Deep-Dish Pizza Pie
A comforting and indulgent deep-dish pizza pie featuring a thick, buttery crust and layered with savory fillings, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Forms the base of your pie, ensuring a warm and fluffy texture.
- 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons) Helps the dough rise beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt Essential flavor enhancer.
- 1 tablespoon sugar Adds a hint of sweetness.
- 3.75 cups warm water Activates the yeast, making your dough rise.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Infuses the dough with richness.
Filling and Toppings
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded Melts into a gooey layer.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese Adds a luscious mouthfeel.
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a nutty flavor.
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes Forms the delicious sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano Classic Italian herb flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adds aromatic depth.
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) For a little heat.
- 0.5 cup sliced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow) Provides a colorful crunch.
- 0.5 cup sliced mushrooms Enhances overall flavor.
- To taste salt and pepper Vital for balancing flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 30-45 minutes until doubled in size.
Baking
- While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, and optional red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread the risen dough into a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan. Layer with mozzarella cheese, followed by ricotta, sliced bell peppers, and mushrooms.
- Pour the prepared tomato sauce over the toppings and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serve warm.
Notes
For a flaky crust, make sure your butter (or olive oil) is chilled before incorporating it into the dough. Experiment with toppings! Consider adding spinach, olives, or pepperoni to suit your family's tastes. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pizza dough as an alternative.