Italian Sausage and Roasted Red Pepper Pizza
The fennel and garlic in Italian sausage harmonize with the caramelized natural sugars in roasted red peppers, while the pepper sweetness cuts through the fat richness of the sausage.
Sausage and roasted red pepper is a hearty, crowd-pleasing combination that brings robust Italian-American flavor to pizza. Crumbled Italian sausage renders its fat and spices into the cheese as it bakes, while strips of charred, sweet roasted red pepper add a smoky sweetness and silky texture. The pairing works equally well with hot or sweet sausage varieties and is a natural fit for classic red sauce pizzas.
How they taste together
- Italian Sausage (savory, herby, spicy): Fennel-spiced Italian sausage adds a hearty, aromatic richness to any pizza.
- Roasted Red Pepper (sweet, smoky, fresh): Sweet, smoky roasted red peppers add vibrant color and a charred, velvety sweetness.
Best Sauces for This Pairing
Pizzas with This Combo
The Meatball Sub
San Marzano Red Sauce
“Everything you love about a meatball sub, flattened into pizza form.”
Pesto Sausage Fennel
Classic Basil Pesto
“Sweet Italian sausage meets shaved fennel and roasted peppers on a pesto base.”
Vodka Sausage Pepper
Vodka Cream Sauce
“A sausage and peppers hero sandwich reimagined on a vodka cream pizza.”
Smoked Mozzarella Supreme
San Marzano Red Sauce
“This bold and meaty pizza starts with San Marzano Red sauce and tops it with Smoked Mozzarella, Roasted Red Pepper, Italian Sausage, and Fresh Basil, delivering a crowd-pleasing experience suited to year-round enjoyment.”
Calabrian Smoked Sausage
Calabrian Chili Oil Base
“Calabrian Chili Oil sauce meets Smoked Mozzarella, Italian Sausage, Roasted Red Pepper, and Oregano in this rustic, bold and meaty pizza. A standout choice for any occasion.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use hot or sweet Italian sausage?
Sweet Italian sausage pairs more harmoniously with the sweetness of roasted peppers, but hot sausage adds an exciting contrast. Try a mix of both for the best of both worlds.
Can I use jarred roasted peppers?
Jarred roasted peppers work fine. Pat them dry thoroughly before adding to the pizza to prevent excess moisture from affecting the crust.