Sausage Pizza from Papa John's features a golden, hand-tossed crust topped with zesty tomato sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and savory Italian sausage, delivering a flavorful blend of spicy and cheesy goodness in every bite.
Equipments
- Oven
- Pizza peel
- Pizza cutter
- Dough roller or rolling pin
- Mixing bowl
- Ladle or sauce spoon
- Cheese grater
- Sausage slicer or knife
- Baking tray or pizza stone
Ingredients
- 1 ball pizza dough
- 1/2 cup zesty tomato pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup cooked Italian sausage (crumbled or sliced)
- Olive oil (for brushing crust)
Using high-quality Italian sausage with a balanced mix of herbs and spices is crucial to replicate the authentic flavor of Papa John's Sausage Pizza. Freshly shredded mozzarella cheese melts better and creates the ideal cheesy texture you're aiming for. Ensure your pizza dough is hand-tossed and evenly rolled to achieve the signature golden crust. Brushing the crust with olive oil before baking helps enhance the crispiness and adds a subtle richness. Your Sausage Pizza from Papa John's copycat menu will closely match the original when these ingredient tips are carefully followed.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) with pizza stone or baking tray inside.
- Roll out pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to desired thickness.
- Lightly brush the crust with olive oil.
- Spread tomato pizza sauce evenly over dough, leaving a border for the crust.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Evenly distribute cooked Italian sausage on top of cheese.
- Transfer pizza onto preheated pizza stone or tray using pizza peel.
- Bake for 10–14 minutes or until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Slice with pizza cutter and serve.
Substitution
Recreating Sausage Pizza from Papa John's at home requires a golden hand-tossed crust, zesty tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and savory Italian sausage to capture the iconic flavor combination. If fresh Italian sausage is unavailable, you can substitute with spicy breakfast sausage or chorizo, adjusting the seasoning to maintain the balance of spice and savoriness. Use a rolling pin to evenly flatten your dough, ensuring a consistent crust thickness for perfect baking on a pizza stone or baking tray. Your zesty tomato sauce can be customized with added herbs like oregano or crushed red pepper to mimic the exact flavor profile. Brush the crust lightly with olive oil before baking to achieve a golden, crispy edge that complements the rich toppings.
Tips
Ensure your pizza stone or baking tray is thoroughly preheated to 475degF (245degC) to achieve a crispy and golden crust. When rolling out the dough, dust your surface lightly with flour to prevent sticking without making the dough tough. Brushing the crust with olive oil before baking adds a rich flavor and helps it brown evenly. Use a pizza peel for transferring the pizza onto the hot stone or tray safely, avoiding burns or misshaping the pie.
Nutritions
Sausage Pizza from Papa John's provides a rich source of protein from the Italian sausage and mozzarella cheese, helping support muscle repair and growth. The hand-tossed crust contributes carbohydrates, supplying your body with energy for daily activities. Tomato sauce adds vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, which promote heart health. Your meal's balance of macronutrients ensures a satisfying and flavorful option that can fit into a well-rounded diet.
Storage
Store leftover sausage pizza in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil to maintain freshness. Place it in the refrigerator and consume within 3 to 4 days to avoid flavor loss and spoilage. When reheating, use your oven at 375degF (190degC) for 7-10 minutes to preserve the crispy crust and melted cheese texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap Italian sausage for spicy chorizo or mild breakfast sausage to alter the flavor profile of your pizza. For a crispier crust, try par-baking the dough for 3-5 minutes before adding toppings. Using a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese will add a richer, creamier texture to your pizza. If you prefer a smoky undertone, drizzle a bit of smoked paprika or add roasted red peppers on top before baking.
Allergies
Sausage Pizza from Papa John's contains common allergens such as wheat in the pizza dough, dairy in the mozzarella cheese, and pork in the Italian sausage, which may trigger allergic reactions. If you have gluten intolerance, lactose intolerance, or a pork allergy, it is important to avoid this pizza or seek allergen-free alternatives. Always check ingredient labels and inform the restaurant of any food allergies to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
Papa John's Sausage Pizza is celebrated for its generous toppings of high-quality, flavorful Italian sausage that perfectly complements the signature hand-tossed crust and rich tomato sauce. The blend of savory sausage and melted mozzarella cheese creates a satisfying taste experience that appeals to meat lovers. You can replicate this iconic flavor by using fresh sausage, a balanced sauce recipe, and a crispy yet soft crust in your copycat version. Creating your own Sausage Pizza at home lets you customize ingredients while enjoying the authentic taste that Papa John's is known for.