There’s nothing quite like a warm, freshly baked pizza straight from the oven. But when you’re craving something a little different from the usual pepperoni or cheese, this Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza will hit all the right notes. It’s savory, satisfying, and just the right amount of comforting. Trust me, you’re going to love this!
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Why You’ll Love Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s the magic of this pizza—it’s made with just a few simple ingredients, but the result is a flavor explosion that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s break it down:
Turkey Sausage: The lean, flavorful base of the pizza. Turkey sausage gives you that savory, satisfying bite, without the heaviness of traditional sausage.
Broccoli Rabe: The star of the show! It adds a slight bitterness that pairs beautifully with the richness of the sausage, giving the pizza a unique twist.
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought or homemade dough, depending on how much time you have. Either way, it’s the perfect canvas for all those delicious toppings.
Mozzarella Cheese: A melty, gooey layer of cheese that brings it all together. It’s mild enough to complement the sausage and broccoli rabe without overpowering them.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of parmesan for that salty, nutty finish. It’s the little touch that makes a big difference.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures even cooking and gives your crust that perfect golden brown finish.
Cook the Turkey Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the turkey sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Set aside.
Prepare the Broccoli Rabe: In the same skillet, sauté the broccoli rabe until it’s tender and slightly wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
Roll Out the Pizza Dough: Roll your dough out onto a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Place it on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
Assemble the Pizza: Spread a thin layer of mozzarella cheese over the dough. Add the cooked turkey sausage and sautéed broccoli rabe on top. Sprinkle with a little extra mozzarella for good measure.
Bake to Perfection: Bake the pizza for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Finish with Parmesan: After the pizza comes out of the oven, sprinkle a generous amount of grated parmesan cheese over the top for that irresistible final touch.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice up your pizza and serve warm! It’s the perfect mix of savory sausage, tender broccoli rabe, and gooey cheese.
How to Serve Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza
This pizza pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the pizza.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious bits of sausage or sauce left on your plate. Garlic bread works wonderfully.
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, ranch dressing, or a creamy dip to complement the bold flavors of the pizza.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this pizza is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil for a finishing touch.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Prep Ahead: Save time by prepping the sausage and broccoli rabe the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up: Want a little heat? Sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the pizza before baking for a spicy kick.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap out regular mozzarella for a dairy-free version or use gluten-free pizza dough.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the crust crisp.
Double the Batch: This recipe is great for making extras. Double the batch, freeze one pizza for later, and you’ve got a quick dinner ready to go!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute turkey sausage with regular sausage?
A1: Absolutely! If you prefer regular sausage, feel free to swap it in. It will add a bit more richness and flavor, but the pizza will still be delicious.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! Prepare the pizza ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven for a quick reheat.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a hot oven for a couple of minutes until warm.
Q4: Can I freeze this pizza?
A4: Yes! You can freeze the assembled, uncooked pizza. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this pizza?
A5: The best way to reheat pizza is in the oven at 375°F for about 5-7 minutes to keep the crust crispy.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! This recipe is perfect for doubling, especially if you’ve got a crowd to feed. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly for a larger batch.
Q7: Can I use a different green vegetable instead of broccoli rabe?
A7: Yes! You can substitute spinach or kale if broccoli rabe isn’t available. They’ll offer a similar texture and flavor profile.
Q8: Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
A8: Yes! Simply use gluten-free pizza dough, and you’ve got a gluten-free version that’s just as delicious.
Q9: Can I add other toppings to the pizza?
A9: Of course! Feel free to add mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers if you’re in the mood for extra toppings.
Q10: How can I make this pizza spicier?
A10: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce on top before serving for that extra kick!
Conclusion
Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza is more than just a pizza; it’s an experience. It’s the perfect balance of savory sausage, slightly bitter greens, and melty cheese on a golden crust. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or impressing guests at a party, this pizza is a guaranteed hit. So grab your ingredients, get that oven preheating, and let the deliciousness begin!
Print
Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 1 large pizza or 2 medium pizzas
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza is the perfect fusion of comfort and nutrition. Topped with savory turkey sausage, tender broccoli rabe, melty mozzarella, and smoked provolone on crispy homemade dough, it’s ideal for weeknight cravings or weekend gatherings. A drizzle of optional truffle oil elevates the flavor for a fine dining twist at home. If you’re looking for quick and easy dinner recipes with ground beef alternatives, this healthy and protein-packed pizza is a must-try.
Ingredients
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2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
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1 large onion, sliced
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
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3 sweet or hot turkey sausages, casings removed (about 12 oz)
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1 bunch broccoli rabe, washed and trimmed
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1 pound pizza dough, room temperature
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1/2 cup pizza sauce
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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6 slices smoked provolone cheese (4 to 6 oz)
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Truffle oil, to taste (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 550°F (or as high as it will go).
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In a large sauté pan over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add onions and cook for about 10 minutes until browned.
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Add garlic and red pepper flakes; cook briefly until fragrant.
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Add turkey sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, 6–8 minutes.
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Stir in broccoli rabe. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until wilted and tender, about 5 minutes. Continue cooking until any liquid evaporates. Remove from heat and let cool.
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Roll dough into an 18–20-inch round (or two smaller rounds). Place on floured pizza peel or parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
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Top with pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella, provolone slices, and the cooled broccoli rabe/sausage mixture.
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Bake on a pizza stone for 6–8 minutes, or until crust is crisp and cheese is melted.
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Drizzle with truffle oil if using, slice, and serve hot.
Notes
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You can substitute regular broccoli if broccoli rabe is unavailable.
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For a spicier kick, use hot Italian turkey sausage.
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Add chili oil instead of truffle oil for a spicy finish.
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Great for meal prep—reheat slices in the oven or air fryer!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 35mg