dollop ricotta cheese over the sauce and sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the top.

  6. Add Cheeses and Seasonings

    Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, followed by oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.

  7. Add Optional Toppings

    If using, add bell peppers, black olives, and red onions on top of the cheese.

  8. Bake the Pizza

    Transfer the pizza to the preheated stone or baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy.

  9. Garnish and Serve

    Remove from the oven, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with fresh basil before slicing and serving.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Savory Sausage Ricotta Pizza is best served hot, garnished with fresh basil. Pair it with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light red wine complements the flavors beautifully.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize your pizza with different toppings, such as vegetables or various cheeses. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or spicy sausage. Experiment with herbs for different flavor profiles.