Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza

Who doesn’t love a good slice of pizza? When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing quite like a stuffed crust pizza with pepperoni delight. The combination of gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and that irresistible stuffed crust will take your pizza night to a whole new level. With this recipe, I’m excited to show you how to create this delicious pizza right in your own kitchen.

Pizza has a special place in many people’s hearts (and stomachs). The stuffed crust variety, in particular, takes the classic favorite and adds a fun twist. Imagine a warm crust filled with melted cheese, and you’ve got the perfect canvas for your favorite toppings. This recipe is all about the joy of cooking and sharing a meal that brings everyone together. You can even customize it with different fillings or toppings based on your mood.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough – 1 pound (store-bought or homemade)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – 2 cups
• Stuffed crust cheese (string cheese works well) – 8 sticks
• Pepperoni slices – 1 cup
• Pizza sauce – 1 cup
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
• Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
• Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
• Parmesan cheese – 1/4 cup, grated (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your pizza bakes evenly and gets that perfect crust crunch.

Step 2:

Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a large circle. Make sure it’s big enough to hold all that cheesy goodness.

Step 3:

Take your string cheese sticks and lay them along the outer edge of the pizza dough. Fold the dough over the cheese and pinch it tightly to create the stuffed crust.

Step 4:

Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the center of the dough, leaving the stuffed edges exposed.

Step 5:

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and layer the pepperoni slices generously on top.

Step 6:

Brush the stuffed-crust edges with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and garlic powder. This will make it golden and flavorful.

Step 7:

Bake the pizza on a pizza stone or baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.

Step 8:

If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top right after you take it out of the oven.

Step 9:

Let it cool for a few minutes, slice it up, and get ready to enjoy your stuffed-crust pepperoni pizza.

Nutritional Information

This stuffed-crust pizza is a great source of protein and carbohydrates, but like all pizzas, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Each slice typically contains around 300-400 calories, depending on the thickness of the crust and the amount of cheese and toppings you add. Pair it with a fresh salad to balance out your meal.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, try using whole wheat pizza dough or a cauliflower crust. You can also substitute low-fat cheese and turkey pepperoni to make it a bit healthier. Adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can also boost the nutrient content without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

I like to serve this stuffed crust pizza with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. It adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the pepperoni perfectly. For a complete meal, consider pairing your pizza with a refreshing garden salad or some roasted vegetables.

Common Mistakes

One of the biggest errors is not sealing the stuffed crust properly. Make sure to pinch it well so the cheese doesn’t leak out while baking. Also, avoid overloading on toppings, as this can lead to a soggy pizza. Less is often more when it comes to pizza toppings.

Chef’s Notes

• For an extra kick, consider adding some banana peppers or jalapenos on top of the pepperoni.
• If you want more cheese in your crust, feel free to add extra string cheese sticks.
• This recipe is easily adaptable. If you prefer vegetarian options, simply skip the pepperoni and load up on your favorite veggies.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
  A1: Absolutely; Store-bought dough saves time and still tastes great.
• Q2: How do I reheat leftover pizza?
  A2: I recommend reheating it in the oven to maintain the crispiness. Just place it on a baking sheet at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
• Q3: Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
  A3: Yes, you can prepare the pizza, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

Enjoy diving into this stuffed-crust pizza with pepperoni delight. And if you’re looking for something a little different for your next meal, be sure to check out my recipe for Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole and Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. Cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so get creative in your kitchen.

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