Grilled Sausage and Peppers Pizza

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This grilled sausage and peppers pizza takes your typical pizza night to a whole new level. The combination of sweet bell peppers, savory sausage, and creamy cheeses makes each bite a flavor-packed experience. The pesto adds an extra layer of delicious herbaceous flavor that perfectly complements the grilled veggies and sausage. With its smoky, grilled components and rich toppings, this pizza is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pizza dough, divided into 2 balls
• 3 tablespoons pesto
• 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 3/4 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 of a yellow onion, peeled and root intact
• 1 red bell pepper, cored, seeds removed, and cut into quarters
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cored, seeds removed, and cut into quarters
• 2 links Spicy Italian Chicken Sausage, cooked
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). While the grill is heating, prepare your pizza dough by dividing it into two balls. Let it rest for 10 minutes before rolling it out.
2. Grill the vegetables: Brush the onion halves and bell pepper quarters with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the onion and peppers on the grill. Grill the vegetables for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are charred and tender. Once done, remove them from the grill and set aside to cool slightly. Slice the grilled vegetables into thin strips.
3. Grill the sausage: Cut the cooked spicy Italian chicken sausage into slices. Place the sausage slices on the grill for 2-3 minutes to get a little char. Remove them from the grill and set aside.
4. Prepare the pizza crusts: Roll each ball of pizza dough out on a lightly floured surface to your desired size. If you’re using a grill-safe pizza stone, preheat it on the grill for a few minutes. Alternatively, you can grill the pizza directly on the grill grates.
5. Assemble the pizzas: Spread 1 1/2 tablespoons of pesto on each pizza dough base. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Add a dollop of ricotta cheese on each pizza, then scatter the grilled vegetables and sausage slices on top.
6. Grill the pizza: Place the assembled pizzas on the preheated pizza stone or directly on the grill grates. Cover the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
7. Garnish and serve: Remove the pizzas from the grill. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and cut into slices. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes 2 pizzas, serving about 2-4 people.
• Prep time: 20 minutes (plus dough resting time)
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian version: Skip the sausage and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant for a hearty, veggie-packed pizza.
• Different sausage: If you prefer a milder sausage, you can substitute the spicy Italian chicken sausage with sweet Italian sausage or turkey sausage.
• Cheese variations: Swap out the ricotta for goat cheese or feta cheese for a tangy twist, or add Parmesan for a nutty depth of flavor.
• Add extra toppings: Top the pizza with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an added flavor boost.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the pizza in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is warm. You can also reheat individual slices in a skillet over low heat to preserve the crispy crust.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought pizza dough if you’re short on time. Just make sure to let it rest before rolling it out for the best texture.

2. Can I make this pizza in the oven instead of on the grill?

Yes, you can bake the pizza in the oven at 475°F (245°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.

3. Can I use regular Italian sausage instead of chicken sausage?

Yes, you can use regular Italian sausage. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the pizza.

4. What other vegetables can I add to the pizza?

You can add any grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant. You can also try adding spinach or arugula for a fresh touch after grilling.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute the mozzarella and ricotta with any cheese you like. Provolone, goat cheese, or a four-cheese blend would all work well.

6. Can I prepare the vegetables and sausage ahead of time?

Yes, you can grill the vegetables and sausage a day ahead and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the pizza.

7. How can I make the pizza crust crispier?

To make the crust extra crispy, you can preheat the pizza stone or grill grates before adding the dough, and brush the edges of the dough with olive oil before grilling.

8. Can I make this pizza without pesto?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of pesto, you can use marinara sauce or olive oil as the base for the pizza.

9. Can I freeze the pizza dough?

Yes, you can freeze pizza dough. After dividing it into balls, wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.

10. How can I adjust the heat of the sausage?

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use a sweet Italian sausage or omit the spicy sausage altogether and add other flavoring ingredients like garlic or chili flakes.

Conclusion

Grilled sausage and peppers pizza is a perfect combination of smoky grilled vegetables, spicy sausage, and creamy cheeses, all piled on a crispy pizza crust. With the added depth of pesto and fresh basil, this pizza is a delightful and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Whether grilled outdoors or baked in the oven, this pizza is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the flavors of summer and Italy in every bite!

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