Get ready to savor the ultimate comfort food: Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie! This dish combines the best of both worlds—pizza and pie—creating a cheesy, hearty delight that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. There’s something truly special about gathering around this pie, each slice revealing layers of savory meat, gooey cheese, and vibrant veggies. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up! Just like our popular classic lasagna recipe, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Let’s dive in and make a pizza pie that will wow your loved ones and fill their bellies!
What is Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie?
So, what on earth is a Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie? Well, imagine a luscious pizza baked in a deep pan, stuffed to the brim with your favorite ingredients—sounds intriguing, right? Some might wonder if the name is too long, but they say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this pie is sure to do just that! Think of it as pizza’s exciting cousin that decided to get a little fancy. So why not take a stab at making this scrumptious dish yourself?
Why You’ll Love This
You’re going to absolutely love this Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie for several delightful reasons! First off, its main highlight is the generous stuffing of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and even a splash of pizza sauce—making every bite an explosion of flavors. Plus, making it at home is a great way to save a few bucks compared to ordering out! And let’s not forget the toppings; whether you’re a fan of classic pepperoni or adventurous jalapeños, this pie allows you to customize it to perfection. If you’re enjoyed our famous homemade calzones, you’ll definitely want to experience this pizza pie as well. So, roll up your sleeves and give it a whirl!
How to Make
Quick Overview
Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie is not only easy to make, but it’s also downright delicious! You’ll find it surprisingly simple to prepare. With a prep time of just 30 minutes, and a cook time of about 35-40 minutes, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time. The best part? You can create a masterpiece without any complicated techniques!
Ingredients
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup pizza sauce (divided)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar (optional)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
- Pepperoni slices (for topping)
- Sliced jalapeños or mushrooms (optional for topping)
Step-by-Step
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef along with the diced onion and bell pepper over medium heat until the meat is browned and the veggies are tender. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and about 1/2 cup of pizza sauce. Let this mixture simmer for about 3-5 minutes, then remove it from the heat.
- Grease a deep cake pan or cast iron skillet. Roll out your pizza dough into a large circle and gently press it into the pan, allowing it to come up the sides like a pie crust.
- Layer half of the shredded mozzarella on the bottom, then add the beef mixture and press it down lightly. Top it off with cheddar (if using) and the remaining mozzarella.
- Spoon the remaining pizza sauce over the top. Add your desired toppings, like pepperoni slices and any other favorites.
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let the pie rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This rest time lets the layers set up nicely.
What to Serve Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie With
This Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or some crispy garlic bread to balance the richness of the pie. For drinks, consider serving it with a chilled soda or perhaps a glass of red wine for the adults. Feel free to mix it up with your favorite sides for a well-rounded meal!
Top Tips for Perfecting
To elevate your Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie to the next level, here are some handy tips:
- If you’re short on time, using store-bought pizza dough can save you a lot of effort.
- Experiment with toppings—add fresh veggies or your favorite meats to make it your own!
- Be careful not to overstuff; while it’s tempting, balancing the ingredients will keep your pie from overflowing.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. If you prefer freezing, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. This pie can last in the freezer for up to three months!
FAQs
Can I use a different meat?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat-free alternative for a lighter option.
What if I don’t have a deep dish pan?
No worries! You can use a regular pie dish; just be mindful of cooking times as it may vary.
How can I make it spicier?
Add more jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a delightful and filling meal, give this Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie a try! It’s an experience everyone will love, making it a fantastic addition to your recipe rotation. Gather your loved ones around the table, slice up the goodness, and share the joy! Don’t forget to comment on how it turned out for you!
Ingredients
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup pizza sauce (divided)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar (optional)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
- Pepperoni slices (for topping)
- Sliced jalapeños or mushrooms (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and bell pepper over medium heat until browned and tender. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup pizza sauce. Simmer for 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Grease a deep cake pan or cast iron skillet. Roll out pizza dough and press into the pan, bringing it up the sides.
- Layer half the mozzarella on the bottom, top with the beef mixture, cheddar (if using), and remaining mozzarella.
- Spoon the remaining pizza sauce on top. Add pepperoni slices and any optional toppings.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Let rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Experiment with toppings! Try spicy sausage, mushrooms, or olives. Store leftovers in the fridge for 3 days or freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.