The moment the sweet aroma of roasted butternut squash mingles with the spicy undertones of sausage in my kitchen, I know I’m in for something extraordinary. This Butternut Squash, Brussels, Spicy Sausage, and Ricotta Pizza brings together vibrant flavors and textures that transform your average pizza night into a gourmet experience.
After a recent potluck where my neighbor introduced me to the wonders of seasonal ingredients, I couldn’t shake the idea of a pizza that celebrates the best of fall produce. With a crispy, golden crust cradling layers of creamy ricotta, earthy Brussels sprouts, and herby sage, each bite is a warm embrace for your taste buds.
But what makes this dish truly special is its unmistakable ease; while it sounds fancy, it can effortlessly fit into your busy weeknight routine. So let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe, proving that homemade comfort food can be both satisfying and sublime!
Why is Butternut Squash, Brussels, Spicy Sausage, and Ricotta Pizza a must-try?
Unique Flavor Combination: The sweet butternut squash pairs perfectly with zesty sausage, creating a balanced bite.
Seasonal Appeal: Celebrate fall’s harvest with fresh, vibrant ingredients that will delight your senses.
Easy to Make: With simple steps, even novice cooks will impress family and friends.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve it at gatherings and watch it disappear—everyone loves this gourmet twist on pizza!
Versatile Toppings: Customize with your favorite veggies or herbs for endless variations!
For more inspiring pizza ideas, check out our guide on 7 Must-Try Homemade Pizzas.
Butternut Squash Pizza Ingredients
For the Dough
• Warm water – Acts as the base to activate the yeast, ensuring a good rise.
• Active dry yeast – Key for leavening, providing a light and airy crust.
• Honey – This adds subtle sweetness and helps to caramelize the crust.
• White whole wheat flour – Offers a nutty flavor while keeping the pizza hearty.
• Dried rosemary – Infuses the dough with an aromatic, earthy taste.
• Dried thyme – Complements the butternut squash beautifully, enhancing the flavor profile.
• Salt – Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing the dough’s texture.
• Olive oil – Adds richness to the dough and helps it achieve a golden color.
For the Toppings
• Spicy sausage – Brings a kick that contrasts delightfully with the sweetness of the squash.
• Shallot – Provides a mild onion flavor that adds depth without overpowering.
• Butternut squash – Roasted until tender, it contributes a sweet, creamy element to the pizza.
• Brussels sprouts – Adds a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness of the squash.
• Brown sugar – Helps caramelize the veggies, enhancing their natural flavors.
• Nutmeg – A pinch adds warmth and complements the squash beautifully.
• Fresh sage leaves – Finely minced for flavor, with extra for garnishing to showcase freshness.
• Pesto – A layer of this vibrant sauce elevates the pizza with herbaceous richness.
• Fontina cheese – Melts beautifully, adding creaminess and a mild nutty taste.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty kick and depth, perfect for a gourmet finish.
• Ricotta cheese – Spoonfuls of this creamy cheese add richness and a touch of luxury.
• Cornmeal – Sprinkled on the baking sheet, it prevents sticking and adds texture to the crust.
Unleash your creativity in the kitchen with this Butternut Squash, Brussels, Spicy Sausage, and Ricotta Pizza; your family will thank you!
How to Make Butternut Squash Pizza
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Dissolve the yeast by mixing it with 1 tablespoon of honey in warm water. Let it sit for about ten minutes until it becomes foamy—a key step for a rise that will create a light crust.
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Whisk together the flour, rosemary, thyme, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the olive oil and the remaining 2 tablespoons of honey, then stir in the foamy yeast mixture until it forms a shaggy dough that begins to come together.
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Knead the dough on a lightly floured or oiled surface for about 4-5 minutes. You’ll want it to feel smooth and elastic, ready to rise and become a delightful crust.
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Let it rise in a well-oiled bowl, covering it to keep the warmth in. Allow the dough to double in size, which usually takes about 1-2 hours—taking this time will reward you with a fluffy crust.
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Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into small pieces until browned and cooked through. Once ready, remove from heat and set aside, letting those spicy flavors linger.
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Sauté the veggies in the same skillet by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced shallot, butternut squash cubes, and sliced Brussels sprouts. Cook until fork-tender, tossing frequently—this should take about 10-15 minutes.
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Caramelize the mixture by stirring in the brown sugar, nutmeg, and minced sage. Let it cook for 1-2 more minutes until everything is beautifully coated and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
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Preheat your oven to 400°F, ensuring it’s nice and hot—this will help achieve that golden, crispy crust we all crave.
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Roll out the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Then invert a baking sheet and sprinkle cornmeal on it. Transfer the dough to the baking sheet, ensuring it doesn’t stick.
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Spread a layer of pesto over the dough. Next, sprinkle half of the fontina and Parmesan cheese on top, setting a cheesy foundation for all your delicious toppings.
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Layer the butternut squash mixture over the cheese, followed by the spicy sausage for a generous kick. Then sprinkle the remaining cheese over it, and drop spoonfuls of ricotta around the pizza. Top it all off with those fresh sage leaves for a lovely finish.
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Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, watching closely until the crust is perfectly golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and melty—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Optional: Drizzle a touch of balsamic glaze over the finished pizza for an extra flavor kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Butternut Squash, Brussels, Spicy Sausage, and Ricotta Pizza components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this gourmet pizza with minimal effort during busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge up to 24 hours ahead; just be sure to let it come to room temperature before you roll it out. Additionally, the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts can be sautéed and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring their flavors remain vibrant. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the pizza with the cooked sausage, pesto, and cheese, and pop it in the oven for 20-25 minutes for a delicious homemade meal that’s just as scrumptious as when made fresh!
