I still remember the first time I tried white pizza. It was a rainy evening, and the cozy warmth of the house made everything feel extra special. The creamy sauce, delicious Italian sausage, and melted cheese created a comfort that was hard to resist. This Italian Sausage White Pizza is more than just another recipe; it’s a tradition that brings family and friends together. You don’t need fancy ingredients or advanced techniques to make it, just a love for good food and a few simple steps. What makes this pizza special is its white sauce, which gives it a creamy richness unlike any other pizza.
why make this recipe
You should make this Italian Sausage White Pizza because it’s comforting, delicious, and easy to prepare. Perfect for a family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, this pizza brings everyone together. The combination of Italian sausage and creamy sauce creates a flavorful bite that will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, making pizza is always a fun and engaging activity to share with loved ones.
how to make Italian Sausage White Pizza
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115 F)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 ½ cup all-purpose flour (312 grams), plus 3 tbsp extra
- 3 tbsp butter (43 grams)
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (23 grams)
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup milk
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- 1 cup cooked Italian sausage (bulk)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- In a bowl of a stand mixer, add the yeast and warm water. Let it stand until the yeast is foamy.
- Add the salt and olive oil, then stir.
- Add the flour and knead with the dough hook until a shaggy dough forms. Continue to knead until the dough gathers in the center of the bowl. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle 1 tbsp of flour at a time until it clears the sides of the bowl. Do not add too much flour; the dough should be tacky and soft.
- Gather the dough and place it in a lightly greased bowl, tossing it to coat. Cover loosely with a clean towel and let it rise for 1½ hours.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until bubbly. Whisk in the flour until there are no lumps. The mixture should be golden.
- Add the milk and whisk until the sauce thickens. Stir in nutmeg (if using). Remove from heat and stir in the parmesan cheese until melted. Set the sauce aside.
- Once the dough has risen, divide it into two portions. Use half for this pizza, and you can freeze the other half well-wrapped for up to two weeks.
- Preheat the oven to 450 F. Shape the dough for a 12-inch pizza pan. Let the weight of the dough help stretch it out. Pat it gently until it reaches the edges.
- Spread half of the white sauce on the dough, then top with half of the Italian sausage and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Dollop the remaining white sauce over the pizza, then add the rest of the sausage and mozzarella. Sprinkle the oregano and basil on top.
- Bake for 16-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden.
- Serve immediately, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired!
how to serve Italian Sausage White Pizza
Slice the pizza into wedges and serve it hot. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy it with friends or family, sharing laughs and stories as you feast on this delightful dish.
how to store Italian Sausage White Pizza
If you have leftovers, let the pizza cool completely. Then, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pizza slices; just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
tips to make Italian Sausage White Pizza
- Make sure your water temperature is just right (105-115 F) to activate the yeast.
- Don’t rush the dough rising; let it double in size for the best texture.
- Adjust the spices in the white sauce to your taste, adding more nutmeg or cheese if you like.
variation (if any)
Feel free to customize your pizza! You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a different flavor. You could also use different types of cheese such as provolone or goat cheese for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough a day in advance. Let it rise, then store it in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping.
2. What kind of Italian sausage should I use?
You can use either spicy or mild Italian sausage, depending on your preference.
3. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using store-bought pizza dough is a quick and easy alternative. Just follow the baking instructions on the package.
