Description
A hearty deep dish pizza loaded with juicy meatballs, savory pepperoni, rich tomato sauce, and layers of melted cheese baked in a thick, buttery crust.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (halal)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal (for pan)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix and knead into a soft dough. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
- In another bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan, oregano, salt, and pepper. Form small meatballs.
- Bake meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until cooked through.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a deep dish pan and sprinkle with cornmeal.
- Roll out dough and press into the pan, covering the bottom and sides.
- Layer mozzarella cheese on the dough, then add meatballs and pepperoni slices.
- Pour sauce evenly over the toppings and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use halal pepperoni to keep the dish compliant.
- Let the pizza rest before slicing to maintain structure.
- Use a cast iron skillet for a crispier crust.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms if desired.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American