If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a pizza that’s all about thick, comforting layers and bursting with rich flavors, then this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe is going to be your new favorite go-to. Imagine a golden, buttery crust hugging a savory sausage and veggie filling, all simmered in a vibrant tomato sauce and topped with ooey-gooey mozzarella. It’s the perfect dish to bring everyone together around the table for a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Trust me, once you try this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe, standard pizza nights just won’t be the same anymore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. These simple yet essential components come together to build a dish that is comforting, colorful, and absolutely irresistible.
- 1 pound Italian sausage: Provides rich, savory flavor and a satisfying meaty base for the filling.
- 1 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch that complements the sausage perfectly.
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper: Offers a mild bitterness and vibrant color for freshness.
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper: Brings sweetness and a beautiful pop of red to brighten the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and depth.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Provides juicy, fresh-tasting tomato chunks that balance the richness.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, tangy sauce that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds classic Italian herbal notes that elevate the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Enhances the sauce with sweet, aromatic undertones.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a subtle kick and balances the seasoning.
- 1 (10 oz) package refrigerated pizza dough: The foundation of your deep-dish crust, easy and flaky when baked.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the top for that bubbling, golden finish we all crave.
How to Make Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage and Veggie Filling
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cooking the Italian sausage, chopped onion, and bell peppers until the sausage is browned and the veggies are tender. Be sure to drain any excess grease—it’ll keep the filling rich but not greasy.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
Next, stir in the minced garlic, drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Let everything simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This slow melding brings out the savory and slightly sweet tomato flavor that makes the filling sing.
Step 3: Prepare the Pizza Dough Crust
While the sauce is simmering, press the refrigerated pizza dough into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Make sure the dough fits snugly—it forms that deep, buttery crust that you’ll love biting into.
Step 4: Fill and Bake
Pour the sausage and vegetable mixture into your dough-lined pie dish, making sure it’s evenly spread. Pop it into the preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20 minutes. This step lets the crust start cooking and the flavors combine even more.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove the pie from the oven, shower it with shredded mozzarella cheese, then return it to bake for another 10 minutes. This final bake melts the cheese into a bubbly, golden crown that’s impossible to resist.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Let your Deep-Dish Pizza Pie rest for about 5 minutes once it’s out of the oven. This makes slicing easier and allows the filling to set just right so each slice holds its hearty filling beautifully.
How to Serve Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley add a burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness that livens up each slice. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also add an enjoyable kick to your serving.
Side Dishes
The hearty nature of this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe pairs wonderfully with lighter sides like a crisp Caesar salad or a fresh garden salad to balance out the richness. Roasted garlic breadsticks or a simple bowl of marinated olives make easy, complementary options as well.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve each slice topped with a dollop of ricotta cheese or alongside a small bowl of marinara for dipping. If you’re hosting, cut the pie into smaller squares and arrange on a platter for an inviting appetizer spread that guests will be talking about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Deep-Dish Pizza Pie in an airtight container or cover tightly with foil. Refrigerate for up to 3 days to enjoy the flavors without sacrificing freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze this deep-dish pizza pie either before or after baking. Wrap it securely with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that amazing texture and flavor depth.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Ground beef is a fine substitute, though Italian sausage adds a unique seasoning that really brings the dish to life. If using beef, consider adding a teaspoon of fennel seeds or Italian seasoning to mimic that classic sausage flavor.
Is it necessary to drain the diced tomatoes?
Yes, draining the tomatoes prevents the filling from becoming too watery, which ensures your crust stays crisp and the filling keeps a nice, thick consistency.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the Italian sausage for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a delicious vegetarian version. Adding extra herbs and spices will keep the flavor profile bold and satisfying.
What type of cheese works best besides mozzarella?
While mozzarella is classic, you can mix in provolone or even a bit of sharp cheddar to give your Deep-Dish Pizza Pie an interesting twist. Just be sure to choose cheeses that melt well to maintain that gooey, cheesy top layer.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, the filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually helps deepen the flavors. Just bring it back to room temperature before filling your dough and baking.
Final Thoughts
This Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe is a total winner for anyone craving a meal that feels both nostalgic and exciting. It’s full of bold flavors, hearty textures, and that comforting vibe you want at the end of a busy day. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this pie will make your home smell irresistible and your family ask for seconds. So go ahead and try it—you’re about to discover a new pizza favorite that’s worth every bite!
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Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Deep-Dish Pizza Pie is a hearty, savory dish featuring a golden, thick pizza crust filled with a flavorful mixture of Italian sausage, sautéed vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfectly baked to achieve a crispy crust and bubbly cheese topping, this recipe serves as a satisfying meal for family and friends.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Dough and Cheese
- 1 (10 oz) package refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the pizza.
- Cook Sausage and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, chopped onion, and green and red bell peppers until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess grease to keep the filling less oily.
- Prepare Sauce Mixture: Stir in the minced garlic, drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to combine flavors well.
- Prepare Dough: Press the refrigerated pizza dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish, creating a thick crust to hold the filling.
- Fill Dough with Sausage Mixture: Spoon the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture carefully into the dough-lined pie dish, spreading it evenly.
- Initial Bake: Place the filled pie dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes until the crust starts to crisp and the filling heats through.
- Add Cheese and Continue Baking: Remove the pie from the oven, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, then bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let the deep-dish pizza stand for 5 minutes after baking to set before slicing and serving for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure to drain excess grease from the sausage to prevent a greasy pizza.
- You can customize the vegetables according to preference, such as adding mushrooms or olives.
- Letting the pie rest before slicing helps with cleaner slices and better flavor melding.
- Use a deep 9-inch pie dish to accommodate the thick crust and filling adequately.
