Next, gradually pour in the milk while whisking consistently. This helps avoid lumps and ensures a smooth gravy. Keep stirring until the mixture begins to thicken, which usually takes around 5-7 minutes. Be patient; the aroma of the rich gravy filling your kitchen is truly irresistible! Once it reaches your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Now, let’s assemble our pizza! If you’re using a store-bought crust, roll it out on a floured surface and transfer it to a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread a generous layer of the creamy sausage gravy over the crust in place of traditional pizza sauce, making sure to cover every corner. Then sprinkle a nice amount of shredded mozzarella over the gravy, as this is where you’ll get that delightful stretch and gooeyness once it bakes.
Finally, pop your pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The moment I take the pizza out of the oven, the smell is amazing, and I can hardly wait to slice my masterpiece! Right before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped green onions over the top for a pop of color and flavor.
Pro Tips for Best Results
To achieve the best flavor, I tested this recipe with different types of sausage. I found that a mix of spicy and mild sausage gives an incredible depth of flavor, but you can absolutely go with your favorites! Just remember to adjust the seasoning if you’re using a highly seasoned sausage.
One crucial tip I discovered along the way is to avoid over-baking the pizza. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes in the oven; you want that perfect golden-brown cheesiness without burning. The crust should also be crisp but not overly tough.
Lastly, don’t skimp on the toppings. The more cheese, the better! I’ve experimented with different cheeses, too, and I can tell you that adding sharp cheddar can really amp up the flavor profile. Just be careful not to overpower the delightful sausage gravy underneath!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I’ve made in the past was not allowing the sausage to brown enough. This step is crucial, as it develops a rich flavor that permeates throughout the gravy. So don’t rush this step; let the sausage get that beautiful golden hue!
Another pitfall is adding too much flour too quickly when making the gravy. Take it slow and whisk continuously to achieve the right texture. If you find it too thick, simply add a splash more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
A third mistake is being too stingy with the gravy on the pizza. It’s called sausage gravy pizza for a reason! Spread it evenly and generously for that perfect balance with the cheese.
Lastly, make sure your oven is properly preheated before putting your pizza in. A hot oven is essential for that lovely crisp crust. Otherwise, you might end up with a soggy bottom, and we definitely don’t want that!