Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
3. On a floured surface, stretch or roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, approximately 12 inches in diameter.
4. Carefully remove the heated pizza stone or baking sheet from the oven and place the rolled-out dough onto it.
5. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Layer the fresh mozzarella slices evenly over the sauce.
7. Distribute the cooked Italian sausage over the cheese.
8. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the pizza and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
10. Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately garnish with fresh basil leaves.
11. Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve hot.