Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stuffed crust pizza is the perfect combination of cheesy indulgence and hearty toppings. With the mozzarella-filled crust, each bite is an extra cheesy treat, offering something a little different than your standard pizza. The crispy exterior contrasts with the gooey, melty cheese, while the pepperoni, oregano, and garlic powder add that rich, savory flavor we all love. Plus, it’s customizable – you can always add more toppings to make it your own! Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this pizza is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Dough

• 350 g all-purpose flour
• 7 g instant dry yeast
• 1 tsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp fine sea salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 200 ml warm water

Stuffed Crust

• 150 g mozzarella cheese, cut into strips or use string cheese

Toppings

• 150 ml pizza sauce
• 200 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 80 g pepperoni slices
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 0.5 tsp garlic powder
• Olive oil, for brushing

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Dough
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant dry yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the olive oil and warm water, stirring to form a dough. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Stuffed Crust
   Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired pizza size. Place the mozzarella cheese strips along the edge of the dough. Carefully fold the dough over the cheese and pinch the edges together to seal, creating a stuffed crust.
3. Assemble the Pizza
   Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Place the stuffed crust pizza base onto a baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving the stuffed crust edges exposed. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then layer the pepperoni slices on top. Sprinkle the oregano and garlic powder over the pizza.
4. Bake the Pizza
   Brush the exposed crust edges with a little olive oil for a golden, crispy finish. Bake the pizza for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra pizza sauce if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave slices for 30-45 seconds if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for the stuffed crust?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like cheddar or provolone. However, mozzarella provides the best melt and stretch for a classic stuffed crust experience.

2. What can I use if I don’t have instant yeast?

You can use active dry yeast instead. Just activate it in warm water with sugar for about 5 minutes before using it in the dough.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it rise in the fridge overnight, then bring it to room temperature before shaping it.

4. Can I freeze the pizza dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough after it has risen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before using.

5. What toppings can I add to the pizza?

Feel free to add extra toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, or onions to customize the pizza to your liking.

6. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, if you’re short on time, store-bought dough works perfectly. Just roll it out and stuff the crust as directed in the recipe.

7. How do I get the crust extra crispy?

For a crispier crust, preheat your baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven while it’s heating up. This will give the pizza a crispier base once you place it on the hot surface.

8. Can I use marinara sauce instead of pizza sauce?

Yes, marinara sauce works fine as a substitute for pizza sauce. The flavor might be slightly different, but it will still taste delicious.

9. Can I use a gluten-free flour for the dough?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum for proper texture.

10. How do I know when the pizza is done?

The pizza is done when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. You can also check the bottom of the crust to ensure it’s cooked through.

Conclusion

This Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza is the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and flavorful. With its unique stuffed crust, hearty pepperoni topping, and gooey melted cheese, it’s an indulgent twist on a classic favorite. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or hosting a pizza night with friends, this pizza is sure to impress!

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