Deep-Dish Pizza Pie (Print-Friendly Version)

A crowd-pleasing dish combining thick golden crust with gooey cheese, savory meats, and fresh vegetables for a hearty, comforting meal.

# Ingredients:

→ For the Crust

01 - 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 tsp sugar
03 - 1 tsp salt
04 - 1 cup warm water
05 - 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
06 - 2 tbsp olive oil

→ For the Filling

07 - 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
08 - 1 cup pizza sauce
09 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
10 - ½ cup cheddar cheese (optional)
11 - ½ cup sliced mushrooms
12 - ½ cup sliced green bell peppers or jalapeños
13 - Pepperoni slices

→ Toppings

14 - Additional shredded mozzarella
15 - Extra pepperoni and vegetables for garnish

# Steps:

01 - In a small bowl, mix warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Add yeast mixture and olive oil, then mix until dough forms. Knead dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for 1 hour.
02 - In a skillet, brown ground beef or sausage over medium heat. Drain excess fat. Stir in pizza sauce and cook for 5 minutes. Set aside.
03 - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll dough into a large circle and press it into a greased deep baking or springform pan. Trim excess dough. Layer shredded mozzarella cheese on the crust base. Add the meat filling, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Repeat with cheese and fillings as desired. Top with extra mozzarella and pepperoni slices or other garnishes.
04 - Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
05 - Slice into portions and serve warm. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

# Notes & Tips:

01 - Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for extra heat.
02 - Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a twist.
03 - Assemble the pie a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.