There’s something magical about the aroma of roasted squash wafting through the kitchen, mingling with the savory scent of sausage. Fall Pizza with Sausage and Squash is not just a meal; it’s an enchanting experience that dances on your taste buds. fun apple snacks for kids With each bite, you’ll taste the essence of autumn, a delightful blend of sweetness from the squash and the hearty warmth of sausage.
Picture this: gathering around the table with friends, laughter echoing, and everyone’s eyes lighting up as you unveil this glorious pizza masterpiece. stuffed peppers for fall flavors It’s perfect for cozy fall evenings or festive gatherings, promising flavors that will leave everyone clamoring for seconds. fun party mix for gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Fall Pizza with Sausage and Squash is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile combines sweet and savory elements to create a mouthwatering experience
- Visually stunning with vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress your guests at any dinner party
- Versatile enough to switch up ingredients based on what you have on hand makes it a family favorite!
This pizza has won hearts at many family dinners, especially when my brother declared it “the best pizza ever,” while devouring three slices in record time.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pizza Dough: Store-bought or homemade, you choose—just ensure it’s stretchy and ready to hold all those toppings.
- Italian Sausage: Use spicy or sweet sausage depending on your heat preference; it adds a nice kick. cozy Italian soup.
- Butternut Squash: Choose firm squash; roasting enhances its natural sweetness and gives a great texture.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil elevates all the flavors while helping everything crisp up nicely.
- Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for fresh mozzarella for that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth goodness; don’t skimp on this!
- Fresh Sage Leaves: Sage adds an earthy aroma; use whole leaves for maximum flavor impact.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient in the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats up, peel and cube your butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Roast the Squash: Spread the seasoned squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for about 25 minutes until tender and caramelized. You’ll know it’s ready when they turn golden brown and smell like autumn magic.
Cook the Sausage: While the squash roasts, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add your sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks until browned and fully cooked through—about 7-10 minutes. The sizzling sound will make your mouth water!
Roll Out Your Dough: Once everything else is cooking away beautifully, roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface into your desired shape—thick or thin crust? You decide! Transfer it to a lightly greased baking sheet or pizza stone.
Add Toppings Like a Pro!: Spread the cooked sausage evenly over your dough, followed by roasted squash cubes. Tear fresh mozzarella into chunks and sprinkle them across like confetti. Lastly, add sage leaves on top for that aromatic punch.
Bake to Perfection!: Slide your masterpiece into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly. The intoxicating aroma filling your kitchen will have everyone asking if dinner is ready yet!
Once baked to perfection, let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm while imagining how you just turned an ordinary evening into something special.
Now you’re equipped to impress not only yourself but also anyone lucky enough to share this delightful Fall Pizza with Sausage and Squash with you! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes recipe.
You Must Know
- Fall pizza with sausage and squash is a delightful dish that balances savory and sweet flavors
- The combination of roasted squash and spicy sausage creates a warm, hearty meal perfect for chilly evenings
- Enjoying this pizza fresh from the oven makes it extra special!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting the squash and cooking the sausage. While these are in the oven, prepare your dough for an efficient process.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the sausage for your favorite protein or add extra veggies. Experiment with different cheeses to elevate your fall pizza flavor!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve a crispy crust, preheat your pizza stone or baking sheet before placing the dough
- Avoid overloading with toppings; less is more for even cooking
- Let the dough rest before stretching; it makes handling much easier!
Sharing my first experience making fall pizza was unforgettable! My friends couldn’t stop raving about it, and one even suggested I start a pizza blog—maybe one day!
FAQ
Can I use frozen squash for the fall pizza?
Yes, but thaw it completely and drain excess moisture before using.
What type of cheese works best on this pizza?
A blend of mozzarella and goat cheese adds creaminess and tanginess.
How can I make the crust healthier?
Consider using whole wheat flour or a cauliflower-based crust for a nutritious twist.
Fall Pizza with Sausage and Squash
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Fall Pizza with Sausage and Squash is a delectable blend of sweet butternut squash and savory sausage, creating an irresistible dish perfect for autumn gatherings. The warm, comforting flavors and inviting aroma will transport you to cozy evenings shared with loved ones. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, this pizza promises to be the star of any meal, leaving everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup Italian sausage (spicy or sweet)
- 2 cups butternut squash (peeled and cubed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (torn into chunks)
- 5 fresh sage leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and cube butternut squash, then toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread seasoned squash on a baking sheet; roast for 25 minutes until golden brown.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned (7-10 minutes).
- Roll out pizza dough on a floured surface; transfer to a greased baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Top dough with cooked sausage, roasted squash, mozzarella, and sage leaves.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly. Let cool slightly before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
