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Do You Cook Sausage Before Adding to Pizza

Do You Cook Sausage Before Adding to Pizza?

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Last Updated on June 30, 2023 by Lauren Beck

I’ve had my fair share of sausage-topped pies as a seasoned pizza enthusiast. One question often arises is whether you should cook sausage before adding it to pizza. 

In this article, we’ll embark on a flavorful journey, exploring the merits of precooking sausage versus placing it raw on the pizza. Prepare your taste buds for a delectable adventure!

Do You Cook Sausage Before Adding It to Pizza?

Cooking sausage before adding it to pizza is optional. It can be cooked beforehand for even cooking and grease control, or you can choose to put raw sausage directly on the pizza and let it cook in the oven along with the pizza.

Reasons for Precooking Sausage

While it is not necessary to precook sausage before putting it on pizza, there are a few reasons why you might want to consider it:

  • Even Cooking: Precooking sausage ensures that it cooks evenly on the pizza. Raw sausage has a higher moisture content, which can result in uneven cooking and a greasier pizza.
  • Grease Control: Precooking sausage allows you to drain off excess grease. This helps prevent your pizza from becoming soggy or overly greasy.
  • Time Management: By precooking the sausage, you can reduce the overall cooking time of your pizza. This is especially beneficial if you’re using other ingredients requiring less cooking time.

How To Cook Sausage Before Putting It On Pizza?

If you choose to precook the sausage before adding it to your pizza, here’s a simple method to follow:

  1. Remove the sausage from its casing, if applicable. This will help it cook more evenly and blend well with the other pizza toppings.
  2. Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil if necessary.
  3. Place the sausage in the pan and break it into smaller pieces with a spatula or wooden spoon.
  4. Cook the sausage, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the sausage.
  5. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess grease.

How to Make Sausage for Pizza Toppings

Close Up Image of Hawaiian Pizza Sausage

If you prefer to make your own sausage specifically for pizza toppings, here’s a basic recipe to try:

  1. In a bowl, combine ground meat (such as pork or a mixture of pork and beef), spices (such as fennel seeds, paprika, garlic powder, and salt), and any desired additional ingredients (such as chopped onions or herbs).
  2. Mix the ingredients together until well combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into small patties or form it into crumbles.
  4. Cook the sausage in a skillet or frying pan until browned and cooked through.

What Types of Sausage You Can Use for Pizza Toppings?

When it comes to sausage toppings for pizza, the options are plentiful. Here are a few popular choices:

Related Posts:

  • Italian Sausage: The classic choice for pizza, Italian sausage comes in sweet and spicy varieties. It adds a flavorful punch to your pizza.
  • Breakfast Sausage: If you enjoy a breakfast-inspired pizza, breakfast sausage is a fantastic choice. Its savory and slightly sweet flavor pairs well with eggs and cheese.
  • Chorizo [1]: For those who prefer a spicy kick, chorizo is an excellent option. Its robust and smoky flavor can elevate your pizza to new heights.

Can You Put Raw Sausage on Pizza in Oven?

You can put raw sausage on a pizza before baking it in the oven. The sausage will cook alongside the pizza as it bakes. 

However, remember that raw sausage releases grease during cooking, which may result in a greasier pizza.

How to Cook Pizza With Raw Sausage?

If you choose to use raw sausage on your pizza, follow these steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature for baking the pizza.
  2. Spread the raw sausage directly onto the pizza dough, ensuring even distribution.
  3. Add your desired pizza sauce and other toppings.
  4. Bake the pizza according to the recipe or package instructions or until the crust is golden brown and the sausage is cooked through.

Conclusion

When it comes to sausage on pizza, the choice of cooking it beforehand or placing it raw is a matter of personal preference. Precooking sausage ensures even cooking and better grease control, while using raw sausage offers a different texture and flavor. 

As a pizza lover myself, I encourage you to experiment with both methods and discover your preferred approach. Whichever route you take, the result will undoubtedly be a mouthwatering pizza experience that satisfies your cravings and tantalizes your taste buds. 

So, grab that pizza dough, embrace your culinary creativity, and enjoy the deliciousness of the sausage-topped pizza.

Reference:

  1. https://www.epicurious.com/ingredients/what-is-chorizo-and-how-to-use-the-spicy-sausage-article
Lauren Beck
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