Irresistible Deep Dish Meatball Pizza Recipe for Pizza Lovers

Deep Dish Meatball Pizza is the kind of dish that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine a thick, buttery crust cradling savory, cheesy goodness and hearty meatballs, all smothered in rich tomato sauce. It’s like a cozy hug for your stomach that’s perfect for pizza nights or any gathering where you want to impress.

Now, picture this: a lazy Sunday afternoon where you’re channeling your inner pizza chef, the aroma of baking bread wafting through your home, making everyone gather around the kitchen like moths to a flame. This dish brings families together – it’s an experience as much as a meal. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will have your friends asking for seconds (and maybe thirds).

Ingredients for Deep Dish Meatball Pizza

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Use about 3 cups for the crust; it provides the right texture when baked.

• Active Dry Yeast: One packet will give your dough that delightful rise and fluffiness.

• Warm Water: Around 1 cup will activate the yeast; make sure it’s not too hot or too cold!

• Olive Oil: About 2 tablespoons adds richness to the dough and helps crisp the crust.

• Ground Beef: Use about 1 pound; this is the star of our meatballs!

• Italian Seasoning: A couple of teaspoons will enhance the flavor profile of your meatballs.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Approximately 2 cups offer that melty goodness everyone loves.

For the Sauce:

• Canned Crushed Tomatoes: One can (about 28 ounces) serves as a tasty base for our pizza sauce.

• Garlic Cloves: Three minced cloves add aromatic flavor to your sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Deep Dish Meatball Pizza

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Allow it to sit until frothy (about five minutes). Then mix in flour, olive oil, and salt until a dough forms.

Step 2: Let It Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about five minutes until smooth. Place it in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Make Meatballs

In another bowl, mix ground beef with Italian seasoning and salt. Roll into small balls (about one inch), then bake them at 375°F (190°C) on a lined baking sheet for about twenty minutes until browned.

Step 4: Cook the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about one minute). Add crushed tomatoes and let simmer while stirring occasionally for about ten minutes.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pizza

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once risen, spread the dough into a greased deep-dish pan, pushing up along the sides. Layer shredded mozzarella cheese on the bottom, followed by meatballs and then pour over the sauce.

Step 6: Bake

Pop your masterpiece into the oven and bake for about thirty-five to forty minutes until golden brown on top.

Transfer to plates and serve hot with extra cheese if you dare! Enjoy slicing through that crispy crust to reveal layers of cheesy goodness inside – pure bliss awaits!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the meatballs and baking them until golden. While they cook, make the dough and let it rise. Afterward, layer the ingredients in your deep dish pan: dough, sauce, meatballs, and cheese. Bake until bubbly for perfect results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in turkey or chicken for the meatballs for a lighter option. Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or gouda. Add veggies like bell peppers or olives for extra flavor and color!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, keeping that crust crispy and delicious.

Sometimes I whip up this Deep Dish Meatball Pizza when friends come over, and their reactions are priceless! It’s always a hit and never fails to bring everyone together around the table.

FAQs :

What is Deep Dish Meatball Pizza?

Deep Dish Meatball Pizza is a hearty twist on the classic Chicago-style pizza. It features a thick crust, generous layers of cheese, and savory meatballs simmered in marinara sauce. This pizza is baked in a deep pan, allowing it to hold a delicious amount of toppings and sauce. The combination of flavors creates a satisfying dish that appeals to both pizza lovers and meatball enthusiasts alike.

How do I make the crust for Deep Dish Meatball Pizza?

To make the crust for Deep Dish Meatball Pizza, begin by mixing flour, yeast, salt, and warm water. Knead the dough until smooth, then let it rise until doubled in size. Once risen, press the dough into a deep-dish pizza pan, ensuring it covers the sides well. Pre-bake the crust for about 10 minutes before adding your desired fillings like cheese and meatballs. This ensures a crispy base for your pizza.

Can I use store-bought meatballs for Deep Dish Meatball Pizza?

Absolutely! Using store-bought meatballs can save time and effort when preparing Deep Dish Meatball Pizza. Choose high-quality frozen or refrigerated meatballs to ensure great flavor. Simply heat them according to package instructions before adding them to your pizza. You can also enhance their taste by simmering them in marinara sauce for extra moisture and flavor.

What toppings pair well with Deep Dish Meatball Pizza?

Deep Dish Meatball Pizza pairs wonderfully with various toppings beyond just meatballs and cheese. Consider adding sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions for added flavor and texture. Fresh basil or oregano can elevate the taste further. If you’re feeling adventurous, try some spicy pepperoni or olives to bring an exciting twist to this delicious dish.

Conclusion for Deep Dish Meatball Pizza :

Deep Dish Meatball Pizza combines rich flavors with a satisfying texture that makes it perfect for any occasion. With its thick crust filled with gooey cheese and savory meatballs, this dish is sure to impress friends and family alike. Whether you choose to make your own dough or use store-bought ingredients, this recipe offers flexibility without sacrificing taste. Enjoy this heartwarming meal as a delightful treat any day of the week!

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Deep Dish Meatball Pizza

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Deep Dish Meatball Pizza is a comforting and indulgent twist on the classic pizza. With its thick, buttery crust filled with gooey mozzarella cheese, savory meatballs, and rich marinara sauce, this dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. This recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a satisfying meal that impresses family and friends alike. Get ready to savor every delicious bite!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8 slices 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit until frothy (about 5 minutes). Mix in flour, olive oil, and salt until a dough forms.
2. Let It Rise: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes. Place in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Make Meatballs: Mix ground beef with Italian seasoning and salt in another bowl. Roll into 1-inch balls and bake at 375°F on a lined baking sheet for about 20 minutes until browned.
4. Cook the Sauce: Sauté minced garlic in a saucepan over medium heat until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Assemble Your Pizza: Preheat oven to 425°F. Spread risen dough into a greased deep-dish pan. Layer mozzarella cheese on the bottom, followed by meatballs and sauce.
6. Bake: Bake for about 35 to 40 minutes until golden brown on top.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Swap turkey or chicken for meatballs for a lighter option. Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or gouda. Add veggies such as bell peppers or olives for extra flavor.