Save It Sage Turkey Gravy Pizza is the answer to post holiday cravings or those times you just want comfort food without much fuss Picture golden crust creamy sage kissed gravy juicy turkey and gooey cheese all in one slice This recipe is my go to when I have leftover turkey but let&s be honest I will even roast a small turkey breast just to make it
The first time I tried gravy as a pizza sauce my family was skeptical One bite changed everything and now we debate who gets the last slice every single time
Ingredients
- Pizza dough: One pound of good quality dough creates a crisp but chewy base Choose freshly made or let refrigerated dough come to room temperature before stretching for best results
- Turkey gravy: Rich and creamy Homemade is best but a good store bought gravy works in a pinch Warm it up with sage for fresh flavor
- Fresh sage: Chopped fresh sage adds earthiness Dried works in a pinch but fresh is truly aromatic
- Black pepper: Freshly ground adds brightness to the savory base
- Cooked turkey: Use white or dark meat from leftovers or roast your own Shred or dice for easy eating
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly and brings that classic pizza stretch Use whole milk mozzarella for best melt
- Fontina or provolone: Optional but each brings an extra creamy and tangy layer If you love melty cheese use both
- Red onion: Thinly sliced for some crunch and sweetness Choose firm onions with no soft spots
- Baby spinach: Adds a pop of color and freshness Roughly chop so it wilts evenly
- Olive oil: A quick drizzle brings out richness in every bite Opt for extra virgin oil with a fruity note
- Fresh parsley or sage: For garnish Adds a burst of color and herbal brightness Chop right before serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat oven to a piping 475 Fahrenheit If you have a pizza stone slide it in before you turn on the heat Cranking up your oven guarantees a bubbly golden crust
- Shape the Dough:
- Dust your counter lightly with flour Stretch or gently roll your dough to a 12 inch round You want the dough even but still a bit puffy at the edges Carefully move it to a parchment lined baking sheet or a floured pizza peel if using a stone
- Make the Sage Gravy:
- Set a small saucepan over medium low heat Pour in turkey gravy and fresh chopped sage Add plenty of cracked black pepper Stir gently for about two minutes until fragrant and just warmed The sage infuses the gravy with flavor and the kitchen already smells amazing
- Sauce the Pizza:
- Spread the warm sage gravy evenly over the dough Stop about half an inch from the edge for a pretty border Use the back of a spoon to swirl it gently
- Add the Toppings:
- Scatter the turkey pieces evenly over the gravy so every slice gets some Then add shredded mozzarella and optional fontina Cover all the turkey so it stays moist Distribute thin red onion and baby spinach over the top Drizzle with olive oil so everything bakes up luscious
- Bake until Golden:
- Slide your pizza into the hot oven Bake for fifteen to twenty minutes Watch for bubbling cheese and golden edges The crust should feel crisp on the outside and a little chewy underneath
- Garnish and Serve:
- When the pizza is ready pull it from the oven Sprinkle with chopped parsley or extra sage Let it sit for a minute to set the cheese Slice with a pizza cutter and serve hot
Save It My favorite part of making this pizza is the moment I stir sage into the gravy It smells like Thanksgiving all over again and my kids come running to see what is baking I always add a little extra cheese on one half because my youngest claims it should be the cheesiest
Storage Tips
Let any leftover pizza cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil or an airtight container It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days Reheat slices in a skillet over low heat or in a hot oven to restore crispiness Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust chewy
Ingredient Substitutions
Swapping turkey for leftover chicken works if turkey is not handy Rotisserie chicken is a solid shortcut If you avoid dairy you can try a vegan cheese alternative and a plant based gravy Roasted root vegetables like sweet potato or carrots make great add ons for a heartier pizza
Serving Suggestions
Pair slices with a crisp green salad for balance The richness loves a splash of acid so serve with pickled red onions or a drizzle of balsamic reduction This pizza absolutely shines next to a glass of bright Sauvignon Blanc or amber ale
Cultural Twist
Turkey and sage evoke that cozy American holiday feeling but pizza knows no season You might also see gravy topped pies in the Midwest as a way of celebrating local flavors This recipe bridges tradition and weeknight creativity
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring use asparagus tips or fresh peas for a lighter twist In summer swap in thin zucchini ribbons or sweet corn Fall and winter root veggies or sautéed mushrooms bring depth
Save It Friends who thought gravy on pizza was strange have come back for seconds On one snowy night my neighbor brought over her extra stuffing as a topping and it turned into a new tradition This pizza is now a November favorite and a clever meal for any week you crave something ultra savory
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of turkey works best for this pizza?
Cooked turkey breast or thigh can both be used, either shredded or diced for easy topping.
- → Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, leftover chicken is a great substitute and pairs well with sage gravy and cheese.
- → How do I make the crust extra crispy?
Pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings to achieve a crispier base.
- → Are there any alternative cheeses I can use?
Fontina or provolone are great additions and can be substituted with any melty cheese you prefer.
- → What greens or vegetables can I add for more flavor?
Baby spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables enhance the flavor and add nutrition.
- → Is this pizza suitable for gatherings?
Absolutely—it serves up to four and is easy to scale for larger groups, making it ideal for sharing.