If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and keeps everyone coming back for more, this Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a golden, buttery crust hugging layers of melted mozzarella, rich tomato sauce, savory Italian sausage, and zesty pepperoni, all topped off with fragrant herbs. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping dish, perfect for family dinners, game nights, or any occasion where pizza just has to be the star.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe lies in the balance of simple, familiar ingredients that each play a key role in creating its irresistible flavor and texture. From the tender, chewy crust to the hearty meats, fresh veggies, and perfectly seasoned sauces, each component comes together beautifully.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for a tender yet sturdy crust that holds all the delicious fillings.
- 1 tbsp sugar: Helps activate the yeast for a perfect rise in the dough.
- 1 packet active dry yeast (or 2 1/4 tsp): Essential for that light, airy crust texture.
- 3/4 cup warm water: Just the right temperature to wake up the yeast without killing it.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Adds richness and keeps the dough soft and flavorful.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances the dough and enhances all other flavors.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty layer everyone loves inside the pie.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish on top of the sauce.
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled: Packs in bold, savory flavor with a satisfying bite.
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices: Classic pizza topping for that spicy, salty kick.
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup onion, diced: Gives a subtle sweetness and depth to the filling.
- 1 can (15 oz) pizza sauce: Brings acidity and richness, tying all the toppings together.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the savory complexity.
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano: Classic Italian herb that adds warmth and aroma.
- 1/4 tsp dried basil: Fresh and slightly sweet herb that balances the tomato sauce.
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing): Creates a golden, inviting crust exterior.
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional): Gives the crust an extra shiny, appetizing finish.
How to Make Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by combining warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. The yeast should get bubbly and foamy after 5 to 10 minutes—this is your green light that the dough is ready to come alive. It’s like waking up a sleeping giant that will give your pizza its airy texture.
Step 2: Prepare and Knead the Dough
Mix the flour and salt in a large bowl, then add olive oil and the foamy yeast mixture. Stir until all ingredients form a rough dough and then knead it on a floured surface for about 5 to 7 minutes. The goal is a smooth, elastic dough that’s slightly tacky but not sticky. This step builds the gluten structure that gives your crust its perfect chewiness.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Pop the dough into an oiled bowl and cover it with a damp towel. Find a warm spot in your kitchen and let it rise for around an hour until it doubles in size. This waiting game develops flavor and breathes life into the dough, preparing it to cradle all your savory fillings beautifully.
Step 4: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Preheat Oven
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan or a similar-sized baking dish. A well-greased pan ensures your crust comes out golden and crispy without sticking, giving you that signature deep-dish experience.
Step 5: Roll Out and Layer the Dough
Roll out the dough to fit your pan with some excess over the edges to seal everything in later. Begin by laying down a thick blanket of shredded mozzarella right at the bottom, so it melts deliciously underneath the toppings. This step is crucial because in a stuffed deep dish pizza pie recipe, the cheese forms a gooey barrier that keeps the sauce from soaking through the crust.
Step 6: Add Fillings and Sauce
Scatter crumbled cooked Italian sausage, pepperoni slices, diced bell peppers, and onions evenly over the cheese. Pour the pizza sauce on top, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and basil. These layers build a symphony of textures and bold flavors that meld together while baking.
Step 7: Seal the Pie and Add Finishing Touches
Fold the excess dough edges over the filling, pressing gently to seal the pie. Brush the top generously with melted butter for incredible browning and flavor. If you want an even glossier crust, add an egg wash by brushing the dough with a beaten egg. This finishing touch makes your pizza pie look as breathtaking as it tastes.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Pop your masterpiece in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust turns a beautiful golden brown and the cheese inside is bubbling and inviting. After baking, give it about 5 minutes to rest so the layers set slightly—this makes slicing easier and lets all those wonderful flavors really shine.
How to Serve Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to sprinkle some fresh basil leaves or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving to add a pop of color and a little extra kick. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also elevate every bite and make your stuffing shine even more.
Side Dishes
This pizza pie holds its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables that add a fresh, healthy counterpoint. Garlic breadsticks or a bowl of soup are crowd-pleasers that round out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting your stuffed deep dish pizza pie into wedge-shaped slices and serve it on rustic wooden boards for an inviting, shareable experience. You might also top each slice with a little dollop of ricotta cheese or a side of marinara for dipping to offer a gourmet twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stuffed deep dish pizza pie keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld even more, so the next-day slices can be just as delicious—if not better!
Freezing
You can freeze both unbaked and fully baked pizza pie. For unbaked, assemble the pie, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. For baked leftovers, wrap slices individually or as a whole pie with freezer-safe materials. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispness and melty goodness. For quicker reheating, a skillet on medium heat with a lid works wonders to keep the crust from getting soggy.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead of making my own?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough can save time and still yield a tasty stuffed deep dish pizza pie. Just make sure to roll it out thick enough to hold the layers of filling without tearing.
What substitutions can I make for the meats or veggies?
You can customize your pizza pie with any favorite meats like ham, bacon, or chicken, or throw in mushrooms, olives, or spinach for extra veggies. The recipe is very flexible, so make it your own!
How do I know when the crust is fully cooked?
Look for a golden-brown crust all around, especially at the edges, and bubbling cheese inside. If the crust looks pale or doughy, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise slowly in the fridge overnight, which also develops more complex flavors. Just take it out to come to room temperature before assembling your pie.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
This traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends designed for pizza dough, keeping in mind texture and rise might differ.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making a stuffed deep dish pizza pie from scratch, and this recipe captures all the comfort and joy you expect from a homemade meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, give this Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe a try—you won’t regret the delicious results!
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Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie offers a hearty and satisfying meal featuring a golden, buttery crust filled with melted mozzarella, Italian sausage, pepperoni, and colorful veggies, all topped with rich pizza sauce and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for pizza lovers craving a comforting, homemade deep dish experience.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (or 2 1/4 tsp)
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
For the Filling
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) pizza sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp dried basil
For Finishing
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing)
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and olive oil. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into an oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and set aside in a warm area. Allow the dough to rise until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan or a similarly sized baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Shape Dough: Roll out the risen dough to fit the pan, ensuring some excess dough hangs over the edges to seal the pie later.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread mozzarella cheese evenly over the bottom of the crust. Layer cooked and crumbled Italian sausage, pepperoni slices, diced bell pepper, and diced onion on top. Pour the pizza sauce over the filling and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil for rich flavor.
- Seal and Brush: Fold the overhanging dough edges over the filling to enclose it fully, forming a sealed pie. Brush the dough top generously with melted butter. For a glossy golden finish, optionally brush with a beaten egg.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese inside is bubbly and melted.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pizza pie from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes to set before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty deep dish pizza!
Notes
- Allowing the dough to rise properly ensures a light, fluffy crust.
- For spicier flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or filling.
- Use room temperature ingredients for easier dough formation.
- The egg wash is optional but adds a lovely golden shine to the crust.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for best texture.
