Oktoberfest Pizza

Traditional German ingredients like smoked sausage, potatoes and sauerkraut make this hearty Oktoberfest pizza a delicious way to celebrate the iconic German festival. Although pizza with sauerkraut might not be the most authentic German recipe, it would be a fun addition to any Oktoberfest party menu. Serve this pizza alongside authentic German recipes such as spicy cabbage rolls, grilled brats or soft pretzels. Don’t forget the beer—prost!

Oktoberfest Pizza Ingredients

• Refrigerated pizza crust: A store-bought pizza crust brings this pizza recipe together quickly.
• Smoked kielbasa or Polish sausage: You can use smoked kielbasa or Polish sausage seasoned with garlic and spices such as marjoram, black pepper and mustard seed. Smoked sausage is typically ready to serve, but here it’s sauteed in butter for extra caramelization.
• Butter: Butter is used to saute the kielbasa.
• Mashed potatoes: This pizza with sauerkraut is an excellent way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. You can also make a fresh batch of mashed potatoes or use store-bought ones, which you’ll find in the refrigerated section. Instant potatoes will also work in a pinch.
• Sauerkraut: What is German food without sauerkraut? This slightly sour and tart condiment adds a tangy flavor to pizza. You can use your favorite store-bought brand or homemade sauerkraut.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: For the best flavor, use a grater to shred the cheddar cheese yourself. Of course, you can also use packaged shredded cheese if necessary!
• Caraway seeds: Caraway seeds bring nutty, earthy, sweet and subtle licorice flavors to the pizza. If you don’t have caraway seeds, fennel seeds have a similar flavor profile.

Directions

Step 1: Prep the pizza crust

Unroll the dough into a greased 15x10x1-inch rimmed baking pan. Flatten the dough and build up the edges slightly. Bake it at 425°F for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly golden brown.

Step 2: Cook the sausage

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute the kielbasa in butter until it’s browned.

Step 3: Top the pizza

Spread the mashed potatoes over the crust. Layer them with sauerkraut, kielbasa, cheese and caraway seeds.

Step 4: Bake the pizza

Bake the pizza for 10 to 15 minutes or until it’s golden brown.

Oktoberfest Pizza Variations

• Add mustard: Spread 1 or 2 tablespoons of spicy brown mustard, sweet Bavarian mustard or Düsseldorf mustard across the crust (avoiding the edges) before adding the rest of the toppings.
• Make it a pretzel crust: To give the dough a pretzel flavor, in a small bowl, carefully whisk together 1/2 cup of hot water and 2 tablespoons of baking soda until the baking soda is completely dissolved. Then immediately brush the mixture over the outer one inch of the pizza dough (where the crust will be). Let the dough stand for five minutes, then repeat the process once. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of pretzel salt or coarse salt over the outer edge of the crust. Or make a pretzel crust similar to this copycat Little Caesar’s recipe.
• Top it with apples: Add thinly-sliced green apples (such as Granny Smith) in place of or in addition to the sauerkraut called for in this recipe.

How to Store Oktoberfest Pizza

Leftover Oktoberfest pizza should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow the pizza to cool completely before storing. To prevent the slices from sticking together, place parchment paper between the pizza layers.

How long does Oktoberfest pizza last?

Refrigerated Oktoberfest pizza will last up to four days in the refrigerator.

Can you freeze Oktoberfest pizza?

Yes, you can freeze this pizza. To do so, first let it cool completely. Wrap individual slices in storage wrap, then transfer them to a freezer bag or freezer-safe storage container. Freeze them for up to three months. Thaw slices overnight in the freezer before reheating them.

How should you reheat Oktoberfest pizza?

Reheat Oktoberfest pizza in a 350° oven or toaster oven. Microwaving the pizza will render the crust slightly soggy (though it will still be delicious).

Oktoberfest Pizza Tips

Can you use homemade pizza dough for Oktoberfest pizza?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you could use pizza dough made from scratch. Our homemade pizza dough is ready to bake in just 30 minutes.

What else can you serve with Oktoberfest pizza?

Serve this hearty pizza with lighter dishes like wilted endive salad, German-style cabbage and beans or cucumber salad. And don’t forget the apple cake or apple strudel for dessert.