Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza Recipe
If you’re longing for a pizza that’s equal parts comforting and exciting, the Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza is about to become your new obsession. This pie is a celebration of bold flavors—savory turkey sausage, tender and slightly bitter broccoli rabe, creamy ricotta, and a trio of cheeses—all nestled on a perfectly crisp crust. It’s a recipe that feels both rustic and gourmet, and it’ll win over anyone craving something unique yet utterly satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a weekend family dinner or an impressive night in with friends, Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza is the delicious twist you didn’t know your pizza nights needed.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a mile-long list to make this showstopper. Each ingredient plays a starring role, bringing its own personality to the Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza—think juicy sausage, punchy greens, and melty cheese all working in harmony.
- Pizza dough (1 pound): The foundation of your pizza—go homemade for extra bragging rights, or grab a quality store-bought dough for convenience.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness to the crust and helps sauté the sausage and veggies to perfection.
- Turkey sausages (3, about 12 ounces, casings removed): Lean, flavorful, and the savory backbone of this pizza.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings a warm, aromatic kick that ties everything together.
- Broccoli rabe (1 bunch, trimmed and chopped): Slightly bitter and vibrant, it balances the richness and adds gorgeous color.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a gentle heat—totally customizable depending on your spice preference.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for brightening up the flavors of the toppings.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle earthiness and depth.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups): Brings that irresistible gooey melt factor.
- Ricotta cheese (1/2 cup): Creamy dollops give pockets of lusciousness in every bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Savory and nutty, it’s the finishing touch that brings it all home.
- Cornmeal or flour (for dusting): Keeps your dough from sticking and adds a pleasant crunch to the crust.
How to Make Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Kick things off by preheating your oven to a piping hot 475°F (245°C). If you’ve got a pizza stone, slide it in now—it’ll help you get that bakery-style crispiness. Roll or stretch your pizza dough into a 12-inch round on a surface dusted with flour or cornmeal. This step is all about setting up the perfect base for your Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey Sausage
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. After about 6–7 minutes, the sausage should be browned and cooked through. Remove it from the skillet and set aside—try not to sneak too many bites!
Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli Rabe
Using the same skillet (hello, easy cleanup!), add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant, then add your chopped broccoli rabe. Season with red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat, plus salt and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli rabe is wilted and tender—about 5 minutes. This combo will make your kitchen smell incredible.
Step 4: Build Your Pizza
Brush your stretched dough lightly with olive oil to encourage a golden, crispy crust. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly across the base, then top with the cooked sausage and sautéed broccoli rabe. Dot spoonfuls of ricotta over the top, and finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Your Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza is ready for the oven!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide your pizza onto the hot pizza stone or a baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling beautifully. The aroma will be irresistible, so don’t be surprised if everyone starts hovering around the kitchen.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Let the pizza cool for a minute before slicing—it helps the cheese set just enough for those dream-worthy slices. Serve your Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza piping hot for maximum enjoyment.
How to Serve Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can really elevate your Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza. For a little zing, try a few twists of cracked black pepper or a pinch of extra red pepper flakes right before serving.
Side Dishes
Pair this pizza with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon and olive oil, or serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A chilled glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with citrus would be a refreshing complement to the bold flavors of Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the pizza into rustic squares for a casual gathering or slice it into slim wedges for an appetizer platter. You can even serve mini Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza rounds as fun party bites—just use a biscuit cutter to shape the dough before baking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the pizza cool completely before storing so the crust stays as crisp as possible.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The pizza will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a quick meal or snack, you’ll be glad you saved a few slices!
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is bubbling again. You can also reheat slices on a skillet over medium heat to revive that crispy crust.
FAQs
Can I use regular sausage instead of turkey sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with pork or chicken sausage if that’s what you have on hand. The flavors will still shine, and the process remains the same—just be sure to cook the sausage thoroughly before adding it to your pizza.
Is there an alternative to broccoli rabe?
If broccoli rabe isn’t available or you prefer something milder, broccolini, spinach, or even kale make fantastic substitutes. Adjust cooking times as needed since these greens can wilt faster than broccoli rabe.
How do I make the crust extra crispy?
Using a preheated pizza stone is the best way to achieve a crispy crust. Dusting your surface with cornmeal instead of flour also adds crunch. Baking at a high temperature and not overloading your pizza with toppings will help, too.
Can I grill the pizza instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling is a fantastic way to add a smoky flavor and a beautifully charred crust to your Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza. Preheat your grill, prepare the dough as directed, and cook directly on the grates or on a grill-safe pan for about 5–7 minutes per side.
What’s the best way to serve this at a party?
Slice the pizza into small squares or wedges, and serve on a wooden board or platter with a bowl of extra Parmesan on the side. These bite-sized pieces are perfect for sharing and will disappear in no time!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about gathering around a homemade Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza, fresh from your oven and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a pizza aficionado or just looking to shake up your dinner routine, give this recipe a try—it’s sure to win you over, slice after slice.
Print
Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A savory Italian-American pizza featuring flavorful turkey sausage, tender broccoli rabe, and a blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses atop a crispy homemade or store-bought pizza dough. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner or weekend treat.
Ingredients
Pizza Base
- 1 pound pizza dough, homemade or store-bought
- cornmeal or flour for dusting
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Meat and Vegetables
- 3 turkey sausages (about 12 ounces), casings removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheeses
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up so it helps create a crispy crust.
- Prepare Dough: On a lightly floured surface or a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal, roll or stretch the pizza dough into a 12-inch round shape.
- Cook Turkey Sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage, breaking it into crumbles. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6–7 minutes, then remove the sausage and set aside.
- Sauté Broccoli Rabe: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the broccoli rabe, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the greens are wilted and tender, approximately 5 minutes.
- Assemble Pizza: Lightly brush the pizza dough with olive oil. Evenly spread shredded mozzarella cheese over the surface. Scatter the cooked turkey sausage and sautéed broccoli rabe over the mozzarella. Dot the pizza with spoonfuls of ricotta cheese, then sprinkle grated Parmesan on top.
- Bake: Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (onto the pizza stone if using) and bake for 12–15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool slightly, then slice and serve hot for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, blanch the broccoli rabe in boiling water for 1–2 minutes before sautéing.
- This pizza can also be cooked on a grill to add a smoky char to your crust and toppings.
- You can substitute turkey sausage with chicken sausage for a different twist.
- If you prefer a spicier pizza, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 840mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
