Spicy Sausage and Roast Red Pepper Focaccia Pizza

Spicy Sausage and Roast Red Pepper Focaccia Pizza

Indulge in a flavor-packed experience with this Spicy Sausage and Roast Red Pepper Focaccia Pizza, a delightful twist on traditional pizza. The foundation is a wonderfully airy and soft focaccia bread, providing an excellent base for rich toppings. It's crowned with savory, crumbled spicy Italian sausage, sweet and smoky roasted red peppers, and a generous layer of melted mozzarella cheese. Fresh oregano adds an aromatic touch, while a drizzle of chili-infused olive oil introduces a pleasant kick, harmonizing the flavors of heat, sweetness, and savory notes. This focaccia pizza offers a fantastic combination of textures, from the slightly crisp edges of the bread to the tender, juicy toppings, making it an ideal choice for a casual weeknight meal or an impressive appetizer for gatherings. Its rustic charm and bold taste make it a memorable dish that is surprisingly straightforward to prepare.

Preparation time
20 min
Cooking time
25 min
Total time
45 min
Servings
4

Instructions

Preparation

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper if your focaccia is not already on a suitable baking surface.
  2. 2In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the crumbled spicy Italian sausage (casings removed) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
  3. 3In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil with the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). This will be your chili-infused olive oil.

Assembly and Baking

  1. 1Place the focaccia bread on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush the surface of the focaccia with a portion of the chili-infused olive oil.
  2. 2Evenly sprinkle the cooked spicy sausage over the focaccia. Distribute the chopped roasted red peppers next.
  3. 3Top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  4. 4Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the focaccia edges are golden brown and slightly crispy.
  5. 5Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped oregano and drizzle with the remaining chili-infused olive oil. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories
751 kcal
Protein
35 g
Fat
45 g
Carbs
50 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories751 kcal
Protein35 g
Fat45 g
Carbs50 g

Tips

  • For a richer flavor, consider using pre-made focaccia from an Italian deli. You can also make your own focaccia ahead of time.
  • Keep an eye on the edges of the focaccia to prevent over-browning; you want it golden and slightly crisp, not burnt.
  • A sprinkle of Kalamata olives or a handful of fresh arugula just before serving can add an extra layer of flavor and color.

By Chef Michael Ilin