Deep-Dish Pizza Pie
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie recipe. Loaded with layers of savory ground beef, gooey cheese, and fresh vegetables, this hearty dish is perfect for pizza lovers looking to switch things up. Baked to golden perfection in a thick, buttery crust, it’s a delightful twist on a classic that will please your entire family.
This Deep-Dish Pizza Pie offers a unique take on traditional pizza, featuring a thick crust that cradles a medley of flavorful ingredients.
The Joy of Deep-Dish Pizza
Deep-dish pizza is more than just a meal; it's an experience. Originating in Chicago, this style of pizza features a crust that's thick and buttery, allowing it to cradle a generous filling of ingredients. Unlike traditional pizzas, which have a thin crust, deep-dish pizza offers a reassuring heartiness that satisfies even the most significant appetites. Whether it's a family gathering or a cozy night in, serving deep-dish pizza brings a sense of comfort and joy to any table.
One of the highlights of deep-dish pizza is its versatility. You can customize your filling with a variety of meats, veggies, and cheeses to suit your taste preferences. From spicy sausage to fresh spinach, the options are endless. Plus, the gooey cheese that melts between layers ensures that each bite is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This recipe encourages creativity and invites you to experiment with ingredients, making it an excellent way to involve the entire family in the cooking process.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Deep-dish pizza is an ideal dish for various occasions, whether hosting a game day party, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both adults and children alike. Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread, and you've got a complete meal that feels hearty and indulgent without requiring a lot of extra effort.
Furthermore, deep-dish pizza is not only delicious when freshly baked but also tastes incredible as leftovers. Many people appreciate the flavors intensifying after sitting in the fridge overnight, making it an excellent option for meal prep or planned leftovers. You can easily store individual slices in the refrigerator or freeze them for an easy-to-reheat meal on busy days.
Nutritional Benefits
While deep-dish pizza is often considered a guilty pleasure, it doesn't have to be all indulgence. By incorporating fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions into the filling, you're adding essential vitamins and minerals to this comfort food. Additionally, lean ground beef provides a good source of protein, helping you feel full and satisfied.
With this recipe, you control the ingredients, allowing you to reduce sodium and unhealthy fats by choosing lower-fat cheese or leaner meats. You can also swap out the ground beef for turkey or even make a vegetarian version filled with your favorite seasonal vegetables. This adaptability makes deep-dish pizza a canvas for nutrition, proving that comfort food can also be health-conscious.
Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking!
Ingredients for the Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Ingredients for the Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup sliced onions
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Make sure to prepare your ingredients properly for the best results.
Instructions
Follow these cooking steps carefully to create your perfect pizza pie.
Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, mix the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Add warm water and olive oil, then knead until smooth. Let it rise for 1 hour.
Cook the Filling
In a skillet, brown the ground beef, then add bell peppers, onions, and Italian seasoning. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer.
Assemble the Pizza
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the dough and place it in a greased deep-dish pan. Layer the meat mixture and cheese.
Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before slicing.
Once the pizza is done, enjoy it with your favorite sides.
Tips for Success
To achieve the best results when making deep-dish pizza, ensure that your dough rises adequately. A warm, draft-free environment helps the yeast activate properly, resulting in a light and flaky crust. If you can, allow the dough to rest longer than the recommended hour; this will enhance its flavor and texture.
When it comes to layering, don't be afraid to be generous with your fillings. Spreading the ingredients evenly will ensure each slice delivers a consistent burst of flavor. Moreover, pre-cooking your vegetables slightly will help them maintain their texture while balancing out the moisture content of the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Deep-dish pizza pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages. A crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the pizza, while garlic bread adds to the indulgent feel of your meal. If you're feeling adventurous, consider serving a flavored olive oil for dipping, enhancing the already delicious flavors.
For drinks, a light-bodied red wine complements the savory flavors of the beef and cheese beautifully. Alternatively, a refreshing soda or homemade lemonade can be enjoyed by the whole family, creating a relaxed, enjoyable dining experience.
Storing and Reheating
Proper storage of your deep-dish pizza is essential to maintaining its quality. Allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to store in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can place slices in an airtight container for easy access throughout the week. The pizza can generally be kept in the fridge for up to four days without losing its delightful taste.
When it’s time to enjoy your leftover pizza, reheat it in the oven rather than the microwave for the best results. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the slices on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is warm and crisp again. This method helps restore the original texture, making each bite as delicious as when it was freshly baked.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Deep-Dish Pizza Pie
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie recipe. Loaded with layers of savory ground beef, gooey cheese, and fresh vegetables, this hearty dish is perfect for pizza lovers looking to switch things up. Baked to golden perfection in a thick, buttery crust, it’s a delightful twist on a classic that will please your entire family.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8.0
What You'll Need
Ingredients for the Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Ingredients for the Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup sliced onions
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Add warm water and olive oil, then knead until smooth. Let it rise for 1 hour.
In a skillet, brown the ground beef, then add bell peppers, onions, and Italian seasoning. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the dough and place it in a greased deep-dish pan. Layer the meat mixture and cheese.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g