Pronto Pizza Deluxe(6 Servings)
A flavorful, cheesy pizza topped with sautéed leeks, red bell peppers, spicy sausage, fresh basil, and olive paste, perfect for casual gatherings and pizza lovers alike.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
- 4 small leeks, sliced crosswise ⓘ
- 2 large red bell peppers, thinly sliced and halved crosswise ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. dried crushed red pepper ⓘ
- 2/3 lb. turkey Italian sausage
- 2 (1 lb.) baked cheese pizza crusts
- 1 1/2 lb. Mozzarella cheese, grated ⓘ
- 1/2 c. olive paste ⓘ
- 2/3 c. chopped fresh basil ⓘ
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a heavy large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced leeks and red bell peppers; sauté until just tender, about 8 minutes.
- Add dried crushed red pepper; stir for 30 seconds.
- Transfer vegetables to a plate.
- Add turkey Italian sausage to the skillet; cook until no longer pink, crumbling with a fork, about 4 minutes.
- Transfer sausage to another plate.
- Spread olive paste evenly over each baked cheese pizza crust.
- Top each crust with grated mozzarella cheese.
- Distribute sautéed vegetables and cooked sausage evenly over the pizzas.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15-20 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on the traditional flavors, consider substituting the turkey Italian sausage with a vegetarian option or using chicken sausage for a lighter version. If leeks aren't available, green onions can be a great substitute. Make sure to adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to your heat preference. Pairing this with a side of Pasta And Pepperoni Salad adds a delightful contrast to the pizza.
Serving Suggestions
This pizza is perfect for a casual gathering or family dinner. Serve with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. A light red wine, such as Chianti, pairs beautifully with this dish. For a unique twist, consider serving it alongside Italian Nachos for a fun appetizer experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Pronto Pizza Deluxe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy again. Avoid microwaving to maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pronto Pizza Deluxe(6 Servings) contains roughly 602 calories, with 39g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (156% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 720mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese for this pizza?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the melting characteristics may vary, so adjust baking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this pizza gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pizza crusts instead of regular ones. Many grocery stores offer pre-made gluten-free options. Just ensure all other ingredients, such as the sausage and olive paste, are also gluten-free for a complete dish.
How can I make this pizza spicier?
To amp up the heat, consider adding more dried crushed red pepper or even fresh sliced jalapeños on top before baking. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the finished pizza for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).