Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie

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Stuffed Deep Dish Pizza Pie

Pizza lovers know that few things compare to the hearty indulgence of a stuffed deep dish pizza pie. With its buttery crust, savory filling, gooey melted cheese, and a rich tomato topping, this dish takes pizza night to a whole new level. It combines all the flavors of a classic pizza but in the form of a layered pie, creating a meal that is both comforting and impressive. Perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or whenever you want something extra special, this recipe is sure to satisfy every craving.

Ingredients

For the Crust

  • 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

For the Filling

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Topping

  • 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a deep-dish pie pan or a cast-iron skillet.
  2. Roll out the pizza dough and press it into the prepared pan, covering the bottom and sides. Leave a little dough hanging over the edge for sealing later.
  3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, and mushrooms (if using). Cook until vegetables are softened. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Drain excess grease and set aside.
  4. Spread half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese on the bottom of the crust.
  5. Add the cooked beef and vegetable mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
  6. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  7. Fold the overhanging dough over the edges of the filling. Roll out any extra dough and place it on top as a cover, sealing the edges. Cut a few slits to allow steam to escape.
  8. In a saucepan, heat olive oil and add the crushed tomatoes. Stir in oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavor.
  9. Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the top crust of the pizza pie.
  10. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
  11. Allow the pizza pie to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Why This Recipe Works

This stuffed deep dish pizza pie works because it layers classic pizza ingredients into a satisfying, sliceable meal. The buttery crust provides structure, while the layers of cheese and filling create richness in every bite. By topping the crust with tomato sauce before baking, the pie develops that classic Chicago-inspired flavor and texture, ensuring that each bite feels like comfort food at its finest.

Tips for Success

For the best results, use a sturdy pan like a cast-iron skillet, which helps the crust bake evenly and adds crispness. Make sure to let the pie rest before slicing, as this prevents the filling from spilling out too quickly. If you prefer a thinner crust, use slightly less dough or roll it out more thinly. Always taste the tomato sauce before adding it to the pie, adjusting the seasoning as needed to suit your preferences.

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Instead of ground beef, you can use Italian sausage, ground turkey, or even a mixture of meats. For a vegetarian version, load the filling with extra vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers. Cheese lovers can add provolone, fontina, or cheddar to create even more depth of flavor. You can also experiment with spicy toppings by adding crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the stuffed deep dish pizza pie with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. It pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine or a cold beer, making it perfect for a relaxed dinner with friends. For a fun family-style meal, slice the pie into generous wedges and let everyone dig in with their favorite dipping sauces on the side.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover pizza pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps the crust stay crisp, unlike microwaving, which can make it soggy. The pie can also be frozen; wrap slices tightly in foil and freeze for up to two months. Reheat directly from frozen for a quick and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Stuffed deep dish pizza pie is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the best elements of pizza in a hearty, pie-style presentation. With a golden crust, layers of cheese, a savory filling, and a rich tomato topping, this recipe delivers big flavors and satisfying portions. Easy to customize and perfect for sharing, it is a dish that deserves a permanent place in your meal rotation. Whether you are feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself, this pizza pie guarantees happy smiles and full stomachs.

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