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To make this tasty pizza, gather these key ingredients: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar - 1 tablespoon active dry yeast - 1 teaspoon fine salt - 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil - ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F) - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped - 1 cup Italian sausage, crumbled - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - ½ teaspoon onion powder - Salt and black pepper to taste - A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) These ingredients work together to create a rich and creamy pizza that you will love. You can add extra flavors to your pizza with these optional ingredients: - Fresh basil or parsley for garnish - Crushed red pepper for added heat - Sliced olives for a briny touch - Artichoke hearts for a unique twist These options let you customize your pizza to fit your taste. If you need to convert measurements, here are some handy tips: - 1 cup = 16 tablespoons - 1 tablespoon = 3 teaspoons - 1 teaspoon = 5 milliliters These conversions are useful when you want to scale your recipe up or down. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps to create this delicious dish! To start, I mix warm water with sugar and yeast. I let it sit for 5 minutes. It should get frothy. This shows the yeast is alive. Next, I add flour, fine salt, and olive oil to the yeast mix. I stir it until a dough forms. Then, I knead the dough on a floured surface. I knead for about 5-7 minutes until it feels smooth. After that, I put it in a greased bowl and cover it. I let it rise for 1 hour in a warm spot until it's double the size. While the dough rises, I cook the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. I break it into small pieces as it cooks. It takes about 5-7 minutes for it to brown. Once done, I drain any fat and set it aside. Then, I make the cheese mixture. I combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. I mix it well. Next, I add the cooked sausage and chopped spinach. I fold them in gently until everything blends. After the dough rises, I punch it down and roll it out. I want it to fit my 12-inch deep-dish pan. I press the dough into the pan, covering the bottom and sides. Then, I spread the cheese and sausage mixture on top. I cover the pizza with a clean cloth and let it rise for 15-20 minutes. This step helps the crust get fluffy. After rising, I preheat my oven to 425°F. I bake the pizza for 25-30 minutes. It should be golden brown, and the cheese should bubble. Finally, I let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your delicious creation from the Full Recipe! To make the best pizza dough, start with fresh yeast. Mix warm water with sugar and yeast. Let it sit until it bubbles. This shows the yeast is active. Use all-purpose flour for a great texture. Knead the dough well for 5-7 minutes. This builds gluten, which gives the dough strength. After kneading, let it rise in a warm place. It should double in size. For the cheese mixture, combine ricotta and mozzarella for creaminess. Add grated Parmesan for a sharp kick. Mixing in garlic powder and onion powder enhances the flavor. Don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper. If you enjoy heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice touch. Lastly, fold in cooked sausage and fresh spinach. This creates a rich and tasty filling. Preheat your oven to 425°F for the best results. Bake the pizza for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling cheese. If the edges brown too fast, cover them with foil. Once baked, let the pizza cool for 5 minutes. This helps with slicing and keeps the toppings in place. Follow these tips for a perfect Sausage & Spinach White Deep Dish Pizza every time! For the detailed recipe, check the Full Recipe section. {{image_4}} You can change up your pizza easily. Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or artichokes. These toppings bring new flavors and textures. If you're feeling adventurous, use different meats like chicken or bacon. You can even add fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a pop of flavor. To make this pizza gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend. Many brands offer good substitutes that work well in pizza. For a dairy-free option, swap ricotta and mozzarella for vegan cheese. You can also use cashew cream as a great substitute for ricotta. Mixing cheeses can create a wonderful taste. Try adding goat cheese for tang or Gouda for a smoky flavor. Blend different cheeses to discover your favorite mix. I often use a mix of mozzarella and fontina for a creamy, rich taste. This adds depth and makes each bite exciting. For the full recipe, check the details above! To keep your leftover pizza fresh, let it cool first. Once cooled, slice the pizza. Use an airtight container or wrap the slices in plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This method helps preserve flavor and texture. For the best taste, reheat slices in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Place the slices on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the crust crispy and the cheese melty. You can also use a skillet. Heat the skillet on medium. Add a drop of olive oil and place the slice in. Cover it with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. If you want to save pizza for later, freezing is a great choice. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above for the best results. You’ll enjoy that fresh taste again! It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to make this pizza. This includes 20 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes to bake. You will need to allow time for the dough to rise, which is about 1 hour and an additional 15-20 minutes after assembling. Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough. It is a great time saver. Just roll it out to fit your deep dish pan. Follow the same steps for the filling and baking. You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as a substitute for ricotta cheese. Both options will give you a creamy texture. You can also blend cottage cheese to make it smooth if you prefer. Yes, this pizza is great for meal prep. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat slices in the oven or microwave when you're ready to eat. For the best taste, enjoy it fresh! For the full recipe, check out the details above. You learned how to make a flavorful sausage and spinach white deep dish pizza. We covered key ingredients, preparation steps, and expert tips for perfect results. Remember, you can customize toppings and adjust for dietary needs. Storing and reheating leftovers also keeps your pizza fresh. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make this dish your own. Happy cooking!

Sausage & Spinach White Deep Dish Pizza

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Savory Sausage & Spinach White Deep Dish Pizza! Learn how to make a delicious, crispy crust filled with a creamy cheese and sausage mixture, topped with fresh spinach. This recipe is perfect for pizza night or any gathering. Click to explore the step-by-step guide and whip up this mouthwatering dish that everyone will love! Your kitchen adventure awaits!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon granulated sugar

1 tablespoon active dry yeast

1 teaspoon fine salt

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

¾ cup warm water (approximately 110°F)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped

1 cup Italian sausage, crumbled (casings removed)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water with the sugar and active dry yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbles form on the surface.

    Knead the Dough: Add the flour, fine salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a cohesive dough begins to form. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.

      First Rise: Lightly grease a clean bowl with olive oil and place the kneaded dough inside. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

        Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

          Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, add the crumbled Italian sausage. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, making sure to crumble it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside.

            Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are evenly blended. Gently fold in the cooked sausage and the chopped spinach until fully incorporated.

              Assemble the Pizza: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, then roll it out on a floured surface to fit a deep-dish pizza pan (about 12 inches in diameter). Carefully press the dough into the pan, making sure it covers the bottom and extends up the sides.

                Add the Filling: Evenly spread the cheese and sausage mixture over the dough, ensuring a generous layer across the surface.

                  Second Rise: Cover the assembled pizza with a clean cloth and allow it to rise for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will give the crust a bit more height and fluffiness.

                    Bake: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned on top.

                      Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This will make slicing easier and less messy. Cut into wedges and serve.

                        Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                          - Presentation Tips: Serve the pizza warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant touch. For an extra flavor boost, consider drizzling a little olive oil over the top just before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!