Sicilian-Style Sheet Pan Pizza with Sausage

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

For the Toppings:

1 1/2 cups pizza sauce or marinara sauce

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled

Olive oil for brushing the dough

Optional: grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, fresh basil or oregano for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.

Mix until a dough forms, then turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet (13×18 inches) with olive oil.

Shape the Dough:

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet.

Use your hands to stretch and press the dough evenly across the baking sheet, reaching the edges.

Assemble the Pizza:

Brush the dough lightly with olive oil.

Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.

Evenly distribute the cooked and crumbled sausage over the cheese.

Bake the Pizza:

Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Serve:

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.

Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil or oregano if desired.

This Sicilian-style sheet pan pizza is perfect for feeding a crowd or for a family dinner.

The thick, crispy crust, rich sauce, and savory sausage make it a satisfying and comforting meal.

Enjoy! Let me know if you have any questions or need further variations.