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Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe

This Chicago-style deep-dish pizza pie features a buttery, golden crust, layers of melty cheese, savory sausage, and a chunky, flavorful tomato sauce. A hearty, satisfying meal perfect for any pizza lover!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast or 2 ¼ tsp
  • ¾ cup warm water about 110°F
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 tbsp cornmeal for dusting

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1 lb Italian sausage mild or spicy
  • 1 large bell pepper chopped
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can 6 oz tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Additional:
  • Olive oil for greasing the pan
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions
 

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  • In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

  • In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir to combine and form a dough.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

  • Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

  • Grease a bowl with olive oil, place dough inside, and cover. Let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Prepare the Toppings

  • Brown sausage in a skillet, drain, and set aside.
  • Sauté chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
  • In a saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, sugar, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Assemble the Pizza

  • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9-inch round pan with olive oil. Roll dough into a 12-inch circle and place in the pan, pressing it along the sides.
  • Layer mozzarella cheese on the bottom, followed by sausage, sautéed vegetables, and sauce. Top with Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Bake the Pizza

  • Bake for 30-40 minutes until the crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbling. Let the pizza rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

  • You can use store-bought dough for a quicker option, but homemade dough provides a more authentic, buttery crust.
  • This pizza can be frozen before baking. Assemble the pizza, cover with plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time.
  • For a vegetarian version, swap sausage with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or your favorite vegetables.