White pizza with sausage combines savory, juicy turkey sausage with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a crisp yet tender crust. Crowned with vibrant red peppers, sweet onions, and a fresh pop of arugula, this pizza has everything you’re craving in a single slice. It’s colorful, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
This recipe was inspired by my love of homemade white pizza but with a healthy twist. By swapping traditional pork sausage for hot Italian turkey sausage and using a whole wheat crust, this version feels indulgent while staying lighter. It’s similar to my other quick white pizza recipes, but the addition of arugula and bold spices takes it to the next level. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to keep it on rotation!
Why This White Pizza with Sausage Is So Irresistible
- Bold flavors: The spicy turkey sausage balanced by creamy ricotta and fresh veggies is unbeatable.
- Quick and simple: Just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for weeknights.
- A healthy twist: Reduced-fat ricotta and whole wheat crust keep it lighter without sacrificing flavor.
- Customizable: Swap toppings to suit your family’s tastes or adapt it seasonally!
Essential Ingredients for Perfect White Pizza with Sausage
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what makes it shine:
- Hot Italian turkey sausage: Leaner than pork but just as flavorful. If you prefer milder heat, swap it for sweet Italian turkey sausage.
- Reduced-fat ricotta cheese: Provides that luscious, creamy base without being too heavy. Full-fat ricotta also works if you don’t mind the extra richness.
- Whole wheat pizza crust: Adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. If gluten-free is your preference, a cauliflower crust would also complement this recipe beautifully.
- Fresh arugula: A final topping of peppery greens adds freshness and brightness. Baby spinach makes a great alternative if desired.
White Pizza with Sausage at a Glance
- Servings: 6 servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
White Pizza with Sausage Ingredients
- 2 hot Italian turkey sausage links, casings removed
- 1 cup reduced-fat ricotta cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 prebaked 12-inch thin whole wheat pizza crust
- 1 medium sweet red pepper, julienned
- 1 small onion, halved and thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups arugula or baby spinach
How to Make White Pizza with Sausage
- Preheat your oven to 450°F. Place a rack in the lower third of the oven for even baking.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the turkey sausage and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until no longer pink (about 4-6 minutes). Set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with garlic powder. Stir until smooth and evenly seasoned.
- Place the prebaked pizza crust onto a baking sheet. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Top the pizza with the cooked sausage, red pepper slices, and onion. Sprinkle with the Italian seasoning, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’d like some heat.
- Finish the toppings with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake on the lower oven rack for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the crust are lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh arugula. Slice and serve warm!
Expert Tips for the Best White Pizza with Sausage
- Preheat your oven: A hot oven ensures a crispy crust and evenly melted cheese.
- Don’t overload toppings: Too many toppings can make the crust soggy. Stick to the suggested amounts.
- Use fresh mozzarella: For an extra creamy and bubbly finish, swap shredded mozzarella for fresh, sliced mozzarella.
- Prep ahead: Cook the sausage and slice the veggies earlier in the day for faster assembly at dinnertime.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers on a baking sheet at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to bring the crust back to life.
Delicious White Pizza with Sausage Variations
- Mediterranean twist: Add a handful of kalamata olives and a sprinkle of feta cheese before baking.
- Vegetarian option: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or roasted eggplant for a hearty, meat-free version.
- Gluten-free: Use a cauliflower or gluten-free crust to suit dietary needs.
- Seasonal toppings: Try roasted butternut squash in the fall or fresh cherry tomatoes in the summer for a seasonal spin.
White Pizza with Sausage FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Sweet Italian turkey sausage or even chicken sausage works perfectly in this recipe.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Wrap individual slices in aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
You can prepare the sausage and slice the vegetables ahead. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.
What other cheeses can I use?
Try a blend of mozzarella and provolone or even add a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor.
This white pizza with sausage has quickly become one of my family’s most requested recipes. With its bold flavors, lightened-up ingredients, and quick prep time, it’s easy to see why! What toppings do you love on your pizza? Let me know in the comments below—I’d love to hear your ideas!
White Pizza with Sausage: Your New Favorite Easy Dinner
Ingredients
- 2 hot Italian turkey sausage links casings removed
- 1 cup reduced-fat ricotta cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 prebaked 12-inch thin whole wheat pizza crust
- 1 medium sweet red pepper julienned
- 1 small onion halved and thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups arugula or baby spinach
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F. Place a rack in the lower third of the oven for even baking.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the turkey sausage and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until no longer pink (about 4-6 minutes). Set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with garlic powder. Stir until smooth and evenly seasoned.
- Place the prebaked pizza crust onto a baking sheet. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Top the pizza with the cooked sausage, red pepper slices, and onion. Sprinkle with the Italian seasoning, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’d like some heat.
- Finish the toppings with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake on the lower oven rack for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the crust are lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh arugula. Slice and serve warm!
