What is Italian Sausage on Pizza? A Closer Look at This Beloved Topping

This recipe takes a simple Italian sausage pizza and makes it more interesting by adding two types of cheese, a chiffonade of basil or baby spinach leaves, and swirls of pesto and red sauce. Feel free to use store-bought sauces to make it even easier!.

As a child, I loved putting Italian sausage on my pizza. When I say “sausage,” I mean small meatball-sized chunks, not pre-cooked slices (though those can be tasty too). It tastes and feels just right—springy, meaty chunks, anise and dried herb seasonings, creamy cheese, tangy tomato sauce, crunchy-chewy crust, and yes, those grease pools that form on top while it bakes.

In my version of the classic pizzeria pie, I use a base layer of both pesto and red sauce to bring out the herbaceous notes in the Italian sausage. (The swirl, pictured above, ensures that both sauces end up on every slice. Then I keep it simple: just small pieces of cooked sausage, diced fresh mozzarella, a sprinkle of finely shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano, and baby spinach (or basil) on top to finish.

The best results will come from pizza sauce that has been cooked down and pesto that is still bright green from the food processor. So, since you only need ⅓ cup of pesto and ½ cup of red sauce, now might be a good time to use something from a jar or a can. I promise Ill never judge!.

Italian sausage is a hugely popular pizza topping, and for good reason. The zesty, savory meat adds great flavor and texture contrast to a hot, melty slice of pizza. But what exactly is Italian sausage made of, and how does it differ from other sausages used on pizza? Let’s take a closer look.

The Origins and Makeup of Italian Sausage

Italian sausage traces its roots to southern Italy, where pork is a very common meat. The sausage gets its signature flavor from fennel seeds, which impart a bit of licorice-like sweetness. Other popular seasonings used include garlic, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, and parsley.

Authentic Italian sausage is made from a mixture of ground pork and pork fat. The exact ratios vary, but a typical breakdown is 80% lean pork to 20% fat. This mixture allows the sausage to remain juicy and succulent when cooked.

In the US, Italian sausage frequently contains a blend of meats like pork, veal, and beef. There are two main varieties

Mild Italian sausage – Has just a touch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for subtle heat
Hot Italian sausage – Packs more punch with extra red pepper flakes or cayenne.

Both types deliver big, bold flavor perfect for topping pizza.

How Italian Sausage Is Used on Pizza

On pizza, Italian sausage is typically removed from the casing and crumbled into small, bite-size pieces. This allows the meat to cook up browned and crispy.

The sausage is usually pre-cooked before being added as a topping. This prevents the interior from remaining raw when the quick-cooking pizza comes out of the oven.

Here are some classic ways Italian sausage is incorporated into pizza recipes:

Even layer – The crumbled sausage is scattered evenly over the pie.
Paired with veggies – Italian sausage is often combined with sautéed peppers, onions, mushrooms, etc.
Bacon and sausage – Crispy bacon makes a perfect meaty match for Italian sausage.
White pizza – Sausage and ricotta make a delightful pairing on white pizzas sans tomato sauce.

No matter how it’s used, the Italian sausage adds hearty richness and spice.

Other Popular Sausage Pizza Toppings

While Italian sausage reigns supreme, other sausage varieties also make tasty pizza toppings. Some commonly used types include:

Chorizo – This spicy Spanish sausage adds smoky paprika flavor.
Andouille – The Louisiana smoked sausage brings a peppery kick.
Kielbasa – Polish sausage makes a nice change of pace from Italian.
Bratwurst – German sausage paired with sauerkraut screams Oktoberfest.
Breakfast sausage – Savory sage breakfast sausage works great on pizza.
Chicken apple sausage – A lighter, healthier sausage option.

The sausages can be raw or pre-cooked; spicy, smoked, or fresh. As long as it tastes good with cheese and sauce on a crispy crust, it will make a great pizza topping.

Making Your Own Italian Sausage Pizza

Want to make your own Italian sausage pizza at home? Here are some tips:

Get good ingredients – Splurge on quality sausage, cheese, tomatoes, etc. for best flavor.
Cook sausage first – Browning the sausage in a skillet before topping the pizza prevents undercooking.
Grate cheese – Finely grated mozzarella melts evenly; freshly shredded is best.
Layer toppings – Don’t overload the pie; arrange toppings judiciously.
Use a pizza stone – Baking on a preheated stone makes a crisper crust.
Finish with fresh basil – Freshly torn basil adds color and brightness.

With excellent ingredients and sound technique, homemade Italian sausage pizza can rival your local pizzeria.

For inspiration, check out these delicious sausage-topped pizza recipes from food bloggers:

Buon appetito!

The Last Word on Italian Sausage Pizza

Italian sausage pizza has been a crowd-pleaser for ages, and it’s easy to see why. The spicy, succulent sausage packs tons of flavor and pairs perfectly with tangy tomato sauce, stretchy melted cheese, and a hot crust.

While Italian sausage leads the charge, chorizo, kielbasa, andouille, and other sausages can also make tasty pizza toppings. Just be sure to pre-cook the sausage and use high-quality ingredients for best results.

With a well-made dough, quality toppings, and sound baking technique, it’s possible to create unbelievable Italian sausage pizza in your own kitchen. Just don’t be surprised if your family and friends beg you to make it again and again.

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Italian Sausage Pizza FAQs

Sure! I like the fresh mozzarella because its less salty and not as greasy when baked. However, shredded low-moisture mozzarella would give you more of a classic pizzeria taste.

I like mild, but hot would be delicious, too. For reference, ½ pound of sausage is 2 to 3 links.

Nope. If you want to make your own, follow the links below in the recipe card. But if you don’t want to make your own, pick the best ones because the flavors on this pizza really stand out.

Yes, you really do. Since your pizza will only bake for 10 minutes or less, its important to precook the raw meat to prevent undercooking and the risk of food-borne illness.

what is italian sausage on pizza

Recipe: Easy Sausage Pizza

FAQ

What kind of Italian sausage is on pizza?

Consider options such as hot Italian sausage or sweet Italian sausage, depending on your preference for spiciness. To add unique flavors to your pizza, you can also experiment with other sausage varieties, like chicken or specialty sausages.

What is considered Italian sausage?

The main difference in Italian sausage when compared to other sausages is the seasoning. The particular ingredient that usually sets Italian sausage apart is fennel. This is a licorice scented herb that gives Italian sausage its unique taste that is different than other types of sausage.

Is pepperoni the same as Italian sausage?

Although it looks the part, pepperoni isn’t a traditional type of Italian cured sausage. Rather, it was invented by Italians who came to the United States in the early 20th century. In 1919, the pepperoni sausage first appeared in Lower Manhattan, New York City.

Do Italians put sausage on pizza?

The key ingredient of pizza alla salsiccia is Italian sausage. Savoury, spicy and a little sweet, Italian sausage on a pizza is absolutely divine. You can enjoy it simply with just a tomato base and cheese on top or you can add other extras like fennel, red onion and capsicum.