Sheet Pan Pizza with Italian Sausage and Mozzarella Recipe

If you are craving a delicious, crowd-pleasing dinner that comes together with ease, this Sheet Pan Pizza with Italian Sausage and Mozzarella Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine layers of savory Italian sausage cooked to perfection, bubbly mozzarella melting over a golden crust, all baked on a single sheet pan for minimal cleanup. This recipe brings classic pizza flavors to life in a straightforward way that anyone can master, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, flavorful ingredients is the key to making this dish truly shine. Each item plays a vital role — from the rich sausage that adds heartiness to the gooey mozzarella that ensures every bite is cheesy and satisfying. Together, they form the foundation of a pizza you’ll fall in love with.

• Olive oil (2 Tablespoons, divided): Used for cooking the sausage and greasing the pan, it adds a subtle fruity aroma and helps prevent sticking.
• Ground sweet or mild Italian sausage (3/4 pounds): Brings a savory, slightly spiced meatiness essential for authentic Italian flavor.
• Pizza dough (16 ounces): The base of your pizza, providing a soft yet crisp crust once baked.
• Cornmeal (1 Tablespoon): Sprinkled on the pan to keep the dough from sticking while adding a slight crunch to the crust edges.
• Pizza sauce (1 cup): Offers a tangy, herby layer that complements the sausage and cheese perfectly.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups, divided): Creates the irresistible, golden, gooey topping that makes pizza universally loved.

How to Make Sheet Pan Pizza with Italian Sausage and Mozzarella Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by warming your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese that every great pizza needs. While the oven heats, you’ll get a head start prepping the sausage and dough.

Step 2: Brown the Italian Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and break it apart into small pieces. Cook it until it’s browned and fragrant, about 5 to 6 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep your pizza from getting greasy, then set the sausage aside. This savory, browned meat will add so much depth to your pizza.

Step 3: Prepare the Sheet Pan

Grease a 13×9-inch sheet pan using the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to ensure your dough doesn’t stick. Sprinkle a tablespoon of cornmeal evenly over the oil-coated pan. This step might seem small, but that cornmeal helps create a slight crunch on the bottom of your crust that’s just delightful to bite into.

Step 4: Shape the Pizza Dough

Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface, then gently stretch it to fit snugly in your prepared sheet pan. If the dough pushes back or feels too elastic, don’t worry — let it rest for 5 minutes to relax the gluten, then try stretching it again. This patience pays off with a beautifully even base.

Step 5: Spread the Sauce

With the dough evenly in place, spread 1 cup of pizza sauce over it, leaving a small border around the edges. This sauce layer is where the pizza starts to sing: tangy, slightly sweet, and herby. Be sure to spread it evenly for balanced flavor in every bite.

Step 6: Add the First Layer of Mozzarella

Sprinkle half of your shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce. This first layer melts into the sauce and dough, creating a creamy base for the sausage and the remaining cheese on top.

Step 7: Top with the Sausage

Evenly scatter the browned Italian sausage over the cheese. This generous layer ensures every slice gets a hearty hit of savory meat, complementing the cheese and sauce perfectly.

Step 8: Add the Final Mozzarella Layer

Finish assembling by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella evenly on top. This final cheese layer will melt into a bubbly, golden blanket that pulls you in the moment you open the oven door.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place your sheet pan pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden, and the crust edges turn a lovely golden brown. Keep an eye on it so you catch that perfect moment.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes on the sheet pan. This rest period helps the cheese set just enough so that each slice is neat and easy to handle. Then slice it up and get ready to enjoy this fabulous Sheet Pan Pizza with Italian Sausage and Mozzarella Recipe!

How to Serve Sheet Pan Pizza with Italian Sausage and Mozzarella Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing your pizza can elevate it from great to unforgettable. Try sprinkling freshly chopped basil or oregano on top after baking for a bright, herbal note. If you like a bit of heat, crushed red pepper flakes add a subtle kick that pairs beautifully with the sausage.

Side Dishes

Keep things fresh and balanced with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette or serve roasted vegetables alongside. Garlic knots or a simple Caesar salad also make fantastic companions, turning your pizza night into a full feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual gatherings, cut the pizza into small squares for easy finger food. You can even serve it buffet-style straight from the sheet pan for a cozy, communal feeling. Pairing it with a selection of your favorite craft beers or a big pitcher of iced tea always hits the spot too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This pizza reheats well and makes a fantastic lunch or midnight snack.

Freezing

You can freeze fully baked pizza slices wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 2 months. To thaw, leave them overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen for a warm, comforting bite anytime.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftover pizza in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until the cheese bubbles again. If you’re in a rush, a quick zap in the microwave works but can make the crust a bit softer.

FAQs

Can I use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild?

Absolutely! If you love a little heat, swapping in spicy Italian sausage will add an extra layer of flavor and a nice kick, making the Sheet Pan Pizza with Italian Sausage and Mozzarella Recipe even more exciting.

Is it necessary to use cornmeal on the pan?

Cornmeal is not required but highly recommended. It prevents sticking and adds a slight crunch to the crust’s edges that enhances the texture beautifully.

Can I make the dough from scratch?

Definitely! Homemade dough will bring extra love to this recipe. Just make sure it’s stretched thin enough to fit your sheet pan and rested for ease of handling.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply leave out the Italian sausage and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or artichokes instead. The cheese and sauce still deliver plenty of flavor and satisfaction.

What can I do to prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Preheating the pan in the oven before adding the dough helps create a crisper bottom. Also, avoid piling on too much sauce or toppings, as excess moisture can weigh down the crust.

Final Thoughts

This Sheet Pan Pizza with Italian Sausage and Mozzarella Recipe truly captures the joy of homemade pizza with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a satisfying and fun way to bring everyone together around the table. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite in your meal rotation!

Print