Prep time: 20 mins | Cook time: 15–20 mins | Servings: 12–15 squares
Ingredients
- The Crust:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour.
- 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast.
- 1 cup warm water and 2 tbsp vegetable oil.
- 1 tbsp sugar and 1 tsp salt.
- The Toppings:
- 1 lb ground pork sausage (browned and crumbled).
- 1.5 cups pizza sauce or mild marinara.
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella or a mozzarella-cheddar blend.
- Dried parsley for that classic look.
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in the oil, salt, and flour until a soft dough forms.
- Rise: Knead the dough slightly, then cover and let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes.
- Shape: Press the dough evenly into a large, greased rimmed baking sheet (half-sheet pan) to get that iconic rectangular shape.
- Sauce and Meat: Spread a thin, even layer of pizza sauce over the dough. Evenly distribute the browned sausage crumbles over the sauce.
- Cheese it Up: Generously cover the entire surface with the shredded cheese.
- Bake: Place in a preheated oven at 425°F for 15–20 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned in spots.
- Slice: Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the pizza into the traditional rectangular squares. Finish with a sprinkle of dried parsley.