Description
This deep-dish pizza pie is a hearty, indulgent take on classic pizza. With a buttery crust, layers of cheese, flavorful toppings, and rich tomato sauce, it’s the perfect dish for pizza lovers who want something extra filling and comforting.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the crust:
- 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) warm water
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 2 cups (225 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup (75 g) cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni (or toppings of choice)
- 1/2 cup (75 g) sliced mushrooms or diced bell peppers (optional)
For the sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make the dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
- Add the warm water, milk, olive oil, and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until thickened. Set aside.
- Assemble the pizza pie:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a deep-dish pan or a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan with olive oil.
- Roll out the dough into a large circle and press it into the pan, making sure it covers the bottom and goes up the sides.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the crust. Add the sausage, pepperoni, or other toppings. Pour the tomato sauce on top and spread it evenly.
- Bake the pizza pie:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Cool and serve:
- Let the pizza pie cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve hot with a side of salad or garlic bread.
Notes
- Toppings: Customize the filling with your favorite pizza toppings, like olives, spinach, or grilled chicken.
- Crust: For a richer crust, replace the water with more milk.
- Sauce: Use store-bought pizza sauce if short on time.