Deep-Dish Pizza Pie

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can beat the heartiness and flavor of a deep-dish pizza pie. This savory dish takes all the elements of your favorite pizza and transforms them into a delicious, layered masterpiece. With a golden, flaky crust, a rich sausage and vegetable filling, and melted mozzarella cheese, every bite is a satisfying experience. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or as a weekend treat, this deep-dish pizza pie offers a fresh spin on the classic pizza.

Unlike traditional pizza, which is typically baked on a flat surface, this deep-dish version allows all the flavors to meld together inside a crust that holds everything together. It’s essentially a pizza with a buttery, thick crust that acts as both the base and the edge, providing the perfect vessel for a hearty filling. The mix of Italian sausage, bell peppers, onions, and garlic creates a savory and flavorful stuffing, which is then topped with gooey mozzarella cheese and baked to perfection. This dish is filling, flavorful, and a fun alternative to the usual pizza.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a lot to love about this deep-dish pizza pie. First and foremost, the combination of Italian sausage, vegetables, and cheese in a golden crust is a crowd-pleasing winner. It’s the perfect balance of savory and cheesy, with each bite delivering a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. The pizza dough is pressed into the pie dish, creating a crust that’s both sturdy and flaky, holding the filling in place and adding to the overall enjoyment.

It’s also a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your tastes. Feel free to add other ingredients like mushrooms, olives, or pepperoni to the filling. Additionally, since it’s a pie, it’s easy to slice and serve to guests, making it an ideal choice for parties or family gatherings. Plus, the recipe is straightforward and easy to prepare, so you can enjoy a homemade pizza pie in less than an hour.

Ingredients

• Italian sausage
• Chopped onion
• Chopped green bell pepper
• Chopped red bell pepper
• Minced garlic
• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Refrigerated pizza dough
• Shredded mozzarella cheese

Variations

1. Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and use vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a vegetarian option.
2. Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or hot Italian sausage to the filling for an extra kick.
3. Cheese Variation: While mozzarella is classic, try adding a blend of cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or Parmesan for a richer flavor profile.
4. Meat Lovers: Add extra meats like pepperoni, bacon, or ground beef to the sausage mixture for a heartier filling.
5. Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free pizza dough if you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative to the classic crust.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), so it’s hot and ready to bake the pizza pie.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables

In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess grease from the pan.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Simmer

Stir in the minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Prepare the Dough

Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough and press it into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Make sure the dough is evenly distributed, creating a sturdy base for the filling.

Step 5: Assemble the Pizza Pie

Spoon the sausage and vegetable mixture into the dough-lined pie dish, spreading it evenly. Ensure the filling is packed in tightly so it holds together as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. The crust should begin to turn golden.

Step 7: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pizza pie. Return the pie to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Let It Stand

Remove the pizza pie from the oven and allow it to stand for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Use a Pie Dish: Make sure to use a 9-inch pie dish for the best results. A deep-dish pizza pan can also be used if you prefer a thicker crust.
2. Drain Excess Liquid: When using canned tomatoes, drain any excess liquid to prevent the pie from becoming too soggy.
3. Let the Pie Rest: Allow the pizza pie to sit for a few minutes after baking so the filling can set. This makes it easier to slice.
4. Pre-cook the Dough: For a crispier crust, you can pre-bake the pizza dough for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling.
5. Customize the Toppings: Feel free to get creative with the filling. You can add olives, mushrooms, or even anchovies for additional flavor.

How to Serve

This deep-dish pizza pie is perfect as a standalone meal. Slice it into wedges and serve with a side salad for a complete dinner. It also pairs well with garlic bread or a simple antipasto platter. For a fun twist, try serving it with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or your favorite hot sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pizza pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing

This deep-dish pizza pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, simply place slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat the whole pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with ground beef, turkey, or chicken sausage for a lighter option.

2. Can I use homemade pizza dough?

Absolutely! If you prefer to make your own dough, you can substitute the refrigerated pizza dough with your homemade version.

3. How can I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Be sure to drain the tomatoes and any excess liquid from the sausage mixture before adding it to the pie crust. Pre-baking the crust for a few minutes can also help.

4. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen bell peppers or onions in place of fresh ones if necessary. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.

5. Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the pizza pie ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add the cheese and bake when ready.

6. Can I make this with a gluten-free crust?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free pizza dough for a gluten-free version of this deep-dish pizza pie.

7. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute mozzarella with other cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or a blend of your favorites.

8. How do I get a crispier crust?

To achieve a crispier crust, you can pre-bake the dough for a few minutes before adding the filling.

9. Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

Yes, you can add mushrooms, spinach, or olives to the filling for extra flavor and texture.

10. How long should I let the pizza rest before slicing?

Let the pizza pie rest for about 5 minutes to allow the filling to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Conclusion

This Deep-Dish Pizza Pie is a comforting, delicious meal that combines the best parts of pizza and pie. With its savory filling, cheesy topping, and golden crust, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a special gathering, or just a cozy night in, this deep-dish pizza pie will satisfy your cravings and leave everyone asking for more. Plus, with its customizable ingredients and make-ahead options, it’s as convenient as it is tasty!

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