Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza Recipe
Let me introduce you to a weeknight masterpiece that’s bursting with color, flavor, and wholesome comfort: Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza. This recipe has earned a cherished spot in my kitchen with its perfect balance of savory turkey sausage, tender-crisp broccoli rabe, and gooey cheeses all nestled atop a golden, rustic crust. Every bite brings together the peppery kick of broccoli rabe and the richness of sausage, creating a pie that feels both fresh and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for pizza night with the family or want to impress friends with something just a bit different, this Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza is guaranteed to delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this pizza is in its simple, honest ingredients—each one essential for creating irresistible flavor and texture. There’s nothing complicated here, but every element plays a starring role, from the chewy dough to the garlicky greens.
- Pizza dough (1 pound): Whether you make it yourself or pick up a ball from the store, this is the delicious foundation of your Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A drizzle of olive oil ensures your sausage browns beautifully and boosts the flavor of every topping.
- Turkey sausage (8 ounces, casings removed): Lean and packed with flavor, turkey sausage gives this pizza a savory, lighter twist.
- Broccoli rabe (1 bunch, trimmed and chopped): Its slightly bitter, peppery taste is the ultimate green topping, adding brightness and bite.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Garlic amps up the aroma and infuses every slice with irresistible depth.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a gentle hint of heat that plays well against the sausage and cheese.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melty and mild, mozzarella brings the whole pie together in cheesy harmony.
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated): A finishing touch of salty, nutty flavor that’s truly essential for that pizza parlor vibe.
- Cornmeal or flour (for dusting): Keeps your dough from sticking and creates a lovely, crisp base.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): A few pinches pull all the flavors into focus and let each ingredient shine.
How to Make Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza
Step 1: Heat Your Oven and Prep the Stone
Start by cranking your oven up to 475°F to get it piping hot. Slide a pizza stone or an upside-down baking sheet onto the middle rack. Preheating the surface helps your pizza crust turn crisp and golden, giving you that irresistible texture every time.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey Sausage
In a skillet set over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and add your turkey sausage (with the casings removed). Break it up with a spoon and sauté until the sausage is browned and cooked through. This ensures every bite of Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza is bursting with savory flavor. Remove the sausage to a plate and set it aside for now.
Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli Rabe and Garlic
Using the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and, if you like a little fire, the crushed red pepper flakes. Give them a quick stir, then add your chopped broccoli rabe. Sauté for about 4 or 5 minutes, just until the greens are tender and vibrantly green. Season with a sensible dash of salt and pepper to bring everything together.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll your pizza dough out to about 12 inches in diameter. Don’t worry about making it perfectly round—rustic is beautiful! Lay the dough onto a sheet of parchment dusted with cornmeal or flour. This little trick helps you transfer your Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza to the oven without any stress.
Step 5: Top the Pizza
Now, let’s build your masterpiece! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the dough, followed by the cooked turkey sausage and your garlicky broccoli rabe. Finish with a generous shower of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Every layer adds something special to this savory pizza.
Step 6: Bake and Enjoy
Carefully transfer the parchment (with the pizza on it) onto the hot stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbling. Let your Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps all those wonderful toppings settle, ensuring every bite is absolute perfection.
How to Serve Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil or Italian parsley adds beautiful green flecks and a touch of herbal brightness. For a little zing, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a shower of crushed red pepper right before serving takes this Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza to another level.
Side Dishes
Pair your pizza with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon or a tangy vinaigrette. Some lightly roasted tomatoes or a crisp slaw also work wonders to balance the rich, savory toppings of your Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your pizza into narrow strips for a fun appetizer at gatherings, or serve individual pies if you’re hosting a pizza night. A wooden board or a large platter adds an Italian touch, letting the colors and textures of the Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza shine.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have slices left over, let them cool completely before wrapping in foil or placing in an airtight container. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator, where they’ll taste great for up to three days.
Freezing
To freeze, cool the pizza and separate the slices with parchment paper. Wrap tightly or seal in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to two months—great for quick lunches or dinner emergencies!
Reheating
To reheat, pop the slices on a baking sheet in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes. This brings back the crispness of the crust and keeps the cheese nice and melty. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to make the crust chewy.
FAQs
Can I use regular sausage instead of turkey sausage?
Absolutely! While turkey sausage offers a lighter option, any good-quality sausage will work. Just be sure to remove the casings and cook it thoroughly before adding it to your Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza.
Is there a good substitute for broccoli rabe?
Definitely—if you prefer a milder green, try broccolini or even spinach. Both will give your Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza a beautiful color and texture, but with less of the signature bitter bite.
Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the traditional dough for your favorite gluten-free pizza dough. All the toppings for Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza are naturally gluten-free, so you won’t miss a thing.
Do I have to use a pizza stone?
Not at all. A preheated baking sheet works wonderfully to achieve a crisp crust. Whether you use a stone or a sheet, just remember to get it really hot before baking your Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza.
How do I mellow the bitterness of broccoli rabe?
For a gentler flavor, blanch the chopped broccoli rabe in boiling water for 1–2 minutes, then drain and sauté as directed. This helps tone down the bitterness while keeping the greens vibrant for your Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try making this Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza—it’s just the right blend of hearty, fresh, and irresistibly cheesy. Whether for your next pizza night or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite at your table!
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Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 1 pizza (about 4 servings) 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pizza is a delicious twist on a classic favorite, featuring savory turkey sausage, vibrant broccoli rabe, and gooey cheese on a crispy crust. Perfect for a cozy night in or a casual get-together with friends!
Ingredients
Pizza Dough:
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Turkey Sausage:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces turkey sausage (casings removed)
Broccoli Rabe Topping:
- 1 bunch broccoli rabe (trimmed and chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese and Seasoning:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cornmeal or flour (for dusting)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 475°F and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- Cook the Turkey Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Cook the turkey sausage until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
- Sauté the Broccoli Rabe: In the same skillet, add garlic and red pepper flakes. Add broccoli rabe and sauté until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Pizza: Stretch or roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface. Top with mozzarella, cooked sausage, broccoli rabe, and Parmesan.
- Bake: Transfer the pizza to a preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool slightly, slice, and enjoy!
Notes
- Blanching the broccoli rabe briefly before sautéing can help reduce bitterness.
- You can swap broccoli rabe with broccolini or spinach for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/4 of pizza)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
