This pizza is a fun mix of spicy sausage and creamy feta, topped with a drizzle of sweet honey. It’s a treat for your taste buds!
I love how the flavors work together; spicy and sweet make a delicious team! Perfect for cozy nights with friends—just be ready for them to ask for seconds! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience, but homemade dough can really elevate the flavor. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free pizza crust instead.
Hot Italian Sausage: This brings the heat! If you prefer milder flavors, choose sweet Italian sausage or turkey sausage. For a vegetarian option, consider using a plant-based sausage substitute.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is the go-to for pizza, but you can also use provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for different flavors.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a tangy kick to the pizza. If you’re not a fan, goat cheese or blue cheese can be tasty alternatives.
Honey: Sweet honey drizzled on top is the star of this recipe. If you want a different flavor, try agave syrup or a spicy honey for an added kick.
How Do I Get My Pizza Crust Perfectly Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy crust is all about technique. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven properly. The hotter, the better! A pizza stone helps achieve a crispier base.
- Roll the dough thin. A thinner crust will cook faster and crisp up nicely.
- Don’t overload with toppings. Too many toppings can make the crust soggy. Keep a balanced portion!
- Bake until golden brown. Keep an eye on it around the 10-minute mark to avoid burning while ensuring the crust is cooked through.
These steps will help you make sure your pizza turns out delicious and crispy every time!
Easy Hot Sausage and Feta Honey Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, about 12-inch)
- 1 cup hot Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for brushing crust)
- 2-3 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pizza will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and sure to be a hit!
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 in the oven to heat up—it will help give your crust that perfect crunch!
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the hot Italian sausage. Break it into small chunks as it cooks, about 6-8 minutes, until browned and fully cooked. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat before setting it aside.
3. Prepare the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to about 12 inches in diameter. Once rolled, transfer it to a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making it easier to move to the oven.
4. Add Olive Oil (Optional):
If you like, brush the crust lightly with olive oil. This step adds flavor and helps the crust get a nice golden color.
5. Layer the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough. This acts as the base layer, creating a delicious melt as the pizza bakes.
6. Add the Sausage:
Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the mozzarella. Make sure to distribute it well so every slice has that delicious heat!
7. Top with Feta:
Now sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the sausage. The creamy feta will complement the sausage beautifully.
8. Bake the Pizza:
Carefully transfer the pizza onto the preheated stone in the oven or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
9. Drizzle with Honey:
Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and immediately drizzle honey over the top. This adds the perfect sweet touch!
10. Add Red Pepper Flakes (Optional):
If you love some extra heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the honey. It enhances the flavors even more!
11. Slice and Serve:
Slice the pizza, serve warm, and enjoy the incredible combination of spicy sausage, creamy feta, and sweet honey. It’s a flavor explosion!
Enjoy your delicious and easy hot sausage and feta honey pizza! 🍕
FAQ: Easy Hot Sausage and Feta Honey Pizza
Can I Make This Pizza with a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to use sweet Italian sausage if you prefer a milder flavor, or try turkey sausage for a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, look for plant-based sausage alternatives.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Pizza?
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, which helps to keep the crust crispy.
Can I Prepare the Pizza Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make or buy the pizza dough ahead of time. Just refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Before rolling it out, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to make it easier to work with.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less heat, you can either use mild Italian sausage or eliminate the red pepper flakes altogether. If you like it spicier, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha along with the honey!
