Savory Mushroom and Sausage Pizza

Ingredients

• Pizza dough (1 batch (store-bought or homemade))
• Pizza sauce (1 cup)
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded (2 cups)
• Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled (1 cup)
• Mushrooms, sliced (1 cup)
• Garlic, minced (3 cloves)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Fresh basil, chopped (1/4 cup)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
2. On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, ensuring it fits your baking sheet or pizza stone.
3. Transfer the rolled dough to a lightly greased baking sheet or hot pizza stone.
4. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce for a cheesy foundation.
6. Distribute the cooked sausage and sliced mushrooms evenly over the cheese.
7. In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it.
8. Drizzle the garlic-infused olive oil over the toppings, allowing the aroma to enhance the flavors.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adding a touch of freshness.
10. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese for that gooey, melty finish.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
12. Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
13. Garnish with freshly chopped basil for an aromatic touch and a pop of color.
14. Slice and enjoy your homemade pizza with a side salad or garlic bread.