Taste the Best with Bertucci’s Homemade Sporky Pizza Recipe
Welcome to my version of Bertucci’s Sporky Pizza Recipe article. As a culinary explorer, I always love trying out new recipes and making my own twist on them. Today, I want to share with you my take on the famous Bertucci’s Sporky Pizza recipe.
I am sure you are familiar with Bertucci’s Italian restaurant and their brick oven pizza. Bertucci’s is known for its delicious and authentic Italian cuisine. One of their signature dishes is the Sporky Pizza which is topped with crumbled sweet Italian sausage, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, and tomatoes. If you have tried it before, you know how addictively good this pizza can be.
My version of the Sporky Pizza recipe is inspired by this amazing pizza. It is a simple yet delicious homemade pizza that anyone can make at home using simple ingredients. And the best part? You won’t have to leave your home to enjoy it! With my recipe, you’ll be able to create your own version of this mouthwatering pizza in no time.
So let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of plain old pizza? Are you looking for a unique and flavorful twist to your homemade pizza? Look no further than my version of Bertucci’s Sporky Pizza recipe!
This pizza is simple, yet addictively good. Inspired by the famous Sporkie Pizza at Bertucci’s Italian restaurant, this pizza combines the richness of sausage and ricotta cheese with the freshness of tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite!
Not only is this pizza delicious, but it’s also easy to make at home. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. And the best part? You can customize it to your liking with different toppings or crusts.
Trust me, this pizza will become a family favorite that you’ll crave again and again. So go ahead, give it a try and see why it’s called the Sporky Pizza!
Ingredient List
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to make my version of Bertucci’s Sporky Pizza recipe:
- 1 pizza dough or flatbread pizza
- 1/3 cup tomato sauce
- 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 sweet Italian sausage
- 1/3 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- extra virgin olive oil
I highly recommend using fresh and high-quality ingredients to achieve the best taste. For instance, store-bought pizza dough will work, but a homemade pizza dough can be a game-changer. The same goes for the tomato sauce: you can use canned or jarred sauce, but making your own sauce from fresh tomatoes always tastes better. Additionally, I suggest choosing whole-milk ricotta cheese because it has a creamier texture and will complement the sausage and tomato nicely. Lastly, feel free to adjust the measurements according to your preferences, and if you’re making more than one pizza, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of pizzas.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we know the ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! In this section, I’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making my version of Bertucci’s Sporky Pizza recipe. So, let’s heat up our ovens and get started!
Making the Sporky Pizza
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). You want your oven nice and hot so that your pizza will come out crispy and delicious.
Step 2: Prep Your Dough
Take your pizza dough or flatbread pizza and give it a good stretch until it reaches the desired size. You can also use store-bought flatbread or pizza crust if you prefer. Place it on a lightly greased pan or pizza stone.
Step 3: Add Your Sauce and Toppings
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough. Add mozzarella cheese, followed by cooked pieces of Italian sausage. Feel free to add extra sausages if you want it meatier! Next, spoon ricotta cheese on top in small blobs or large patches. Finally, slice the medium tomato thinly and add them over everything. Drizzle a few teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil all over the top – this helps everything brown nicely.
Step 4: Bake
Place the pizza inside the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown, cheese is melted, and toppings are well-cooked. Once done baking, remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice the pizza into 8-12 pieces depending on your preference. Serve as is or pair with a side salad or some garlic bread. This simple yet addictively good inspired Sporky Pizza recipe is perfect for any occasion!
Substitutions and Variations
As an adventurous culinary explorer, I always enjoy experimenting with ingredients and incorporating my own twist to my favorite recipes. If you want to mix things up or cater to your dietary needs, here are some possible substitutions and variations for this delicious Sporky Pizza recipe.
If you’re not a big fan of Italian sausage, you can try swapping it out for another protein of your choice, such as ground beef, turkey, or chicken. For a vegetarian version, go for meatless crumbles or opt for flavorful veggies such as mushrooms, roasted eggplant or zucchini.
If you’re looking for a healthier version of the Sporky Pizza, use a whole wheat or gluten-free pizza dough instead of the traditional white flour variety. You can also lighten up on the cheese by using reduced-fat mozzarella or even vegan cheese alternatives, and increasing the veggies like using spinach and kale leaves or roasted butternut squash slices.
For added flavor to your Sporky Pizza, add some caramelized onions or sautéed garlic before spreading the tomato sauce or toss in some sliced black olives, artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes for extra crunchiness and briny notes. Want to try something unique? Brush some pesto instead of tomato sauce at the base of your crust and top with goat cheese crumbles.
Regardless of what substitution or variation you choose to make, remember that cooking is about adapting and making it your own by including whatever ingredients that speak to you. So don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun while making your tasty homemade Sporky Pizza!
Serving and Pairing
Once you have baked your version of Bertucci’s Sporky Pizza, it’s time to serve up a piping hot slice! This pizza is a filling and flavorful meal all on its own, so you don’t need much else to make it complete.
Pairing it with a fresh salad or garlic knots from your local pizzeria can elevate your meal even further. If you’re in the mood for something refreshing, try serving a Caesar salad on the side. The crisp greens and tangy dressing complement the bold flavors on the pizza.
For those who want to indulge a little more, pair this pizza with a bold red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese. The acidity in the wine helps cut through the richness of the cheese and sausage on the pizza, making for a perfectly balanced meal.
Alternatively, if you prefer a refreshing beverage that is not alcoholic, an ice-cold glass of lemonade or iced tea could also be perfect with this pizza.
