Description
Homemade Cheesy Stuffed Crust Pizza
Ingredients
:
For the Pizza Dough:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
For the Stuffed Crust:
1 cup string cheese or mozzarella sticks (cut into strips)
For the Toppings:
1 cup pizza sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
:
Prepare the Dough:
In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Stir until combined, then knead for 5-7 minutes on a floured surface until smooth.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Stuffed Crust:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large circle on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
Lay strips of string cheese along the edges of the dough, then fold the edges over to seal the cheese inside.
Assemble the Pizza:
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce. Add garlic powder, oregano, basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Bake the Pizza:
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and melted.
For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Serve:
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve and enjoy the cheesy stuffed crust!
This Homemade Cheesy Stuffed Crust Pizza is perfect for pizza lovers who enjoy a little extra cheesy indulgence!
Easy to make and incredibly delicious—get ready to enjoy every cheesy bite!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for a perfect stuffed crust every time. After letting your dough rise, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a circle about 14-16 inches in diameter. Transfer it to your prepared pizza pan or stone, ensuring the edges hang slightly over. Place the string cheese strips end-to-end about 1 inch from the edge. To seal, gently lift the overhanging dough and fold it over the cheese, pressing it firmly onto the inner dough circle. Use your fingers to crimp and pinch the seam securely; this prevents cheese leakage during baking. Par-bake the crust alone for 3-4 minutes before adding toppings to ensure a crisp bottom. Then, add your sauce and toppings and complete the baking.
Serving Suggestions
This rich, cheesy pizza pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. Serve with a crisp garden salad tossed in a tangy Italian vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a classic combo, offer garlic butter dipping sauce or a side of warm marinara for the crust. Chilled, homemade lemonade or a light beer makes an excellent beverage pairing. For a fun meal, set up a topping bar with options like pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives for guests to customize their slices.
How-to Summary
In summary, create a standard pizza dough and let it rise. Roll it out, line the edge with string cheese strips, and fold the dough over to seal. Par-bake the crust briefly, then add sauce, cheeses, and seasonings. Bake at 475°F (245°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden. Let cool slightly before slicing to allow the cheese to set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-made dough? Yes, store-bought pizza dough works well. Let it come to room temperature for easier stretching.
How do I prevent a soggy crust? Par-baking the sealed crust for a few minutes before adding toppings is key. Also, avoid over-saucing.
What cheese is best for stuffing? String cheese or low-moisture mozzarella sticks are ideal due to their melt and hold. Shredded cheese can leak out.
Can I make this ahead? You can prepare the dough and seal the crust with cheese, then refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking.
How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat in a skillet on the stove over medium-low heat with a lid to melt the cheese without burning the crust.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using water that is too hot for the yeast, which will kill it and prevent the dough from rising.
- Not sealing the dough over the cheese tightly enough, causing major cheese leakage in the oven.
- Overloading the pizza with wet toppings, which can lead to a soggy center.
- Skipping the brief par-bake for the stuffed crust, resulting in an undercooked dough layer under the cheese.
- Slicing the pizza immediately after baking, causing the molten cheese to ooze out completely.
Conclusion
Mastering homemade cheesy stuffed crust pizza is about technique: proper dough handling, a secure seal, and smart baking. This recipe transforms a classic favorite into an extra-indulgent treat perfect for gatherings or a special family dinner. With these detailed steps and tips, you can avoid common pitfalls and achieve a professional, delicious result. The joy of pulling a slice to reveal that stretchy, cheesy crust is well worth the effort. Happy baking!