Deep-Dish Pizza Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
2 tsp sugar
1 tbsp active dry yeast
1 cup warm water
2 tbsp olive oil
For the Filling:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb Italian sausage, crumbled
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
For the Crust:
2 tbsp unsalted butter (for greasing)
1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
Make the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients and mix to form a dough.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
In a skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and salt/pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened, then remove from heat.
Assemble the Pizza:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Grease a deep-dish pizza pan or a round cake pan with butter and drizzle with olive oil.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a circle slightly larger than the pan. Place the dough in the pan and press it up the sides to form a crust.
Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese on the bottom of the dough.
Pour the sausage and vegetable mixture over the cheese, spreading it evenly.
Add another layer of mozzarella cheese, followed by the parmesan cheese.
Bake:
Bake the pizza for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and slightly crispy, and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned on top.
Allow the pizza to cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve:
For the perfect shot, pull away a slice to reveal the stretchy mozzarella cheese, showing off the layers of toppings and golden crust. Serve in a cozy, lived-in home dining setting with a cold soda on the side and a crumpled napkin for that authentic, comforting vibe.
Enjoy this hearty, cheesy deep-dish pizza with rich textures and flavors that will make it look as amazing as it tastes! Would you like any adjustments to this recipe or tips for photographing it?