Name: Sheet Pan Pizza with Sausage and Mozzarella Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 pounds ground sweet or mild Italian sausage; 16 ounces pizza dough; 1 tablespoon cornmeal for the pan; 1 cup pizza sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

If you are craving a pizza that’s both incredibly easy to make and irresistibly delicious, this Sheet Pan Pizza with Sausage and Mozzarella Recipe is the one to try next. Ready in just 35 minutes, it transforms humble ingredients into a bubbly, golden masterpiece perfect for feeding the whole family. Using savory Italian sausage and melty mozzarella on a crisp sheet pan crust, this dish offers a comforting yet vibrant flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s super versatile, making it an ideal go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows five items laid out on a wooden surface. In the center, there is a white plate with a rectangular layer of bright red ground meat mixed with small bits of fat or seasoning. Above the plate, there are two white bowls, one filled with bright red tomato sauce and the other with a large pile of shredded pale yellow cheese with a soft texture. Below and to the left of the plate, there is a ball of smooth, pale dough resting on brown parchment paper. Below and to the right of the plate, there are two small white bowls, one containing a pale yellow powder, likely a seasoning, and the other with a clear, light yellow oil. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for a handful of simple but essential ingredients that come together beautifully to create a perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. Each element plays its part—from the rich, hearty sausage to the smooth stretch of mozzarella cheese—giving you that classic pizza feel without any fuss.

2 Tablespoons olive oil divided: Olive oil adds moisture and helps the dough brown beautifully while keeping the sausage juicy.
3/4 pounds ground sweet or mild Italian sausage: This adds a savory, slightly spiced punch that’s the heart of the pizza.
16 ounces pizza dough: A soft but sturdy base that crisps in the oven, holding all the toppings perfectly.
1 Tablespoon cornmeal for the pan: Sprinkling cornmeal helps prevent sticking and adds a delightful crunch to the crust’s underside.
1 cup pizza sauce: Rich and tangy, the sauce ties all the flavors together with a vibrant tomato goodness.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided: Melty, creamy mozzarella creates that irresistible gooey texture and golden finish that you love on any pizza.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Sheet Pan Pizza with Sausage and Mozzarella Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it into small, bite-sized pieces as it cooks. Stir frequently until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside. This step ensures that your pizza topping is flavorful and not greasy.

Step 2: Prepare the Sheet Pan

Grease a 13×9-inch sheet pan with the remaining olive oil to prevent sticking. Then sprinkle an even layer of cornmeal across the surface. This little trick is what gives the crust a subtle crunch on the bottom and makes it easy to slide the pizza out once it’s ready.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough gently, then stretch it carefully to fit the size of your sheet pan. It’s okay if the dough pushes back a little at first — just let it rest for five minutes and try again. Patience here means a perfectly even crust without tears, so take your time.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to keep the crust intact during baking. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella over the sauce — this layer acts as a gooey barrier to keep the sausages juicy and flavors well integrated.

Step 5: Layer Sausage and Cheese

Scatter the cooked sausage evenly across the cheese layer, making sure every slice will have a satisfying bite. Then, top it all off with the remaining mozzarella cheese for that iconic melty, golden finish.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Place your sheet pan pizza in the preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for bubbly, lightly browned cheese and a crust that’s cooked through with a slight crisp. Once out of the oven, allow the pizza to cool for about five minutes — this resting period helps the cheese set just enough to get perfect slices without making a mess.

How to Serve Sheet Pan Pizza with Sausage and Mozzarella Recipe

The first image shows a pan filled with cooked ground meat, brown and crumbly in texture, sitting on a white marbled surface with a blue and white cloth beside it. The second image features a woman's hand rolling out a light tan dough rectangle with a wooden rolling pin on the same white marbled surface. The third image displays a rectangular white baking dish with three clear layers: the bottom is covered with a red tomato sauce, the middle has a layer of cooked ground meat similar to the first image, and the top is sprinkled with shredded cheese that is pale yellow and light brown; the dish rests on the white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a fresh burst, consider sprinkling chopped fresh basil or oregano on top right before serving. A drizzle of chili oil or balsamic glaze can also elevate the flavors and add a fancy twist. These little garnishes make the dish feel extra special with minimal effort.

Side Dishes

This pizza goes wonderfully with a crisp green salad, perhaps with a tangy lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted veggies or a simple garlic bread can also round out the meal, keeping things balanced and satisfying for everyone at the table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun and casual vibe, slice the pizza into small squares and serve on a wooden board or platter, perfect for sharing. You could also pair it with dipping sauces like ranch or marinara for added fun, especially if kids are joining in. Presentation can make all the difference in making your Sheet Pan Pizza with Sausage and Mozzarella Recipe feel like a celebration.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover pizza, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This keeps the crust from getting soggy and maintains the flavor integrity of the sausage and cheese.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover sheet pan pizza slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Freezing is a great way to keep this delicious meal ready for quick reheating on busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pizza on a baking sheet in a 375°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Alternatively, reheating in a skillet over low heat helps keep the crust crisp without drying out the toppings.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While Italian sausage is recommended for its classic flavor, you can switch in spicy chorizo, turkey sausage, or even a vegetarian substitute to customize the pizza to your tastes.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply choose a gluten-free pizza dough and follow the same instructions. Keep in mind that cook time may vary slightly depending on the dough brand.

Can I prepare the pizza ahead of time before baking?

You can assemble the pizza and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. This method lets the flavors meld and makes dinnertime super easy.

What if I don’t have a sheet pan?

A rimmed baking sheet or pizza stone works just as well. Adjust the dough size accordingly to fit your pan or stone for the best results.

How do I get a crispier crust?

Use cornmeal on the pan as described and consider preheating the oven fully before baking. You can also place the sheet pan on the lowest rack to encourage bottom heat that crisps the crust beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Sheet Pan Pizza with Sausage and Mozzarella Recipe has all the charm of homemade pizza with none of the hassle, making it a cherished addition to your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a quick, comforting dinner, it delivers every time with its rich, melty goodness and perfectly crisp crust. Go ahead and give it a try — I promise it will quickly become a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again!

Sheet Pan Pizza with Sausage and Mozzarella Recipe

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4.2 from 14 reviews

This Sheet Pan Pizza recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy homemade pizza with minimal effort. Using store-bought dough and sauce speeds up the process, creating a delicious and satisfying meal ready in just 35 minutes. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 to 6 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Meat

3/4 pounds ground sweet or mild Italian sausage

Dough & Base

16 ounces pizza dough
1 tablespoon cornmeal for the pan
1 cup pizza sauce

Cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

Other

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the pizza evenly.
Cook Sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces. Cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
Prepare Pan: Grease a 13×9-inch sheet pan with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle an even layer of cornmeal over the pan to prevent the dough from sticking.
Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough and gently stretch it to fit the sheet pan. If it resists stretching, allow it to rest for 5 minutes before trying again.
Assemble Pizza: Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then layer the cooked sausage evenly on top. Finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden and the crust is fully cooked.
Cool and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve and enjoy your delicious sheet pan pizza!

Notes

Store leftover sheet pan pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Use store-bought dough and sauce to save time without sacrificing flavor.
You can substitute Italian sausage with other toppings like pepperoni or vegetables for variation.
Letting the dough rest if it’s difficult to stretch helps prevent it from snapping back.