why make this recipe
Deep-dish pizza pie is a true comfort food that fills your belly and warms your heart. Its thick, hearty crust is perfect for holding loads of cheese and delicious toppings. Whether you are hosting a party, family gathering, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is a great way to impress and satisfy everyone.
how to make Deep-Dish Pizza Pie
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup cheddar cheese (optional)
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms
- ½ cup sliced green bell peppers or jalapeños
- Pepperoni slices
- Additional shredded mozzarella
- Extra pepperoni and vegetables for garnish
Directions:
- In a small bowl, mix the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until it is smooth. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1 hour.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the pizza sauce and cook for 5 minutes. Set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll the dough into a large circle and press it into a greased deep baking or springform pan. Trim any excess dough.
- Layer shredded mozzarella cheese on the crust base. Add the meat filling, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Repeat the layers with more cheese and fillings as desired.
- Top with extra mozzarella and pepperoni slices or any other garnishes you like.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing.
- Slice into portions and serve warm. This pizza pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to serve Deep-Dish Pizza Pie
Serve the deep-dish pizza pie warm. You can garnish it with more cheese, pepperoni, or fresh herbs before serving. Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a delightful meal.
how to store Deep-Dish Pizza Pie
To store leftover deep-dish pizza pie, let it cool completely. Place slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze individual slices for later use; just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
tips to make Deep-Dish Pizza Pie
- Make sure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
- Knead the dough properly to develop gluten, which gives it structure.
- Don’t overload the pizza with too many toppings, as this can make it soggy.
- Let the pizza rest for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier.
variation
You can try using different meats, like chicken or turkey, for a lighter option. Vegetarian lovers can skip the meat and load up on more vegetables like olives, spinach, or artichokes. For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought dough to save time. Just roll it out and follow the same steps for preparing the pizza.
2. How can I make this pizza gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make the dough. Just ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
3. What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If the dough doesn’t rise, make sure your yeast is fresh and that the water was warm (not too hot). You can try placing the dough in a warm spot to help it rise.