What Is a Big Sausage Pizza? Size, Toppings & Serving Guide

A big sausage pizza typically refers to a large-sized pizza (14-18 inches in diameter) featuring generous portions of sausage as the primary topping, often containing 25-50% more sausage than standard pizza offerings with multiple sausage varieties layered throughout the pie.

When pizza enthusiasts search for a satisfying meal that delivers substantial meaty flavor, the big sausage pizza emerges as a popular choice across pizzerias nationwide. This substantial menu option goes beyond standard sausage pizzas by featuring increased sausage quantities, often incorporating multiple sausage varieties, and sometimes expanding to extra-large pizza sizes that serve multiple people.

Defining Characteristics of a Big Sausage Pizza

What distinguishes a big sausage pizza from its standard counterpart? The "big" designation typically refers to three key elements:

Characteristic	Standard Sausage Pizza	Big Sausage Pizza
Size	10-14 inches	14-18+ inches
Sausage Quantity	8-12 oz	15-24+ oz
Sausage Distribution	Evenly scattered	Layered, sometimes double-stacked
Serving Size	2-3 people	4-6 people

The most authentic big sausage pizzas feature quality Italian sausage with fennel and pepper notes, though regional variations exist. Some establishments create their big sausage pizza by using both sweet and hot sausage varieties to provide a more complex flavor profile that appeals to diverse palates at the table.

Sausage Selection for Maximum Flavor Impact

Not all sausages work equally well on a big sausage pizza. The best options maintain their integrity during the high-heat baking process without releasing excessive grease that could make the pizza soggy. Professional pizzerias typically select from these sausage varieties:

• Italian sausage - The classic choice with fennel and garlic notes
• Breakfast sausage - Offers a different flavor profile with sage
• Spicy chorizo - Adds heat and smokiness for adventurous eaters
• Chicken or turkey sausage - Leaner alternative for health-conscious diners
• Homemade sausage blends - Many pizzerias create signature mixes

When ordering a big sausage pizza, consider asking about the specific sausage blend used. High-quality establishments often use fresh, never frozen sausage that's crumbled to the perfect consistency for pizza application. The best big sausage pizzas feature sausage that's cooked slightly before application to render some fat, then finished in the oven to create those desirable crispy edges that pizza lovers crave.

Regional Variations Across the United States

The concept of a big sausage pizza varies significantly by region, reflecting local tastes and culinary traditions. In New York pizzerias, you'll often find big sausage pizzas with a heavier tomato sauce base and more cheese, while Chicago establishments might feature deep-dish versions with sausage as the bottom layer. Midwest pizza chains frequently offer what they call "meat lover's" big sausage pizzas that combine sausage with other meats.

When exploring big sausage pizza options, understanding these regional differences can help set proper expectations. Some coastal areas feature Mediterranean-inspired big sausage pizzas with toppings like roasted peppers and olives alongside the sausage, while Southern versions might incorporate spicy andouille sausage for extra heat.

Nutritional Considerations for Big Sausage Pizza Lovers

Those interested in the nutritional profile of big sausage pizza should understand that this substantial meal packs significant calories and protein. A typical slice (1/8) of a 16-inch big sausage pizza contains approximately:

Nutrient	Per Slice	Per Whole Pizza
Calories	350-450	2800-3600
Protein	18-25g	144-200g
Total Fat	15-22g	120-176g
Saturated Fat	6-10g	48-80g
Carbohydrates	30-40g	240-320g

For those monitoring their intake, many pizzerias now offer lighter big sausage pizza options with leaner sausage varieties, whole wheat crusts, and vegetable additions to balance the meal. The protein-rich nature of sausage makes big sausage pizza particularly satisfying, which can help with portion control despite its substantial size.

Perfect Pairings for Your Big Sausage Pizza

Crafting the ideal meal around a big sausage pizza involves thoughtful beverage and side selections. The rich, savory flavors of sausage pair beautifully with certain accompaniments that enhance rather than compete with its robust profile.

For beverages, consider:

• Medium-bodied red wines like Chianti or Sangiovese
• Craft beers, particularly amber ales or IPAs
• Sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing non-alcoholic option

Side dishes that complement big sausage pizza include:

• Fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or breadsticks
• Roasted vegetables, particularly broccoli rabe
• Marinated olives and artichoke hearts

The acidity in tomato-based salads or beverages helps cut through the richness of the sausage, creating a more balanced dining experience. When serving a big sausage pizza to a group, providing a variety of sides ensures that everyone finds something that complements their slice perfectly.

Creating Your Own Big Sausage Pizza at Home

While restaurant big sausage pizzas offer convenience, making your own oversized sausage pizza allows for complete customization of ingredients and portion sizes. The key to success lies in proper sausage preparation and distribution.

Start with high-quality sausage that you remove from casings and crumble by hand to maintain texture. For authentic big sausage pizza results, partially cook the sausage before applying it to the pizza to render excess fat. Distribute the sausage evenly but generously across the surface, considering a double layer in some areas for that true "big" experience.

When using a home oven, the biggest challenge is achieving proper cooking without burning the sausage. Using a pizza stone preheated to maximum temperature (500-550°F) helps create the ideal environment for a well-cooked big sausage pizza with crispy edges and perfectly melted cheese. Remember that larger pizzas require slightly longer baking times—typically 15-20 minutes depending on your oven and crust thickness.

FAQ

How much sausage is typically on a big sausage pizza?

A big sausage pizza typically contains 15-24 ounces of sausage, which is approximately 25-50% more than a standard sausage pizza. This generous portioning ensures robust sausage flavor in every slice while maintaining proper balance with other ingredients.

What's the difference between a big sausage pizza and a meat lover's pizza?

While both feature substantial meat portions, a big sausage pizza focuses primarily on generous sausage quantities, often featuring one or two sausage varieties. A meat lover's pizza typically includes multiple meat types like pepperoni, ham, bacon, and sausage in more equal proportions rather than emphasizing sausage as the star ingredient.

Can I get a big sausage pizza with less grease?

Yes, many pizzerias offer big sausage pizzas with reduced grease by partially cooking the sausage before application, using leaner sausage varieties, or providing options for extra cheese absorption layers. Asking for the sausage to be applied in a single layer rather than double-stacked can also reduce greasiness while maintaining flavor.

How many people does a big sausage pizza serve?

A standard big sausage pizza (16-inch) typically serves 4-6 people as a main course. The exact serving size depends on appetite levels and whether you're serving sides. For larger gatherings, many restaurants offer extra-large (18-inch+) big sausage pizza options that can serve 6-8 people comfortably.

What cheese works best with big sausage pizza?

Low-moisture mozzarella remains the classic choice for big sausage pizza as it melts well without becoming greasy. Many pizzerias enhance their big sausage pizzas with a blend including provolone for extra flavor or a small amount of Parmesan for savory depth. The cheese should complement, not overpower, the sausage flavor that defines this pizza style.