If you’ve ever dreamed of sinking your teeth into a slice of warm, cheesy, and hearty pizza that feels like a hug from the inside, then this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe is here to make that dream a delicious reality. Bursting with savory Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and layers of gooey mozzarella, this pie offers the perfect blend of textures and flavors that define comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this deep-dish pizza will quickly become your new favorite indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the secret to this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe’s incredible taste and texture. Every component plays its part, from the spicy, flavorful Italian sausage to the melty mozzarella that blankets the pie in cheesy goodness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the sausage and onions, adding a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed): The meaty heart of the pie, delivering bold, savory flavor.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds a touch of sweetness and depth when cooked down.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with that irresistible aroma and a hint of spice.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The base of the tangy, lightly seasoned sauce that ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds classic Italian herbaceous notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings a sweet, aromatic punch to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances overall flavor without overwhelming the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick for those who like a little spice.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The melty, gooey layer that makes every bite irresistible.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A salty, nutty accent that tops the pie beautifully.
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade): The sturdy, buttery crust that holds all the deliciousness.
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal (for dusting): Prevents sticking and adds a lovely crunchy texture to the crust’s base.
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted): Brushed on the crust edges for a golden finish and rich flavor.
How to Make Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Pan and Sauce
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and start by greasing a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan or cast-iron skillet. Sprinkle the pan with cornmeal to give the crust a delightful crunch while baking. Next, heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Brown the Italian sausage thoroughly, breaking it up so it cooks evenly. Add the diced onions and cook until they soften and become sweet and translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing its wonderful fragrance to fill your kitchen. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them — simmer this flavorful sauce for about 10 minutes until it thickens just a bit. This step is where the magic begins as your homemade sauce develops its charm.
Step 2: Shaping the Dough
While the sauce simmers, take the pizza dough and roll it out into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Don’t rush this part; the shape determines how your crust will hold the filling. Gently press the dough into your prepared deep-dish pan, making sure the edges come up and create a little rim to contain all the cheesy, saucy goodness.
Step 3: Layering the Ingredients
Begin by sprinkling half of your shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough bottom. This layer forms a barrier, keeping the crust from getting soggy. Next, spread the sausage and tomato mixture across the cheese, letting those juiciness and meaty bits settle in. Top everything with the remaining mozzarella and finish by sprinkling on the Parmesan cheese for that perfect salty crunch and rich taste.
Step 4: Baking to Perfection
Brush the exposed dough edges with melted butter to ensure a beautiful golden crust. Slide your pan into the hot oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye out for that golden brown, bubbly topping—a sure sign your Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe is ready. Once baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes; this resting time helps the layers set, so your slices come out perfect and clean.
How to Serve Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To complement the rich and savory flavors of this deep-dish pizza, fresh torn basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped fresh oregano can brighten it up beautifully. A drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or a few crushed red pepper flakes add an extra touch that makes each slice more decadent and inviting.
Side Dishes
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the richness of the pie, offering a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or even a light soup make excellent sides that round out the meal without overpowering the pizza’s vibrant flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or turn dinner into a festive occasion, serve your Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe directly in a cast-iron skillet for rustic charm. Alternatively, cut the pie into hearty squares and arrange them on a wooden cutting board, garnished with fresh herbs and perhaps a bowl of spicy marinara for dipping. Your friends will never forget the experience!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover deep-dish pizza is a treasure for the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it will keep well for up to 3 days without losing flavor or texture. The sturdy crust holds up nicely, preventing sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe at a later time, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the whole pie tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To defrost, move it to the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crispy and the texture perfect, as the oven brings it back to life much better.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Ground beef works as a great alternative and still delivers plenty of flavor. You can also consider mixing spices like fennel or paprika to mimic sausage seasoning.
Is it necessary to let the Deep-Dish Pizza Pie cool before slicing?
Yes, resting the pizza for 10 minutes after baking is really important. It helps set the cheese and sauce layers, so the slices hold their shape and don’t fall apart.
Can I add vegetables to this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe?
Definitely! Sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives all make wonderful additions. Just sauté them with the sausage or sprinkle on top before baking for extra flavor and texture.
What type of pizza dough is best for this recipe?
Both store-bought and homemade pizza dough work well. The key is to have a sturdy but tender dough that can withstand the heavy filling without becoming soggy.
How spicy will this pizza be with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a mild heat that many find delicious but not overwhelming. If you prefer less spice, feel free to omit them or reduce the amount to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience full of warmth, satisfying flavors, and memories waiting to be made. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved classic for good reason. So don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into creating your own slice of happiness today!
Print
Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Deep-Dish Pizza Pie features a rich, hearty sausage and tomato sauce layered beneath melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses in a thick, buttery crust. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, this Chicago-style pizza is a comforting and satisfying main course that brings authentic pizzeria flavors to your home kitchen.
Ingredients
Sauce and Toppings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Crust
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal (for dusting)
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan or cast-iron skillet and dust it with cornmeal to prevent sticking and add texture to the crust.
- Cook the sausage mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, cooking until browned and crumbled. Stir in diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in crushed tomatoes along with oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Roll and prepare dough: Roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, ensuring the edges come up around the sides to form a deep crust.
- Assemble the pizza: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough base. Spread the warm sausage-tomato sauce evenly over the cheese. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle grated Parmesan over everything. Brush the exposed dough edges with melted butter for a golden, flavorful crust.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese bubbles to a perfect melt.
- Rest and serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute Italian sausage with ground beef or a vegetarian alternative for different flavors or dietary needs.
- Adding sliced bell peppers or mushrooms to the sausage mixture can boost the vegetable content and flavor.
- For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before layering the toppings.
