If you’re craving a quick, delicious meal that feels both indulgent and fresh, this Sausage Ricotta Flatbread Pizza Recipe is an absolute winner. Combining the crispy, golden edges of lavash bread with the rich creaminess of ricotta, the savory depth of Italian sausage, and vibrant pops of fresh and shredded mozzarella, it’s a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a casual lunch, this flatbread pizza comes together rapidly with minimal fuss but maximum wow factor every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Sausage Ricotta Flatbread Pizza Recipe lies in its simplicity; each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color without overwhelming your kitchen or your palate.
- Lavash bread: The base for this pizza, lavash crisps beautifully while staying light and easy to handle.
- Basil pesto: Adds vibrant herbaceous notes and a lovely green hue that wakes up the flavor profile.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to create gooey, irresistible pockets of cheesy goodness.
- Mild Italian sausage: Brings savory richness and a hint of spice for depth without overpowering.
- Fresh mozzarella pearls: Offer a milky, silky texture that contrasts wonderfully with the shredded cheese.
- Ricotta cheese: Adds creamy tang and balances the sausage’s savoriness with its gentle softness.
- Hot giardiniera: Injects a bold, tangy crunch that livens up every bite with a burst of spice.
- Grated parmesan: Finishing touch for a salty, nutty kick that elevates the entire pizza experience.
- Olive oil: Lightly brushed on the lavash to ensure a golden, crisp crust.
How to Make Sausage Ricotta Flatbread Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Lavash Bread
Start by cutting the lavash bread in half lengthwise to create two crisp flatbreads. Place them on a baking sheet and brush the tops lightly with olive oil. Slide them into a preheated oven at 400°F and bake for 3-4 minutes, just until the edges start to crisp up beautifully. This quick pre-bake ensures a crunchy base that can hold up to all that wonderful topping.
Step 2: Layer the Flavors
Remove the partially baked lavash bread from the oven. Begin by spreading a generous 3 tablespoons of basil pesto across each piece. Then sprinkle on 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by small pieces of mild Italian sausage—use wet fingers to pinch off bite-sized bits for even cooking. Next, scatter the hot giardiniera and fresh mozzarella pearls across the surface. Finally, dot 2 tablespoons of ricotta cheese here and there for creamy pockets of deliciousness.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Return your layered flatbread pizzas to the oven and bake at 400°F for an additional 5-6 minutes. This stage melts all the cheese perfectly and cooks the raw sausage through gently, so every flavor melds into a harmonious pizza masterpiece. Once the cheese is bubbly and sausage cooked, it’s time to pull the pizzas out.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Sprinkle grated parmesan generously over your hot flatbreads to add a final layer of sharp, savory intensity. This finishing touch brings everything together, making each bite irresistibly satisfying.
How to Serve Sausage Ricotta Flatbread Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or oregano make gorgeous garnishes for this pizza, adding brightness and a fresh aroma that complements the rich cheeses and sausage. For those who love a little heat, crushed red pepper flakes can be sprinkled on top to add an exciting kick that wakes up your taste buds even more.
Side Dishes
This Sausage Ricotta Flatbread Pizza Recipe pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to refresh the palate. Alternatively, roasted or grilled vegetables bring warmth and hearty flavor that complements the snack’s richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider slicing the flatbread pizza into smaller, bite-sized pieces for a fun appetizer or party platter. You can also serve it alongside a bowl of marinara sauce or pesto dip for extra indulgence. Another great idea is to serve the pizza open-faced on a wooden board, allowing guests to help themselves to slices as they chat and relax.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though that might be rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flatbread may soften slightly overnight but will still be flavorful and delicious.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the flatbread pizza before baking or even after cooking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and place it in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
To bring back that perfect crispy texture, reheat your flatbread pizza in a toaster oven or under a broiler for just a few minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, since it can make the crust soggy and the cheese rubbery. A skillet reheating method works well too—warm it gently over medium heat to revive the flavors and crunch.
FAQs
Can I use cooked sausage instead of raw in this Sausage Ricotta Flatbread Pizza Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can brown the sausage in a skillet before adding it to the flatbread. This ensures the sausage is fully cooked and makes the cooking process a little quicker in the oven.
Is lavash bread essential or can I use other types of flatbreads?
You can definitely substitute pita, naan, or even tortillas if lavash isn’t available. Each will give a slightly different texture but will still create a delicious base for the toppings.
What if I want to make this pizza spicier?
Try swapping mild Italian sausage for spicy Italian sausage and add extra hot giardiniera or sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust the heat level to your personal taste.
Can I prepare this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! Simply multiply the ingredients and bake the flatbreads in batches or on multiple sheets. It’s a great recipe for feeding friends because it’s quick and easy to customize with various toppings.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The base lavash bread usually contains gluten, but you can find gluten-free flatbreads or make your own gluten-free base to accommodate dietary needs, making the dish just as enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Ricotta Flatbread Pizza Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorites for those moments when you want something fast but satisfying. The blend of creamy ricotta, savory sausage, melty mozzarella, and crispy lavash makes every bite feel like a small celebration. I encourage you to try it soon and make it your own with your favorite tweaks—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fun way to switch up your pizza game in under 20 minutes!
PrintSausage Ricotta Flatbread Pizza Recipe
This Sausage Ricotta Flatbread Pizza is a quick and flavorful meal featuring crispy lavash bread topped with basil pesto, a blend of mozzarella cheeses, mild Italian sausage, tangy giardiniera, and creamy ricotta. Baked to perfection, it’s an easy, delicious pizza alternative packed with Italian-inspired flavors.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Pizza
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Flatbread Base
- 1 piece lavash bread, cut in half lengthwise
- Olive oil, for brushing
Toppings
- 3 tablespoons basil pesto
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/8 pound mild Italian sausage (raw or cooked as preferred)
- 12 fresh mozzarella pearls
- 2 tablespoons ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup hot giardiniera
- Grated parmesan cheese, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the Flatbread: Cut the lavash bread in half lengthwise and arrange the pieces on a baking sheet. Lightly brush the tops with olive oil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 3-4 minutes, or until the edges begin to crisp.
- Assemble Toppings: Remove the bread from the oven. Spread 3 tablespoons of basil pesto evenly over each piece. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Using wet fingers, pinch off small pieces of raw Italian sausage and distribute evenly. Add 1/4 cup hot giardiniera, place 12 fresh mozzarella pearls on top, and dot with 2 tablespoons ricotta cheese.
- Bake the Flatbread Pizza: Return the assembled flatbreads to the oven and bake at 400°F (204°C) for an additional 5-6 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the sausage is cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese. Add any additional garnishes as desired, such as fresh herbs or crushed red pepper flakes. Slice and serve warm.
- Optional: If preferred, cook the Italian sausage beforehand by browning it in a small skillet over medium heat, crumbling it with a spatula until fully cooked, and then use the cooked sausage as a topping.
Notes
- Substitute pita or naan bread for lavash for a different flatbread base.
- Use any type of pesto, such as sun dried tomato pesto, for varied flavor.
- Swap mozzarella and ricotta cheeses for other Italian cheeses like fontina or provolone.
- Use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild for more heat.
- Add thinly sliced tomatoes or red onion for extra freshness and texture.
- Garnish with fresh basil, oregano, or crushed red pepper flakes for enhanced flavor.
