Nothing warms the heart quite like a slice of homemade Deep-Dish Pizza Pie! With layers of gooey cheese, savory meat, fresh veggies, and a thick, golden crust, this dish delivers the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you’re hosting friends or craving a cozy night in, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Want to keep this recipe on hand? Subscribe now and get it delivered straight to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Deep-Dish Pizza Pie:
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite meats, cheeses, and veggies.
- Hearty: A satisfying meal all on its own.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual get-togethers.
Taste Profile Expect a medley of bold flavors and satisfying textures. The crust is thick, golden, and sturdy enough to hold generous fillings. Inside, you’ll find zesty tomato sauce, seasoned meat, melty cheese, and fresh toppings that blend together in every comforting bite.
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:
- Extra shredded mozzarella
- Additional pepperoni or vegetables for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Deep baking pan or springform pan
- Skillet
- Spatula
Instructions
1. Make the Dough
- In a small bowl, mix warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix to form dough.
- Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Filling
- Cook ground meat in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain fat.
- Stir in pizza sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Pizza Pie
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll dough into a 12–14-inch circle. Press into a greased deep pan, covering bottom and sides.
- Layer mozzarella on the crust base.
- Add meat mixture, mushrooms, and peppers. Add more cheese if desired.
- Top with additional mozzarella and pepperoni.
4. Bake
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before slicing.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Slice and serve warm. Pairs perfectly with a crisp salad or garlic bread.
Tips for Success
- Cheese Barrier: Prevent a soggy crust by starting with a layer of cheese.
- Heat Boost: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Mix: Combine mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a richer flavor.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dough? Yes! It’s a great shortcut that still tastes delicious.
What’s a good meat alternative? Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles work well.
Can I make it ahead? Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Give It a Try!
This Deep-Dish Pizza Pie is a comforting, flavorful showstopper. Whether it’s game day or a family dinner, it brings everyone to the table with a smile.
Looking for more inspiration? Try these:
- Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
- Classic Margherita Pizza
- Loaded Veggie Calzones
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g