Deep-Dish Pizza Pie
A warm and comforting pizza experience featuring a flaky, buttery crust filled with savory Italian sausage and gooey melted mozzarella, topped with a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast Ensure yeast is fresh for activation.
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C) Ideal temperature to activate yeast.
- 2 teaspoons sugar Feeds the yeast and balances flavors.
- 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour Base for a tender and chewy crust.
- 2 teaspoons salt Enhances flavor.
- 1/4 cup olive oil Adds richness and prevents sticking.
For the Filling
- 1 pound Italian sausage Choose sweet or spicy.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Gooey cheese that defines pizza.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a salty kick.
For the Sauce
- 2 cups canned tomato puree Base for the savory sauce.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste Intensifies tomato flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano Brings classic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil Adds a hint of sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder For a fragrant underpinning.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder Adds complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Introduces gentle heat.
For Greasing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For greasing the pan.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it stand for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- 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.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and grease a deep-dish pizza pan with olive oil.
- Punch down the risen dough to release the air and spread it evenly across the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the crust. Layer the cooked sausage on top, followed by the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- In a 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 cheese layer.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serve hot.
Notes
Deep-Dish Pizza Pie is versatile; serve with a side salad. Pair with a refreshing beverage for a complete meal.