Description
Indulge in the ultimate homemade deep-dish pizza pie, featuring a thick, golden crust filled with layers of gooey cheese, savory meats, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for cozy family dinners or wowing guests, this hearty dish is versatile, satisfying, and sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 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
For the Filling:
- 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
Toppings:
- Additional shredded mozzarella
- Extra pepperoni and vegetables for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- Mix warm water and yeast in a small bowl; let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Add yeast mixture and olive oil; mix until dough forms.
- Knead dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
- Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
Cook the Filling:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat; cook ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in pizza sauce; cook for an additional 5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
Assemble the Pizza Pie:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out dough into a 12–14 inch circle. Press into a greased deep baking or springform pan, covering the bottom and sides. Trim excess dough.
- Layer shredded mozzarella on the crust base, followed by meat filling, mushrooms, bell peppers, and additional cheese. Repeat layers if desired.
- Top with extra mozzarella and arrange pepperoni slices or other garnishes.
Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before slicing.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice into generous portions and serve warm. Pair with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, pre-bake the crust for 5–7 minutes before adding the filling.
- Sprinkle cheese directly on the crust to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American