Helpful Tricks for Butternut Squash Pizza
Yeast Activation: Check water temperature: Ensure it’s warm but not hot—too hot can kill the yeast, leading to a dense dough.
Kneading Properly: Don’t rush the knead: A good 4-5 minutes of kneading is crucial for a smooth and elastic dough that will rise beautifully.
Roasting Veggies: Cook until tender: Ensure the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts are fork-tender while sautéing, as undercooked veggies can impact texture.
Pesto Layering: Spread evenly: Apply a thin layer of pesto to avoid it overpowering the flavors of the butternut squash and sausage.
Baking Tip: Watch the crust: Keep an eye on your pizza while baking; every oven behaves differently, so you may need to adjust cooking time.
Serving Warm: Enjoy fresh: This Butternut Squash, Brussels, Spicy Sausage, and Ricotta Pizza is best enjoyed right out of the oven for maximum flavor and texture!
What to Serve with Butternut Squash, Brussels, Spicy Sausage, and Ricotta Pizza?
Add a cozy touch to your pizza night with these delightful pairings that enhance the warmth and flavors of your meal.
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pizza.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread adds a crunchy element, making every bite of pizza even more satisfying.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies sprinkled with olive oil and herbs create a colorful and nutritious side that complements the pizza’s flavors.
- Apple Crisp: This sweet and cinnamon-kissed dessert provides a delightful contrast to the savory pizza, perfect for a comforting finish.
- Red Wine: A medium-bodied red like Merlot enhances the spicy sausage and rich cheeses beautifully, making each sip a delightful pairing.
- Pumpkin Soup: Creamy and warm, pumpkin soup brings a seasonal touch to your table, echoing the flavors of butternut squash.
- Sparkling Water: The effervescence cleanses your palate nicely, allowing you to savor every bite of your gourmet pizza.
- Cheesecake: A slice of creamy cheesecake topped with seasonal fruits adds a lovely, sweet end to your meal, balancing savory with sweet.
- Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy with a touch of lemon, it serves as a nutritious and filling side that doesn’t overshadow the pizza’s flavors.
Butternut Squash Pizza Variations
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity with these fun twists on this delightful pizza!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the spicy sausage for diced mushrooms or zucchini for a delicious plant-based option.
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Cheesy Twist: For an extra cheesy experience, try adding goat cheese or gorgonzola alongside the ricotta for an indulgent layer of flavor.
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Whole Wheat Crust: Use a whole wheat pizza crust or cauliflower crust to make this dish even healthier without sacrificing taste.
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Sweet Heat: Add thinly sliced jalapeños to the sausage for a delightful kick that complements the sweetness of the butternut squash.
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Savory Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for a flavor boost; fresh herbs can elevate your pizza to new heights.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before serving for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the toppings.
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Maple Glaze: Drizzle a little maple syrup over the veggies before baking for a touch of sweetness that perfectly enhances the other flavors.
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Exotic Flair: Add a hint of curry powder to the butternut squash mixture for an unexpected and delightful flavor fusion!
How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash, Brussels, Spicy Sausage, and Ricotta Pizza
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze whole or sliced pizza wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again.
Room Temperature: Allow the pizza to cool before covering; it can stay out for up to 2 hours but should be refrigerated afterward to ensure freshness.
Butternut Squash, Brussels, Spicy Sausage, and Ricotta Pizza Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right butternut squash?
Absolutely! When picking butternut squash, look for a smooth, firm skin with a uniform tan color. Avoid any with dark spots or soft spots, as they indicate overripeness. The squash should feel heavy for its size, ensuring it’s full of those sweet, creamy fibers inside.
What’s the best way to store leftover pizza?
To keep your Butternut Squash, Brussels, Spicy Sausage, and Ricotta Pizza fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating it in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore its crispy crust and gooey cheese.
Can I freeze this pizza?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze the pizza! Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will last for up to 2 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Ah, the dreaded dough issue! If your dough doesn’t rise, it’s likely due to the yeast being inactive. Double-check that your water was warm (not too hot or cold) when activating the yeast. If it didn’t foam after 10 minutes, try again with fresh yeast. For consistent results, always check the expiration date on your yeast package.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be mindful of the cheese—both fontina and Parmesan contain dairy. For a vegan alternative, use plant-based cheeses and substitute the sausage with veggie alternatives. Always check ingredient labels for gluten or nut allergens if necessary.
How do I know when the pizza is done baking?
Great question! Your Butternut Squash, Brussels, Spicy Sausage, and Ricotta Pizza is done when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned. You can also check the bottom of the crust by gently lifting a corner; it should be firm and crispy. Enjoy the heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Butternut Squash Pizza with Brussels, Spicy Sausage & Ricotta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Dissolve the yeast by mixing it with 1 tablespoon of honey in warm water. Let it sit for about ten minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Whisk together the flour, rosemary, thyme, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the olive oil and the remaining 2 tablespoons of honey, then stir in the foamy yeast mixture until it forms a shaggy dough.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 4-5 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic.
- Let it rise in a well-oiled bowl, covering it to keep warmth in. Allow the dough to double in size, which should take about 1-2 hours.
- Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned. Remove from heat.
- Sauté the minced shallot, butternut squash cubes, and sliced Brussels sprouts in the same skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil until fork-tender.
- Stir in brown sugar, nutmeg, and minced sage. Cook for 1-2 more minutes and set aside to cool slightly.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Roll out the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface and transfer to a baking sheet sprinkled with cornmeal.
- Spread a layer of pesto over the dough, then sprinkle half of the fontina and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Layer the butternut squash mixture and spicy sausage, then sprinkle the remaining cheese and add spoonfuls of ricotta.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbling.