If you’re craving a pizza that brings a perfect balance of hearty protein and vibrant greens, the Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Each bite offers a deliciously crispy crust layered with gooey mozzarella and provolone cheeses, spicy turkey sausage bursting with flavor, and tender, slightly bitter broccoli rabe that cuts through the richness with a fresh, green punch. This pizza is a true crowd-pleaser that feels homemade but comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients, making it a fantastic option for any weeknight or casual dinner party.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward, quality ingredients. Each item plays a unique role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and colors to make your Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza Recipe truly sing.
- 1 pound pizza dough: The foundation – soft yet crisp crust is essential for that perfect bite.
- 8 ounces turkey sausage (casings removed): Adds savory, slightly spicy protein without excess fat.
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe (trimmed and chopped): Brings a wonderful, slightly bitter green contrast and vibrant color.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing and adding richness to the toppings.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the pizza with aromatic depth and warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Introduces a subtle kick of heat to keep things exciting.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty cheese that stretches with every slice.
- 1/2 cup grated provolone cheese: Adds a smoky, tangy layer that complements the mozzarella perfectly.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a salty, nutty finish and golden crust.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To perfectly season the sausage and greens.
- Cornmeal or flour for dusting: Prevents sticking and gives the crust extra crunch.
How to Make Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to a sizzling 475°F, and pop your pizza stone or baking sheet inside to ensure it’s hot when your pizza hits the oven. This step is crucial for a crispy, golden crust that makes every bite satisfying.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey Sausage
In a large skillet, warm one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, then transfer it to a plate. This sausage layer packs the pizza with lean, savory flavor.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Broccoli Rabe
Use the same skillet with the remaining olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing briefly to release their fragrant aroma. Then add the chopped broccoli rabe, cooking it just until tender — about 3 to 4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, ensuring it’s perfectly balanced in flavor.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to the thickness you like. Transfer it carefully to a piece of parchment paper dusted with cornmeal or flour. This makes sliding the pizza in and out of the oven a breeze while giving your crust a slight crunch.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
Layer the mozzarella and provolone cheeses evenly across the dough. Spread the cooked sausage and broccoli rabe mixture on top with care, then finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This layering ensures each slice is bursting with flavor and perfectly gooey in every bite.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Using the parchment paper as your guide, transfer the pizza onto the hot stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese bubbles enticingly. Let the pizza sit for a few minutes before slicing—it helps everything set for a neat, satisfying slice.
How to Serve Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
Add fresh herbs like torn basil or a sprinkle of chili flakes to bring more color and layers of flavor. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving can elevate each slice and add a luscious richness.
Side Dishes
This pizza pairs beautifully with crisp salads featuring citrusy vinaigrettes or a garlic-infused roasted vegetable medley. These sides offer refreshing brightness and texture contrasts that balance the pizza’s hearty personality.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this pizza on a rustic wooden board for a family-style meal, making it inviting and shareable. You could also cut it into smaller squares for party platters, making it easier for guests to enjoy with their hands.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pizza in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil and place it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days, ready to be enjoyed cold or reheated.
Freezing
If you want to stash some for a future craving, wrap slices well in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen pizza slices can last up to one month without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza Recipe is in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 8 to 10 minutes. This helps the crust stay crisp and the cheeses meld deliciously once again.
FAQs
Can I substitute the broccoli rabe with another green?
Absolutely! If you can’t find broccoli rabe, broccolini or even fresh spinach work wonderfully. They soften quickly and bring a milder flavor, so your pizza will still taste fantastic.
Is turkey sausage the only meat option for this recipe?
You can switch it up with spicy Italian sausage or even ground chicken if you prefer. Just remember to adjust the cooking time and seasonings to keep that perfect flavor balance.
Do I have to use a pizza stone?
While a pizza stone helps achieve a crisp crust, a baking sheet works just fine when heated well in the oven. Just be sure to preheat it thoroughly for the best results.
Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free pizza dough or crust alternative. The toppings and flavors will remain just as delicious.
How spicy is this pizza?
The crushed red pepper flakes and turkey sausage provide a gentle kick of heat, but it’s not overpowering. You can always adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or use hot turkey sausage for a spicier version.
Final Thoughts
This Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza Recipe is a delightful way to bring wholesome, bold flavors right to your home kitchen. It’s hearty yet fresh, cheesy but balanced with greens, and straightforward to prepare. Next time you want a pizza that feels both comforting and a little adventurous, give this recipe a try—you might just find your new go-to pizza night hero!
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Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 1 large pizza (about 4 servings)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza combines savory turkey sausage with slightly bitter broccoli rabe, melted mozzarella and provolone cheeses, and a crispy golden crust. A perfect homemade Italian-American pizza offering a healthy, flavorful weeknight dinner option that’s rich in protein and vibrant with fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Meat and Vegetables
- 8 ounces turkey sausage (casings removed)
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe (trimmed and chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cornmeal or flour for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up thoroughly.
- Cook Turkey Sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Transfer the cooked sausage to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Broccoli Rabe: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, then sauté the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped broccoli rabe and cook for 3–4 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
- Prepare the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness. Carefully transfer the rolled dough onto a sheet of parchment paper, dusted with cornmeal or flour to prevent sticking.
- Assemble Pizza: Evenly spread the shredded mozzarella and grated provolone cheeses over the dough. Layer the cooked turkey sausage and sautéed broccoli rabe mixture on top. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the pizza.
- Bake the Pizza: Carefully slide the pizza, still on the parchment paper, onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful, homemade turkey sausage and broccoli rabe pizza.
Notes
- For a spicier pizza, opt for hot turkey sausage instead of mild.
- If broccoli rabe is hard to find, substitute with broccolini or fresh spinach for a similar taste and texture.
- Using a pizza stone helps achieve a crispier crust but a baking sheet works well too.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your desired heat level.
- To make rolling dough easier, let it rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before rolling.
