Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe

If you’re a pizza lover on a mission for the ultimate comfort food, this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe is calling your name. Imagine a towering, golden-crusted pie layered with gooey mozzarella, savory sausage or beef, juicy vegetables, and a blanket of zesty pizza sauce bubbling under a hearty crown of cheese and pepperoni. Each slice is pure, indulgent satisfaction, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or turning a simple weeknight into an unforgettable feast. Let’s dive into how you can bring the magic of this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe into your own kitchen!

Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe comes from simple, classic ingredients that each bring their own character to the table. Every layer, from the chewy crust to the melty cheese and robust sauce, plays an essential role in building flavor and texture into this showstopping dish.

  • All-purpose flour: The foundation of our crust—choose a high-quality flour for the best structure and chewy bite.
  • Sugar: Just a teaspoon to encourage lovely browning and a hint of sweetness in the dough.
  • Salt: Critical for flavoring the dough and balancing out the savory toppings.
  • Warm water: Helps activate the yeast, making your dough rise to irresistible fluffiness.
  • Active dry yeast: Delivers that essential lift, creating a pillowy yet sturdy pizza crust.
  • Olive oil: Adds tenderness and subtle richness to the dough.
  • Ground beef or Italian sausage: Brings savory depth—choose your favorite for a classic or spicy twist.
  • Pizza sauce: Go classic or homemade for that bold, tomato-y punch.
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese: The ultimate melty layer—don’t skimp on the cheese!
  • Cheddar cheese (optional): A touch for sharpness and color if you want an extra pop.
  • Sliced mushrooms: Earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the meaty filling.
  • Sliced green bell peppers or jalapeños: Add a hint of sweetness or heat, depending on your mood.
  • Pepperoni slices: Classic topping that gets deliciously crisp as it bakes.
  • Additional shredded mozzarella: For that irresistible cheesy crust on top.
  • Extra pepperoni and vegetables for garnish: Make your pizza pie a feast for both the eyes and taste buds.

How to Make Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

The heart of every great Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe starts with the dough. In a small bowl, blend your warm water and yeast, giving it a few minutes to get nice and foamy. This is your sign the yeast is active and ready to create a luscious, fluffy crust. Stir together your flour, sugar, and salt in a bigger bowl, then add in the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Now, it’s time for a little workout—knead by hand on a floured surface until the dough is smooth and springy, about 8–10 minutes. Tuck your dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for a full hour. Your patience will be rewarded with a soft, pillowy base ready to hold up all the cheesy, saucy goodness.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

While your dough rises, get the filling started. In a skillet over medium heat, crumble and brown your ground beef or sausage. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat—this keeps your pizza from turning soggy. Stir in the pizza sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, soaking up every bit of rich, tomato flavor. Set aside and let those meaty aromas get you excited for what’s next.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza Pie

Once your dough has doubled in size, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll your risen dough into a generous circle—just big enough to drape over and up the sides of your greased deep baking or springform pan. Trim any excess for that perfect fit. Start with a layer of mozzarella right on the bottom crust. Spoon on your prepared meat filling, then scatter mushrooms and bell peppers (or jalapeños for a kick). Feel free to layer in extra cheese and fillings if you’re feeling decadent! Top everything with a thick layer of additional mozzarella and arrange pepperoni slices or any favorite garnishes for a gorgeous finish.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your assembled pie into the oven and let it bake for 25–30 minutes. You’re looking for a deep golden crust and bubbling, mouthwatering cheese on top. When it’s finished, resist the urge to dig in immediately—let your Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe cool for a few minutes so the layers settle and it slices like a dream.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Carefully remove your pizza pie from the pan and slice it into generous portions. The first cut is always the most satisfying—watching that gooey cheese stretch as you serve it up. This hearty masterpiece is best enjoyed warm, paired with your favorite sides or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe

Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A few finishing touches can truly make your Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe shine. Sprinkle extra mozzarella, scatter some fresh basil or oregano, and add a few glossy pepperoni slices or colorful bell peppers right before serving. The visual pop and extra burst of flavor make it restaurant worthy.

Side Dishes

This pizza pie pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in Italian dressing for a refreshing, crunchy balance. Garlic bread is another all-time favorite—golden, buttery, and perfect for sopping up any extra sauce. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or even a tangy antipasto platter.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re impressing guests or celebrating, try baking your Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe in mini springform pans for adorable individual servings. Or serve slices on a wooden board with little bowls of extra sauce for dipping, parmesan for sprinkling, and some crushed red pepper flakes for spice fans.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let your pizza pie cool to room temperature, then wrap individual slices in foil or plastic wrap. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to three days.

Freezing

The Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe freezes surprisingly well! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap whole or sliced portions tightly in foil and slip them into freezer-safe bags. When the pizza cravings strike, you’ll have a homemade feast ready to go for up to two months.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F, right on the rack or baking sheet until hot and crispy again—usually about 10 minutes. Microwaving works if you’re in a rush, but you might lose some of that magical crust texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe?

Absolutely! While homemade dough adds that special touch, a quality store-bought dough can save time and still yield a satisfying result. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before shaping for best results.

What’s the best pan to use for deep-dish pizza pie?

A deep, round cake pan or a springform pan works wonderfully, giving you those classic high walls and easy removal. If you only have a high-sided cast iron skillet, that’s a fantastic alternative—it crisps up the crust beautifully.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the meat for a sautéed mix of mushrooms, spinach, onions, or even plant-based sausage. Pile on the veggies and cheese as you wish for a totally satisfying meatless version.

What other toppings can I use in my pizza pie?

The Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe is endlessly adaptable—try roasted red peppers, olives, caramelized onions, or even a swirl of pesto. Make it your own by mixing and matching your favorite toppings and cheeses.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Layering cheese directly on the crust before adding wet ingredients helps create a barrier that keeps everything nice and crisp. Always drain meats and veggies well before layering them onto your pizza pie, too.

Final Thoughts

This Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe is everything your inner pizza-lover dreams of—thick, cheesy, oozing with flavor, and sure to bring a smile to anyone who grabs a slice. Don’t wait for a special occasion; give it a try next pizza night and savor every epic bite!

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Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe

Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe


  • Author: Zoe
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 1 deep-dish pizza pie 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Deep-Dish Pizza Pie recipe is a hearty and satisfying twist on traditional pizza. With a thick, fluffy crust and a generous amount of savory toppings, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any pizza lover.


Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

  • 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

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
  • Additional shredded mozzarella
  • Extra pepperoni and vegetables for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough – In a small bowl, mix warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Add yeast mixture and olive oil, then mix until dough forms. Knead dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for 1 hour.
  2. Cook the Filling – In a skillet, brown ground beef or sausage over medium heat. Drain excess fat. Stir in pizza sauce and cook for 5 minutes. Set aside.
  3. Assemble the Pizza Pie – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll dough into a large circle and press it into a greased deep baking or springform pan. Trim excess dough. Layer shredded mozzarella cheese on the crust base. Add the meat filling, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Repeat with cheese and fillings as desired. Top with extra mozzarella and pepperoni slices or other garnishes.
  4. Bake – Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. Let cool slightly before slicing.
  5. Serve and Enjoy – Slice into portions and serve warm. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 1.5 hours
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Bake
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: Pizza, Deep-Dish Pizza, Pizza Pie, Homemade Pizza, Italian

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