Whether you’re enjoying this pizza as a family dinner or serving it at a party, everyone is sure to love its delicious flavors and comforting aroma. So go ahead and savor a slice of your homemade Bertucci’s Sporky Pizza alongside your favorite side dish and beverage of choice!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Once you’ve made this delicious sporky pizza, you may find yourself with some leftovers. Fortunately, this pizza can be easily stored and reheated for a tasty meal later on.
To store your leftover sporky pizza, allow it to cool down completely before wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also store individual slices in airtight containers. Place the wrapped pizza or slices into the refrigerator and it will keep for up to four days.
If you want to reheat your pizza, there are a few methods that work well. To keep the crust crispy, place the pizza slice onto a baking sheet and heat in a preheated oven at 400°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. You can also use a toaster oven or microwave, however, this may result in a less crispy crust.
To freeze your leftover sporky pizza, wrap your slices individually with plastic wrap or aluminum foil then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply remove from the freezer and follow the reheating instructions above.
Overall, make sure to properly store and handle any leftover sporky pizza to ensure its full flavor is maintained when you reheat it for future use.
Tips for Perfect Results
To make the best version of Bertucci’s Sporky Pizza recipe, there are a few tips and tricks that can take your pizza to the next level. Here are my tried and tested tips for perfect results:
Firstly, use fresh ingredients whenever possible. There is nothing like the taste of freshly grated mozzarella or ripe tomatoes on your pizza. It adds depth and flavor that you just can’t get from canned or precooked ingredients. So skip the pre-shredded cheese and take a little extra time to chop up your ingredients for the freshest taste.
Secondly, don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings. While Bertucci’s Sporky Pizza is known for its Italian sausage and ricotta cheese, try adding in some other ingredients that you love. You can add vegetables like red peppers or onions, or even try mixing in some bacon bits for an extra savory kick.
Thirdly, be sure to preheat your oven properly before baking your pizza. A hot oven is essential for achieving that crispy crust, so make sure it has reached the right temperature before popping in your pizza.
Fourthly, consider using a pizza stone or a baking steel to cook your pizza. These materials distribute heat evenly across the dough creating the perfect balance of crispiness and softness. And if you want that rustic Italian feel, consider cooking it on a brick oven for the ultimate experience.
Lastly, don’t skimp on the extra virgin olive oil. It not only adds flavor but also keeps your dough from sticking to the surface while giving it that crispy texture. So drizzle some over the top of your pizza before placing it in the oven.
By following these simple tips and tricks, you can create an exceptional homemade Sporky Pizza that will rival any pizzeria’s version.
FAQ
As you prepare to create your version of Bertucci’s Sporky Pizza Recipe, it’s essential to understand the common questions that arise when making this recipe. With this in mind, I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you navigate the recipe with ease. So, let’s dive into the FAQs to ensure that you have all the information you need to make this delicious pizza a reality in your own kitchen.
What is on a sporky pizza?
If you’re a fan of Bertuccis and their famous pizzas, you’ve likely come across the Sporkie – a delicious combination of sweet Italian sausage and creamy ricotta cheese.
Why is called Sporkie Pizza?
The reason behind naming it Spookie pizza is quite intriguing. It has a connection with the founder of Bertucci’s, Joey Crugnale’s son who was always in the kitchen covered in flour, hence his nickname became Sporkie. The pizza was named after this cute and funny moniker. The Italian word for flour is sporco, pronounced as sporko, which is the inspiration for the pizza’s name.
What oven temp for homemade pizza?
When aiming to create the perfect pizza, it’s important to start by heating your oven properly. Cranking up the heat is key, with an ideal temperature range falling between 450 and 500 degrees Fahrenheit (250 to 260 degrees Celsius). This will help ensure that your pizza comes out perfectly cooked and deliciously crispy.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you are a fan of pizza, specifically the sporky pizza from Bertucci’s, then this recipe will be perfect for you. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, even a beginner can make a delicious homemade pizza. Plus, with the ability to customize toppings and substitute ingredients as needed, you can truly make it your own.
The addition of sweet Italian sausage and ricotta cheese takes this pizza to the next level, making it addictively good and inspired by the original sporky pizza from Bertucci’s. The use of extra virgin olive oil and fresh tomatoes gives it a touch of sophistication, making it an impressive dish to serve at any dinner party or gathering.
So why not take on the challenge of creating your own version of Bertucci’s sporky pizza? Whether you’re making it for yourself or for others, this homemade pizza is sure to impress. With a crispy crust, melted mozzarella cheese, and a savory sausage and ricotta topping, this pizza is perfect for any occasion.
My Version of Bertucci’s Sporky Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 frozen cheese pizza
- 1/3 cup cooked bite-sized pieces Italian sausage
- 1/3 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 medium tomatoes, medium slices
- extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (I cook them in my toaster oven).
- Cook Italian sausage links; drain and cut in chunks.
- Drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil over frozen pizza.
- Slice some tomatoes thinly and cover top.
- Sprinkle some cooked chunks of Italian sausage over the tomatoes.
- Dot in between with gobs of fresh ricotta cheese.
- Drizzle more olive oil over that.
- Bake at 400 degrees F for about 10 minutes.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Mishra Vikas is a digital nomad who loves to explore the world and learn about its cultures. As a programmer, backpacker, and cook, he enjoys sharing his adventures and cooking up delectable dishes. Writing about his experiences, creating tasty recipes, and discovering new places are some of his favorite activities. He’s an avid traveler and passionate chef, always on the lookout for an exciting new journey.