Introduction

If you’re looking for a delicious twist on traditional pizza, the sausage and broccolini pizza is a fantastic option. This dish combines the savory richness of sausage with the vibrant, slightly bitter flavor of broccolini, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weekend dinner or casual gathering, this pizza is both hearty and flavorful, making it a sure crowd-pleaser.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Pizza dough
– Olive oil
– Italian sausage (about 1 pound, casings removed)
– Broccolini (1 bunch, trimmed and cut into small pieces)
– Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded)
– Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated)
– Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
– Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
– Salt and pepper (to taste)

Prep Time

Prep time for this delightful recipe is approximately 20 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, preparing the toppings, and getting the dough ready for baking.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is about 15-20 minutes, depending on your oven and the crispiness you desire for your pizza crust. This brings the total time to around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields one large pizza, which can serve 3 to 4 people, making it a perfect meal for a small gathering or a family dinner.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the pizza.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccolini

Wash the broccolini thoroughly and trim the ends. Blanch it in boiling water for about 2 minutes, then transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, add the sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a spatula. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.

Step 4: Roll Out the Pizza Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a round shape, about 12 inches in diameter. Make sure it’s evenly stretched.

Step 5: Assemble the Pizza

Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of olive oil over the dough. Evenly distribute the cooked sausage and blanched broccolini on top. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Pizza

Place the pizza in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice into wedges and serve hot.

Notes

Note 1: Dough Options

You can use store-bought pizza dough for convenience or make your own if you prefer.

Note 2: Cheese Variations

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone or ricotta, for additional flavor.

Note 3: Additional Toppings

Add other toppings of your choice, like red pepper flakes or garlic, for extra spice and flavor.

Note 4: Storage

Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Cook techniques

Dough Preparation

Using high-quality flour, water, yeast, and salt, mix the ingredients until a smooth, elastic dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes to develop gluten, which is essential for a chewy crust.

Pizza Stretching

Once the dough has risen, gently flatten it by hand to de-gas. Then, use your fingers to stretch the dough, working from the center outwards to create a round shape without tearing.

Toppings Arrangement

When layering toppings, start with the sauce, followed by cheese and then assorted toppings like sausage and broccolini. This ensures even cooking and prevents the crust from becoming soggy.

Baking Technique

Bake the pizza in a preheated oven at a high temperature (around 475°F) to achieve a crispy crust. Place it on a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet for optimal heat retention.

Garnishing

After baking, let the pizza cool for a minute before adding fresh ingredients like arugula or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor and a refreshing contrast.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought dough instead of making my own?

Yes, store-bought dough can save time and still yield great results for your pizza.

What type of cheese works best for this pizza?

A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan is ideal for achieving a flavorful and gooey texture.

Can I substitute broccolini with another vegetable?

Yes, other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even kale can work well as substitutes.

How do I know when the pizza is done baking?

The pizza is done when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.

Is it possible to make this pizza gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free pizza crust or dough to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

The sausage and broccolini pizza is a delightful dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures, making it an excellent choice for pizza lovers. The combination of savory sausage and nutritious broccolini creates a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time. This recipe not only enhances your pizza-making skills but also encourages you to experiment with ingredients to suit your taste.

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