Pizza pie blends the rich flavors of pizza with the hearty appeal of a savory pie. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is as versatile as it is satisfying. With customizable toppings and an easy-to-follow process, pizza pie is guaranteed to delight everyone at the table.
Ingredients for a Perfect Pizza Pie
For the Crust:
- 3¼ cups all-purpose or bread flour
- ½ cup cornmeal
- 1¼ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1¼ cups warm water (105–115°F)
For the Filling:
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 pound cooked Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups pizza sauce
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced bell peppers
- Mushrooms
- Onions
- Black olives
Tools You’ll Need:
- 14-inch deep-dish pizza pan (or two 9-inch cake pans)
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or stand mixer
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pizza Pie
1. Prepare the Dough
- Combine flour, cornmeal, salt, sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl.
- Gradually add olive oil and warm water, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
3. Assemble the Pizza Pie
- Divide the dough into two portions. Roll out one portion to line the bottom and sides of your pan.
- Layer mozzarella cheese, cooked sausage, pepperoni, and other toppings inside the crust.
- Pour pizza sauce over the layers, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Roll out the second dough portion and place it over the filling. Pinch the edges to seal and cut small slits on the top to allow steam to escape.
4. Bake and Serve
- Bake the pizza pie in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Let the pie cool for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Tips for Perfecting This Recipe
- Crispy Crust: Use a preheated pizza stone or baking steel to bake your pizza pie for a crispier bottom crust.
- Moisture Control: Pre-cook vegetables to reduce their water content before adding them to the filling.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with cheeses like provolone or gouda for unique flavors.
- Storage: Leftovers stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven for best results.
Variations to Try
Vegetarian Savory Pie
Replace meat with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers.
Meat Lover’s Deep-Dish Pizza
Include sausage, pepperoni, bacon, and ham for a heartier meal.
White Cheesy Pie
Swap tomato sauce for Alfredo or garlic-infused olive oil. Add ricotta and spinach for a creamy twist.
FAQs ABOUT Pizza Pie
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, pre-made dough is a great shortcut. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
Can I freeze pizza pie?
Absolutely. Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat directly in the oven for best results.
How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Pre-bake the bottom crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling to prevent sogginess.
What’s the best pan to use?
A deep-dish pizza pan or cast-iron skillet works best for even cooking and a crispy crust.
Outbound Links
- Learn more about crispy crusts: How to Use a Pizza Stone
- Discover more pizza-making tips: King Arthur Baking’s Pizza Tips
- Get creative with toppings: Best Pizza Topping Ideas
Internal Links
- Pair your pizza with a side: Easy Garlic Bread Recipe
- Serve with a salad: Fresh Salad Recipes
Conclusion
Pizza pie is the ultimate comfort food, offering the deliciousness of pizza in a pie-inspired presentation. This versatile dish can be customized for any preference, from vegetarian options to hearty meat lovers’ variations. Perfect for family meals or special occasions, this cheesy delight is sure to impress.
So why wait? Try making pizza pie today and pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for the ultimate meal experience.