Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining a crispy crust, gooey cheese-filled edges, savory pepperoni, and melted mozzarella. This homemade recipe ensures you can enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures right from your own kitchen. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a party centerpiece, this pizza guarantees to impress pizza lovers of all ages.
Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Pizza:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for the stuffed crust)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing crust)
Instructions:
- Make the Dough:
- In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Roll out the dough into a large circle, slightly bigger than your pizza pan or stone.
- Place shredded mozzarella cheese along the edge of the dough, fold the dough over the cheese, and seal tightly to form the stuffed crust.
- Assemble the Pizza:
- Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Arrange pepperoni slices evenly across the pizza.
- Optionally, sprinkle Parmesan cheese and dried oregano on top.
- Bake the Pizza:
- Brush the stuffed crust with olive oil to ensure a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Serve:
- Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy your homemade masterpiece!
Conclusion:
Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza is the ultimate comfort food, offering a cheesy surprise in every bite. With its homemade dough and fresh toppings, this recipe is a perfect way to bring the pizzeria experience into your home. Serve it hot, and watch your family or guests savor every slice of this irresistible dish.
Tips:
- Cheese Options: Use string cheese sticks for easy stuffing or experiment with different cheese types like cheddar or Gouda.
- Crispier Crust: Preheat the pizza stone or pan in the oven before placing the pizza on it.
- Custom Toppings: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for a personalized touch.
- Freeze Dough: Make extra dough and freeze it for quick pizza preparation next time.
- Keep the Crust Sealed: Press firmly on the dough edges to prevent cheese leakage while baking.