why make this recipe
Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza is a fun and delicious way to enjoy a classic favorite. The gooey melted cheese inside the crust adds an extra layer of flavor and excitement that makes every bite special. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, game nights, or just when you want something comforting and tasty. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to make at home!
how to make Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 20 to 25 pieces of turkey or beef pepperoni
- 6 to 8 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 2 cups mozzarella, shredded
- 1 pound fresh pizza dough
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- Garlic powder
Directions:
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First, turn your oven to 425°F. If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven now to heat up. If not, lightly grease your baking sheet or pizza pan.
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Dust your counter with flour and roll your dough into a big 12-inch circle. Once it’s round, move it onto your oiled pan or hot stone.
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Line up the mozzarella sticks near the edge of the dough, leaving about an inch from the rim. Fold the edge of the dough up and over the cheese, pinching it to tuck the cheese inside.
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Spread the pizza sauce over the middle of the dough without covering the stuffed crust. Add the shredded mozzarella on top of the sauce, then scatter the pepperoni slices all over.
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Use a pastry brush to coat the stuffed crust with olive oil or melted butter. For extra flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese on top.
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Bake in the oven for about 15 to 20 minutes. You want the edges to be golden, the cheese to be melty, and maybe a little brown on top.
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Once done, take the pizza out and let it sit on a rack for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. Slice it up and enjoy while it’s hot!
how to serve Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza
Serve your stuffed crust pizza hot and fresh out of the oven. It goes great with a side of additional pizza sauce for dipping. You can also add a simple salad or some garlic bread to make a full meal. Gathering with friends and family to enjoy this pizza makes it even better!
how to store Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza
To store any leftover pizza, let it cool down completely first. Place the slices in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the slices for up to 2 months.
tips to make Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza
- Make sure your dough is at room temperature before rolling it out to avoid cracking.
- Feel free to customize the filling in the crust! Try adding other types of cheese or even some cooked sausage.
- Experiment with different toppings on your pizza. Vegetables, olives, or different meats can be great additions!
variation (if any)
You can make this pizza vegetarian by skipping the pepperoni and adding your favorite veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach instead. Another fun variation is to use different types of cheese in your crust, like cheddar or provolone, for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?
A: Yes, store-bought pizza dough works well. Just follow the package instructions for rolling it out.
Q: How do I reheat leftover stuffed crust pizza?
A: You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warm. Alternatively, use a microwave for quicker results, but the crust may not stay crispy.
Q: Can I make the pizza ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the pizza and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it with plastic wrap and bake it fresh when you’re ready to eat!