Level Up Your Aldi Pizza Night: Sausage & Kale Deli Flatbread Recipe

Are you tired of the same old frozen pizza routine? Do you crave a delicious, restaurant-quality pizza experience without the restaurant prices? Look no further than your local Aldi! Their Mama Cozzi’s Pizza Kitchen Deli Flatbreads are a blank canvas for culinary creativity, and today, we’re transforming the Sausage variety into a flavorful and nutritious masterpiece with the addition of fresh kale and a few simple pantry staples.

This recipe for Sausage & Kale Deli Flatbread is not only quick and easy to make but also offers a healthier alternative to traditional pizza. The hearty sausage, earthy kale, and tangy cheese create a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra greens for even the pickiest eaters!

**Why Aldi’s Mama Cozzi’s Deli Flatbreads are a Game Changer**

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why these flatbreads are so awesome. Aldi’s Mama Cozzi’s Pizza Kitchen Deli Flatbreads are pre-made pizza crusts that are ready to be topped and baked. They’re usually found in the refrigerated section of Aldi, near the pre-made pizzas and salads. Here’s why they are a great choice:

* **Convenience:** They are incredibly convenient. No need to make your own dough from scratch. Just grab one (or two!) and get creative with your toppings.
* **Affordability:** Aldi is known for its budget-friendly prices, and these flatbreads are no exception. They are significantly cheaper than ordering pizza from a restaurant or even buying a frozen pizza.
* **Versatility:** The flatbreads are a blank canvas for your culinary imagination. You can top them with anything you like, from classic pizza toppings to more adventurous combinations.
* **Taste:** The flatbreads have a delicious, slightly chewy texture that is perfect for pizza. They crisp up nicely in the oven, giving you a satisfying crunch with every bite.

**The Star of the Show: Mama Cozzi’s Sausage Deli Flatbread**

For this recipe, we’re using the Mama Cozzi’s Sausage Deli Flatbread as our base. This flatbread already comes with a generous layer of tomato sauce and sausage crumbles, providing a solid foundation of flavor. However, we’re going to elevate it with the addition of fresh kale and a few other ingredients that complement the sausage and create a truly unforgettable pizza experience.

**Ingredients You’ll Need:**

* 1 Mama Cozzi’s Pizza Kitchen Sausage Deli Flatbread (from Aldi)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 4 cups chopped fresh kale (about 1/2 bunch)
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Equipment:**

* Large skillet
* Baking sheet or pizza stone
* Oven

**Step-by-Step Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Kale:**

* Wash and dry the kale thoroughly. This is important because wet kale will steam in the pan instead of sautéing properly.
* Remove the tough stems from the kale. You can do this by folding the kale leaf in half lengthwise and using a knife to cut along the stem. Alternatively, you can simply tear the leaves away from the stem.
* Chop the kale into bite-sized pieces. Aim for pieces that are about 1-2 inches in size.

2. **Sauté the Kale:**

* Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure the skillet is large enough to accommodate all the kale without overcrowding it.
* Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
* Add the chopped kale to the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the kale is wilted and tender. Stir frequently to ensure that the kale cooks evenly.
* Season the kale with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the sausage already has some salt, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.

3. **Prepare the Flatbread:**

* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats. This will help to create a crispier crust.
* Remove the Mama Cozzi’s Sausage Deli Flatbread from its packaging and place it on a baking sheet or directly on the preheated pizza stone.

4. **Assemble the Flatbread:**

* Spread the sautéed kale evenly over the sausage and tomato sauce on the flatbread.
* Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the kale. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory flavor that complements the sausage and kale perfectly.
* If desired, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the Parmesan cheese. Mozzarella cheese will melt beautifully in the oven and create a gooey, cheesy topping.

5. **Bake the Flatbread:**

* Bake the flatbread in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly (if using). Keep a close eye on the flatbread to prevent it from burning.

6. **Serve and Enjoy:**

* Remove the flatbread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
* Slice the flatbread into wedges and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious Sausage & Kale Deli Flatbread!

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add some heat:** If you like your pizza with a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the kale while it’s sautéing. You can also drizzle a little hot sauce over the finished flatbread.
* **Get creative with cheese:** Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Provolone, fontina, or even a little goat cheese would all be delicious on this flatbread.
* **Add some veggies:** You can add other vegetables to the kale mixture, such as sliced mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers.
* **Make it vegetarian:** Omit the Mama Cozzi’s Sausage Deli Flatbread and use the plain deli flatbread, adding a layer of ricotta cheese seasoned with Italian herbs before topping with the kale mixture. You can also add a layer of marinara sauce if desired.
* **Use different greens:** If you’re not a fan of kale, you can substitute it with other greens such as spinach, arugula, or Swiss chard. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze:** A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the savory flavors of the pizza.
* **Top with fresh herbs:** Sprinkle some fresh basil, parsley, or oregano over the finished flatbread for a burst of flavor.
* **Make it a meal prep option:** Bake the flatbread, let it cool completely, and then slice it into individual portions. Store the portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

**Why This Recipe Works**

This recipe is successful for several reasons:

* **Flavor Combination:** The combination of savory sausage, slightly bitter kale, garlic, and cheese creates a well-rounded and satisfying flavor profile.
* **Ease of Preparation:** Using the Aldi Mama Cozzi’s Deli Flatbread saves significant time and effort, making this a quick and easy weeknight meal.
* **Nutritional Value:** Adding kale to the pizza boosts its nutritional value, providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
* **Customizability:** The recipe is easily adaptable to your personal preferences. You can add or substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand or what you enjoy.

**Making it Gluten-Free**

While the Mama Cozzi’s flatbread is not gluten-free, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by using a gluten-free pizza crust. Many grocery stores now carry gluten-free pizza crusts in the refrigerated or freezer section. Follow the instructions on the package for baking the crust, and then top it with the sautéed kale, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese (if using). Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

**Pairing Suggestions**

This Sausage & Kale Deli Flatbread pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing complement to the pizza.
* **Garlic Bread:** Add some extra garlic flavor to your meal with a side of garlic bread.
* **Soup:** A bowl of tomato soup or minestrone soup would be a hearty and satisfying addition to the meal.
* **Wine:** A light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais, pairs well with the flavors of the pizza.
* **Beer:** A crisp lager or pale ale would also be a good choice.
* **Sparkling Water:** For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime.

**Conclusion**

This Sausage & Kale Deli Flatbread recipe is a simple, delicious, and nutritious way to elevate your Aldi pizza night. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of effort, you can transform a basic flatbread into a culinary masterpiece. So, the next time you’re at Aldi, grab a Mama Cozzi’s Sausage Deli Flatbread and give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Enjoy the process of making the recipe and enjoy even more when eating it! Don’t forget to share your experience and variations with friends and family, and to check out our other recipes on our blog!