Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pizza blends contrasting flavors that complement one another beautifully. The hot sausage brings robust spice, while feta cheese adds tang and creaminess. The honey ties it all together with a touch of sweetness that enhances every bite. You’ll love how quick it is to make—perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. The ingredients are accessible, the process is straightforward, and the result tastes like something straight from a gourmet pizzeria.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Hot Italian Sausage: The star of this pizza. Its spicy flavor gives the dish its kick, balancing beautifully with the sweetness of honey. You can use mild sausage if you prefer less heat.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings a tangy, creamy texture that cuts through the spice of the sausage. It doesn’t melt completely, giving the pizza a delightful contrast of textures.
Honey: A drizzle of honey adds a luscious sweetness that pairs perfectly with the heat of the sausage. I tried it once with a chili-infused honey, and it took the flavor to another level.
Mozzarella Cheese: This creates the classic pizza stretch and richness. Its mild flavor acts as a canvas for the bolder ingredients.
Pizza Dough: Whether homemade or store-bought, a crisp, chewy crust is the foundation. I like to brush the edges with olive oil before baking for a golden finish.
Tomato Sauce: A light layer of sauce provides moisture and ties the toppings together without overpowering the honey and feta.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds sharpness and color, creating balance and depth in every bite.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but highly recommended if you enjoy an extra layer of heat.
Olive Oil: Used for brushing the crust and adding subtle richness.
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it inside to heat up—it helps achieve that crisp, pizzeria-style crust.
- Cook the sausage. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the hot Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles until fully cooked. Drain excess grease and set aside.
- Prepare the dough. Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into your desired shape. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet or hot pizza stone.
- Assemble the pizza. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving about an inch around the edges. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly across the surface.
- Add the toppings. Distribute the cooked sausage, crumbled feta, and sliced red onion.
- Bake the pizza. Place it in the oven and bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the crust turns golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Finish with honey. Once baked, drizzle honey generously over the top while the pizza is still hot. Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Slice and serve. Allow it to rest for a minute or two before slicing.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
- large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
- Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
- Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
- Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
- knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
- Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2–3 people generously or 4 as part of a meal. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and baking requires around 12–14 minutes. Altogether, you’ll have a hot, crispy, and flavor-packed pizza ready in under 30 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Honey Drizzle
Use chili-infused honey for an added layer of heat that complements the sausage beautifully.
Vegetarian Twist
Replace sausage with roasted red peppers, mushrooms, and olives for a meat-free yet flavorful alternative.
Cheese Swap
Try goat cheese or ricotta instead of feta for a creamier, milder profile.
Herb Infusion
Add fresh basil or oregano after baking for a fragrant, Mediterranean finish.
Caramelized Onions
Substitute raw onions with caramelized ones for a sweet-savory balance.
Thin Crust Option
Roll the dough thinner and bake directly on a stone for extra crispness.
BBQ Base
Use a barbecue sauce base instead of tomato for a smoky-sweet twist.
Greek Style
Add black olives and a sprinkle of oregano to enhance the feta’s Mediterranean flair.
Extra Crunch
Sprinkle cornmeal under the crust before baking for a rustic, crispy texture.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
Use a gluten-free pizza dough to make this recipe suitable for all guests.
FAQs
1. Can I use mild sausage instead of hot?
Yes, mild sausage works well if you prefer less heat.
2. What type of honey is best for this recipe?
A pure clover or wildflower honey provides a smooth sweetness. For spice lovers, chili honey is an excellent option.
3. Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
You can pre-cook the sausage and prepare the dough, but assemble just before baking for best results.
4. Is feta the only cheese option?
No, you can use goat cheese, ricotta, or even blue cheese for different flavor profiles.
5. How do I make the crust extra crispy?
Preheat a pizza stone and bake directly on it to achieve a crispier base.
6. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely. Store-bought dough saves time and works perfectly for this recipe.
7. What side dishes pair well with this pizza?
A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables balance the rich, spicy flavors.
8. Can I grill this pizza instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling adds a smoky touch. Pre-cook the crust slightly before adding toppings.
9. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Use less sauce and preheat your stone or baking sheet thoroughly.
10. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze slices in an airtight container for up to one month. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
This Hot Sausage, Feta & Honey Pizza is the perfect blend of fiery, tangy, and sweet—a flavor harmony that keeps you coming back for more. It’s an excellent choice for weeknights, parties, or when you simply crave something bold and satisfying. With a handful of everyday ingredients, you can create a pizzeria-worthy dish right in your kitchen. Try it once, and it might just replace your usual pizza order.
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