This unique pizza features spicy sausage, creamy feta, and a sweet touch of honey, making every bite a tasty adventure. It’s a fun twist on your favorite flavors!
I love how the heat from the sausage pairs perfectly with the sweetness of honey. It’s like a flavor party in my mouth! Don’t forget to share, or you’ll be tempted to eat it all yourself! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade dough can enhance the flavor. If gluten is a concern, gluten-free pizza dough options work just as well!
Hot Italian Sausage: This is the star of the dish! If you prefer a milder taste, you can swap it with sweet Italian sausage or ground turkey sausage. Vegetarian sausage options are available too for a meatless version.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy flavor. If you can’t find it or don’t like it, goat cheese is a fantastic alternative. For a creamier option, try ricotta but adjust the quantity since it’s milder.
Honey: Honey gives a delightful sweetness. Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for a different flavor profile, or agave syrup for a vegan-friendly option.
Cheese: Mozzarella is the classic choice for pizzas. For a richer taste, mix in some provolone or fontina cheese. Consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative if needed.
What’s the Trick to Rolling Out Pizza Dough Evenly?
Getting the perfect thickness when rolling out dough is key for a great pizza crust. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with room temperature dough, as it’s easier to work with.
- Dust your work surface with flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking.
- Use a rolling pin, or your hands, to gently spread the dough. Rotate it often for even thickness.
- A 1/4 inch thickness is ideal, allowing a nice crisp crust while holding toppings.
Don’t be afraid to use your fingers to stretch the edges for a more authentic pizza shape!
How to Make Hot Sausage Feta Honey Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 lb hot Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1/4 cup honey
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Cornmeal or flour for dusting
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pizza recipe will take about 25-30 minutes to prepare and bake. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes cooking the sausage and getting your dough ready, followed by 12-15 minutes in the oven until it’s perfectly baked. Enjoy the aromatic smells in your kitchen while it bakes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it inside the oven to heat up. This will help achieve a crispy crust!
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the hot Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Season it with salt and pepper. Once done, set it aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Dough:
Lightly dust a surface with flour or cornmeal. Roll out your pizza dough to your desired shape, about 1/4 inch thick. Make sure it’s even so it cooks nicely!
4. Transfer to Pizza Stone:
Carefully take the hot pizza stone or baking sheet out of the oven. Place your rolled-out dough on it. Be careful; it’s hot!
5. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the dough. Use a brush or your fingers to spread it evenly across the surface. This adds flavor and helps with browning.
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough. This will create a gooey, delicious base for your toppings!
7. Add Sausage and Feta:
Next, distribute the cooked hot sausage over the cheese. Then, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top to add a tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sausage.
8. Drizzle Honey:
Now, drizzle honey evenly across the pizza. This sweet touch will meld beautifully with the savory sausage and cheese.
9. Season to Taste:
If you like a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes on top for that extra kick.
10. Bake the Pizza:
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
11. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove your pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice it up, serve hot, and enjoy your delicious Hot Sausage Feta Honey Pizza!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the hot Italian sausage with sweet Italian sausage or even chicken sausage. Just remember to adjust the spices if you’re using uncooked sausage to ensure the flavors are still vibrant.
How Can I Make This Pizza Vegetarian?
If you want to make a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and load up on your favorite veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also add extra feta cheese or a variety of shredded cheese for added flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the pizza slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through, to restore that crispy crust!
Can I Prepare the Pizza Dough Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the pizza dough a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to use it, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out for the pizza.