Description
Loaded Deep-Dish Pizza
Bring fresh flavors to the table with this veggie-packed deep-dish pizza! Perfect for family pizza night.
Ingredients:
1 lb pizza dough
1 cup marinara sauce
2 cups mozzarella cheese
1 cup spinach leaves
Sliced green bell peppers
Sliced tomatoes
Preparation:
Spread dough into a deep pan and bake for 5 minutes.
Layer marinara, mozzarella, spinach, peppers, and tomatoes.
Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes. Garnish with basil leaves.
#FreshFlavorPizza
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch deep-dish pizza pan or cast-iron skillet generously with olive oil.
2. On a lightly floured surface, stretch and press the 1 lb of pizza dough to fit the bottom and sides of your prepared pan, creating a thick crust edge.
3. Pre-bake the dough for 5-7 minutes to set its structure and prevent sogginess. Remove from oven.
4. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the par-baked crust.
5. Sprinkle 1.5 cups of the mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
6. Layer on 1 cup of fresh spinach leaves, followed by your sliced green bell peppers and tomatoes.
7. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
9. Remove from oven, let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil leaves before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty pizza directly from the pan for a rustic presentation. Pair it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete meal, offer a side of garlic breadsticks or roasted vegetable soup. A cold, crisp lager or a non-alcoholic sparkling lemonade complements the fresh flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
Prepare a deep-dish pan, pre-bake the pressed dough for 5-7 minutes, layer with sauce, cheese, spinach, peppers, and tomatoes, then bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely. While mozzarella is classic, a blend with provolone adds sharpness, and part-skim ricotta dolloped on top adds creaminess.
How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?
The key is the pre-bake (par-baking) step. Ensuring your marinara sauce is thick, not watery, also helps immensely.
Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough in the pan and prep all veggies ahead. Assemble just before baking for the best texture.
What other vegetables work well?
Mushrooms, red onions, artichoke hearts, and black olives are excellent additions. For heartier veggies like eggplant or zucchini, sauté them first to remove excess moisture.
Is store-bought pizza dough okay to use?
Yes, high-quality store-bought dough is a great time-saver. Let it come to room temperature for easier stretching.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid skipping the pre-bake step, as this leads to a doughy, undercooked center. Do not overload the pizza with wet vegetables, as they release moisture during baking. Ensure your oven is fully preheated before the pizza goes in for proper rise and browning. Finally, let the pizza rest for 5 minutes after baking; this allows the cheese to set slightly for cleaner slices.
Conclusion
This veggie-loaded deep-dish pizza is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that turns pizza night into a special occasion. By following the detailed steps and tips, you’ll achieve a perfectly crispy crust, melty cheese, and vibrant, fresh vegetable toppings every time. It’s a delicious, satisfying way to enjoy a homemade classic. #FreshFlavorPizza
