Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a pizza that redefines comfort food! Our Butternut Squash Sausage and Ricotta Pizza is not just another meal; it’s a delightful fusion of savory Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and the sweet, earthy flavor of roasted butternut squash—all nestled on a perfectly crispy crust. This gourmet pizza is easy to make and perfect for impressing friends or enjoying a cozy night in. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll be savoring every delicious bite in no time. Ready to elevate your pizza game? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 pizzas
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1 cup butternut squash, roasted and mashed
- 1 cup Italian sausage, cooked
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). This high temperature will help achieve a crispy crust.
- Prepare the butternut squash by peeling, cubing, and roasting it. Toss the cubes with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized. Once roasted, mash the squash with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove from heat and drain excess fat if necessary. Set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well mixed and creamy.
- Roll out the pre-made pizza crusts on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer the rolled-out crusts onto baking sheets or pizza stones.
- Spread half of the mashed butternut squash evenly over each pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Evenly distribute the cooked Italian sausage over the butternut squash layer on each pizza.
- Drop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the sausage and squash, ensuring that it’s spread out but not completely covering the toppings.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over each pizza, allowing for a nice cheesy topping.
- Season the pizzas with additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
- Place the pizzas in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Once baked, remove the pizzas from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes before slicing.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Butternut Squash Sausage and Ricotta Pizza!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality Italian sausage and fresh ricotta cheese. The richness of these ingredients will elevate your pizza to new heights.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or thyme before serving can also enhance the dish.
- Preheat the Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 475°F (245°C) before baking. This high temperature is key to achieving that perfect crispy crust that everyone loves.
- Roast the Squash to Perfection: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a touch of maple syrup or balsamic vinegar to the butternut squash before roasting. This will add a lovely caramelization.
- Let the Pizza Rest: After baking, allow your pizzas to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set a bit, making it easier to cut and serve without losing all the toppings.
- Experiment with Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, try mixing in some goat cheese or fontina for a unique twist. The combination of cheeses can add complexity to the flavor profile.
- Use a Pizza Stone: If you have one, a pizza stone can help achieve a crispier crust. Preheat the stone in the oven for at least 30 minutes before placing your pizza on it.With these tips, you’re all set to create a pizza that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 263kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 18g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: mg
