Caspian from Mod Pizza features a flavorful blend of spicy Italian sausage, pepperoni, mozzarella, and tangy banana peppers atop a hand-tossed, thin-crust pizza, baked to golden perfection with a crispy edge and gooey cheese center.
Equipments
- Pizza oven
- Pizza peel
- Dough roller or rolling pin
- Mixing bowls
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle or spoon (for sauce)
- Cheese grater
- Baking tray or pizza stone
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz (115g) spicy Italian sausage
- 2 oz (55g) pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup sliced banana peppers
- Flour (for dusting)
The key to achieving the authentic Caspian from Mod Pizza flavor lies in using spicy Italian sausage and tangy banana peppers, which provide the signature spicy and tangy bite. Fresh, high-quality mozzarella cheese enhances the gooey center, while a hand-tossed, thin-crust pizza dough ensures a crispy edge when baked in a hot pizza oven. Be sure to evenly distribute the toppings over the sauce to balance flavors in every bite. Lightly dust your work surface with flour when rolling out the dough to prevent sticking and maintain the thin crust texture. If you're looking to recreate the Caspian from Mod Pizza at home, focus on assembling these ingredients precisely and baking in a pizza oven or on a pizza stone for best results.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat the pizza oven to 475°F (245°C) with the pizza stone inside.
- Lightly flour the work surface and roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
- Transfer the rolled dough onto a floured pizza peel.
- Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough using a ladle or spoon.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Evenly distribute spicy Italian sausage (cooked and crumbled) on top of the cheese.
- Layer pepperoni slices over the pizza.
- Add sliced banana peppers evenly across the surface.
- Slide the assembled pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking tray.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Use the pizza peel to remove the pizza from the oven.
- Let it cool slightly, slice, and serve.
Substitution
Caspian from Mod Pizza copycat menu can be easily customized if you don't have spicy Italian sausage; try using chorizo or a spicy turkey sausage for a similarly bold flavor. If fresh banana peppers are unavailable, pickled jalapenos can add a different yet enjoyable tang and heat to your pizza. When rolling out your dough, dust your surface and dough lightly with flour to prevent sticking without drying it out. Using a pizza stone will yield a crispier crust compared to a baking tray, but both options work well depending on your equipment. Remember to preheat your pizza oven or conventional oven thoroughly to ensure an evenly cooked pizza with a nicely melted cheese top.
Tips
When rolling out your pizza dough, dust the surface and rolling pin lightly with flour to prevent sticking without overworking the dough, which can make it tough. Make sure your spicy Italian sausage is fully cooked and crumbled before adding it to the pizza to ensure even cooking and safety. Use a pizza stone preheated in the oven to achieve a crispy crust with golden edges and a perfectly gooey cheese center. After baking, allow your Caspian pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing to help the cheese set and avoid topping slippage.
Nutritions
The Caspian pizza from Mod Pizza provides a rich source of protein from spicy Italian sausage and pepperoni, essential for muscle repair and growth. Mozzarella cheese contributes calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health, while banana peppers add dietary fiber and a boost of vitamin C for immune function. Your meal also includes carbohydrates from the hand-tossed thin crust, providing energy. Be mindful of sodium content, which can be elevated due to the processed meats and cheese.
Storage
Store leftover Caspian pizza in an airtight container or tightly wrapped foil to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate within two hours of baking to keep the mozzarella cheese from becoming rubbery and the sausage safe to eat. When reheating, use a pizza stone or oven at 375degF (190degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore the crispy crust and melty cheese for your best enjoyment.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap spicy Italian sausage with Italian chorizo or turkey sausage for a different protein profile and moderate heat level. Instead of banana peppers, pickled jalapenos or roasted red peppers add a unique tang and spice contrast. Try mixing mozzarella with provolone or fontina cheese for a creamier texture and slightly different flavor. For a crispier crust, par-bake the dough for 4-5 minutes before layering toppings and finishing the bake.
Allergies
The Caspian from Mod Pizza contains common allergens such as wheat in the pizza dough and dairy in the mozzarella cheese. The spicy Italian sausage and pepperoni may also contain preservatives or spices that could trigger sensitivities. If you have allergies to gluten, dairy, or processed meats, it's important to consider these ingredients before enjoying your pizza.
Why this recipe?
The Caspian menu from Mod Pizza captivates customers with its unique blend of fresh, high-quality ingredients paired with bold Mediterranean flavors. Its combination of tender lamb, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs creates a distinctive taste that sets it apart from typical pizza offerings. You'll appreciate the balance of savory and zesty elements that make every bite memorable and satisfying. Recreating this flavorful pizza at home allows you to enjoy a gourmet experience with personalized ingredients and the satisfaction of crafting a beloved Mod Pizza favorite.