Description
A thick, buttery crust filled with layers of gooey cheese, rich tomato sauce, and savory toppings, baked to perfection in a deep pan.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, mix yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, and salt. Add melted butter, olive oil, and yeast mixture. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar. Simmer for 15 minutes, then set aside.
- Assemble the Pizza: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a deep-dish pizza pan or cast-iron skillet with olive oil. Roll out dough and press into the pan, covering the bottom and sides.
- Layer mozzarella cheese first, followed by cooked sausage and pepperoni. Pour sauce over the top and spread evenly. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, saucy goodness!
Notes
- For an extra crispy crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
- Substitute Italian sausage with mushrooms, bell peppers, or black olives for a veggie version.
- Use low-moisture mozzarella to prevent excess liquid in the pizza.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pizza
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
