If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a golden, buttery crust embracing layers of gooey mozzarella, savory Italian sausage, zesty pepperoni, and fresh veggies, all topped with rich, herby tomato sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan for that perfect finishing touch. This pizza pie is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone to the table with smiles and full hearts. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving something special for yourself, this Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe will quickly become your new favorite indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the stretch of mozzarella to the warmth of Italian spices, every component plays a delicious role.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the dough, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- 1 tbsp sugar: Feeds the yeast, helping the dough rise perfectly.
- 1 packet active dry yeast (or 2 1/4 tsp): The key to creating a fluffy and airy crust.
- 3/4 cup warm water: Activates the yeast and binds the dough.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Adds richness and tenderness to the crust.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances flavors and enhances the dough’s taste.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, stringy layer of cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish on top.
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled: Brings bold, savory flavors.
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices: Adds spice and texture.
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced: Fresh color and crunch.
- 1/2 cup onion, diced: Offers sweet and savory depth.
- 1 can (15 oz) pizza sauce: The rich, tomatoey heart of the pie.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds warmth and aroma.
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano: Brings classic Italian herb flavor.
- 1/4 tsp dried basil: Sweetens and uplifts the sauce.
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing): Creates a golden, irresistible crust crust.
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional): Gives an extra glossy, golden finish.
How to Make Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
Step 1: Activate the yeast
Start by mixing warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let this sit for about 5 to 10 minutes, until you see a foamy surface. This foam signals that your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, ensuring a perfect rise for your dough.
Step 2: Prepare the dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt, then add olive oil. Pour in your bubbly yeast mixture and stir until the dough starts to come together. Transfer this to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading develops the gluten, which is essential for that chewy and tender crust.
Step 3: Let the dough rise
Place your dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and tuck it somewhere warm for about an hour. You’ll want it to double in size — this time allows the dough to become airy and full of life, setting the stage for a perfectly light crust despite its thickness.
Step 4: Preheat and prep your pan
While your dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan or a baking dish with some olive oil or butter to ensure your pizza doesn’t stick and that the crust edges turn golden and crispy.
Step 5: Shape the crust
Once your dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to fit your pan with a little extra hanging over the sides. This extra dough will become the sealing edge for your delicious filling to stay perfectly tucked in.
Step 6: Layer the filling
This is the fun part where your pizza pie starts to come alive. Spread a generous layer of shredded mozzarella over the bottom crust; this creates a melty barrier between the crust and sauce, keeping it crisp. Next, evenly distribute cooked sausage, pepperoni, bell pepper, and onion. Pour pizza sauce over everything, then sprinkle with Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, and basil. These layers build heaps of flavor that meld beautifully in the oven.
Step 7: Seal and finish the crust
Fold the edges of the dough over your filling, sealing it tight like a savory treasure chest. Brush the crust with melted butter for that irresistible golden finish. If you want an extra glossy look, brush on a beaten egg before baking. This step gives your pizza pie an eye-catching sheen and adds a subtle richness.
Step 8: Bake to perfection
Bake your pie for 30 to 35 minutes until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown and cheese bubbles up invitingly. Once out of the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes to set the layers before slicing. This brief pause helps all those sumptuous flavors meld together fully.
How to Serve Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe to the next level, consider garnishing with some fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. A scattering of fresh oregano or a dash of grated Parmesan right before serving adds freshness and vibrancy that complements the rich layers inside.
Side Dishes
This pizza pie pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted garlic broccoli or a simple Caesar salad can add necessary contrast while keeping the meal light enough to enjoy every slice guilt-free. For a heartier spread, garlic knots or a bowl of minestrone soup round out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, cut your Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe into squares for easy sharing, or present it whole to wow your guests with its impressive height and stuffed layers. Try serving it alongside dipping sauces like marinara or ranch to add fun options for every taste bud. You can even add colorful parchment paper or rustic wooden boards to bring out the comforting charm of your homemade masterpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat slices gently to maintain that wonderful interplay of crispy crust and melted cheese without drying out.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, making it perfect for meal prepping. Wrap the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and keep it in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving when possible, as it can make the crust soggy and take away from the original texture that makes this dish so special.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead of making my own?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a great shortcut that can save you time. Just make sure it’s thawed completely and rolled out to fit your pan to keep that lovely stuffed effect.
What if I don’t eat pork, can I substitute the sausage?
You can easily swap out Italian sausage for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based sausage alternative. Just cook it fully before adding it to the pie to maintain the rich flavor and texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. Replace the sausage and pepperoni with more veggies like mushrooms, olives, zucchini, or spinach. The layers of cheese, sauce, and herbs will still create an outstanding pizza pie experience.
What thickness should I roll the dough for the deep dish?
Roll the dough out about 1/4 inch thick so it fits snugly in the pan and can fold over the filling without becoming too thick or dense. This thickness helps balance a sturdy crust with a tender bite.
Is it possible to prepare this pizza pie ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the entire pie and cover it tightly, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
There’s something irresistibly rewarding about making your own Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe from scratch. From the bubbly cheese layers to the scrumptious sausage and vibrant veggie fillings, each bite offers comfort and joy that’s hard to beat. So gather your ingredients, get hands-on with the dough, and enjoy the delightful satisfaction of sharing this hearty, flavorful pizza pie with the ones you love. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a treasured recipe in your kitchen rotation.
Print
Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie is a hearty and indulgent meal perfect for pizza lovers craving a thick, cheesy, and flavorful pie. Featuring a homemade yeast dough, layers of mozzarella, Italian sausage, pepperoni, vegetables, and pizza sauce, it’s baked until golden and bubbly for a comforting dish that serves 6 to 8 people.
Ingredients
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
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
Topping
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing)
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, mix flour, salt, and olive oil. Add the foamy yeast mixture and stir until a dough begins to form. Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and set it in a warm place. Allow it to rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat Oven and Prep Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan or comparable baking dish to prevent sticking and for easy removal.
- Roll Out Dough: Roll the risen dough to fit the pie pan, leaving extra dough around the edges to fold over the filling later.
- Assemble Pizza Layers: Layer mozzarella cheese evenly over the bottom of the crust. Add cooked crumbled sausage, pepperoni slices, diced bell pepper, and diced onion. Pour the pizza sauce over the toppings, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil to distribute flavors.
- Seal the Pizza: Fold the extra dough edges over the top of the filling, sealing the stuffing inside the dough. Brush the exposed dough with melted butter and, if desired, add a beaten egg wash to give the crust a rich golden color during baking.
- Bake the Pizza: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese inside is bubbly and melted.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the stuffed deep dish pizza pie to cool for about 5 minutes to set before slicing and serving hot.
Notes
- Make sure the water for the yeast is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- Use cooked sausage to avoid undercooking the filling inside the deep dish.
- Folding the dough over the filling helps trap the moisture and flavors inside, making the pizza more like a stuffed pie.
- The egg wash is optional but it gives the crust a nice shiny, golden finish.
- Letting the pizza cool slightly before slicing helps prevent the filling from spilling out.
- You can customize the toppings as per your preference, adding vegetables or different meats.
