Deep-Dish Pizza Pie

Deep-Dish Pizza Pie is a culinary delight that takes your love for pizza to an entirely new level. This dish embodies layer upon layer of decadent flavors, where the rich, buttery crust cradles savory Italian sausage, melted mozzarella, and a robust tomato sauce. Each bite is a celebration of comfort, perfect for family dinner nights or casual gatherings with friends. The reason it’s worth making? A homemade deep-dish pizza allows you to customize every aspect, ensuring it aligns perfectly with your personal taste preferences. With this step-by-step recipe, you will discover how easy and rewarding it can be to whip up a classic pie right in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When it comes to enjoying delicious homemade food, Deep-Dish Pizza Pie stands out for several great reasons. First, its easy prep makes it accessible even for novice cooks. It’s a family-friendly meal that you can create together—everyone can contribute and customize their favorite toppings. Opting for a traditional approach, you’ll find that this recipe contains minimal ingredients yet delivers maximum flavor. In just about an hour, you can present your family or guests with a warm, aromatic pie right out of the oven. This dish transforms the mundane into something spectacular, making mealtime a delightful experience.

Ingredients for Deep-Dish Pizza Pie

To create your own Deep-Dish Pizza Pie, gather these mouthwatering ingredients:

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: The key to a bubbly, risen crust.
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C): Activates the yeast for optimal rise.
2 teaspoons sugar: Balances the flavors and helps the yeast flourish.
3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of your pizza.
2 teaspoons salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
1/4 cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps with the dough’s texture.
1 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled: Provides hearty, flavorful protein.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and is a classic topping.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Complements the mozzarella with its tangy flavor.
2 cups canned tomato puree: Forms the delicious sauce you spread on top.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an Italian herb note that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
1 teaspoon dried basil: A classic herb that enhances the overall flavor.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the dish with aromatic richness.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth to the sauce mixture.
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: For a hint of heat.
Additional olive oil for greasing the pan: Ensures the crust doesn’t stick.

Step-by-Step Directions for Deep-Dish Pizza Pie

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it stand for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is activated and ready to create a light, airy crust.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Stir until the dough begins to come together, forming a cohesive mass.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and grease a deep-dish pizza pan or cast-iron skillet generously with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and place it in the prepared pan. Using your hands, spread the dough evenly across the bottom and up the sides of the pan, creating an ample crust.
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the prepared crust. Layer the cooked sausage on top, followed by the remaining mozzarella cheese.
In a separate bowl, combine the tomato puree, tomato paste, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Spread this sauce mixture evenly over the top of the cheese layer.
Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce, adding that final touch of depth and flavor.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Let the pizza pie cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve hot, enjoying the warmth and texture of your freshly made deep-dish pizza.

Tips & Tricks

Here are some chef’s secrets and optional extras to elevate your Deep-Dish Pizza Pie:

Feel free to experiment with different toppings such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives for added zest.
For a more robust flavor, consider using a mix of Italian herbs in addition to oregano and basil.
If you have leftover dough, you can make mini pizzas or breadsticks with it!
Brush the crust with garlic-infused olive oil before baking for an added layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

To make your pizza night even more delightful, consider these creative serving suggestions:

Serve with a fresh green salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Offer a selection of dipping sauces, such as garlic sauce or marinara, for a fun twist.
Pair with an Italian soda or flavored sparkling water for a refreshing beverage.

Nutritional Information

While indulging in Deep-Dish Pizza Pie, it’s essential to balance enjoyment with nutrition. A typical serving contains approximately:

Calories: 450-600 (depending on toppings).
Protein: 20g – thanks to the cheese and sausage.
Carbohydrates: 40g – mostly from the crust.
Fat: 25g – factoring in the cheese and olive oil.

Enjoy this delectable dish while being mindful of portion sizes, and revel in a satisfying treat every now and then.

Storing Tips & Variations for Deep-Dish Pizza Pie

Whether you’re planning to save some for later or wanting to mix it up, here are some storing tips and variations:

Freezing: Cool leftovers completely, then store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To maintain the crust’s crispiness, reheat slices in the oven at a low temperature instead of using the microwave.
Healthier Swaps: Substitute turkey sausage for a leaner protein, or use whole-wheat flour for the crust to add fiber.
Creative Variations: Turn this pizza pie into a vegetarian delight or try different styles like BBQ chicken deep-dish.

Conclusion for Deep-Dish Pizza Pie

Deep-Dish Pizza Pie is not just a meal; it’s a joyful experience filled with warmth, flavor, and love. With its inviting aromas wafting through your kitchen and that delightful, gooey texture waiting for you, it’s a dish that everyone should try at least once. Whether it’s for a casual dinner, a special occasion, or simply to indulge in a comfort food favorite, this deep-dish pizza will leave your taste buds craving more. So grab your ingredients and get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this delightful homemade pizza.

FAQs

1. How do I ensure my pizza crust rises properly?

Make sure your yeast is active by testing it in warm water with sugar before mixing it with the flour. Additionally, allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free environment.

2. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely! While making your dough is rewarding, using store-bought dough will save you time if you’re short on it.

3. What can I do if the dough is too sticky?

Add a small amount of flour while kneading until the dough is manageable. Avoid adding too much, or the crust may become tough.

4. How long can I store leftover pizza?

Leftover deep-dish pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

5. Can I customize the toppings for my deep-dish pizza?

Yes! Feel free to adjust toppings based on your preferences. From classic pepperoni to a medley of vegetables, the possibilities are endless!

Deep-Dish Pizza Pie