Double Crust Pizza
A hearty double crust pizza featuring seasoned ground beef, mushrooms, green peppers, and a rich spaghetti sauce, topped with generous amounts of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 loaves frozen wheat bread dough, thawed ⓘ
- 1 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. cornmeal ⓘ
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 1 (6 oz.) can mushrooms, drained ⓘ
- 8 oz. sliced Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
- 1 small green pepper, cut in thin strips ⓘ
- 1 (15 1/2 oz.) jar extra thick spaghetti sauce ⓘ
- 2 tsp. crushed thyme ⓘ
- 1 tsp. crushed fennel seed ⓘ
Instructions
- Shape each loaf of bread dough into a ball; cover and let rise until nearly double in size.
- Punch down the dough, cover, and let rest for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for a few minutes before adding toppings. If you're short on time, substitute ground beef with cooked sausage or turkey. Feel free to add more vegetables, like spinach or zucchini, to boost nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheeses; try using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a unique flavor. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover meats and veggies in your fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your double crust pizza with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple Caesar salad pairs beautifully with this dish, or try a mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette. You can also offer a selection of dipping sauces, such as garlic butter or marinara. For a hearty meal, consider serving it alongside Fagioli for a comforting Italian-inspired spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for about 1-2 minutes, but this may result in a softer crust.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Double Crust Pizza contains roughly 1050 calories, with 36g protein, 160g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (128% of the Daily Value), calcium (114% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (100% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 945mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the double crust pizza before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled pizza before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This is a great way to have a homemade pizza ready for a busy night.
What can I use instead of wheat bread dough?
If you're looking for alternatives to wheat bread dough, consider using gluten-free pizza dough or puff pastry for a different texture. You can also make your own dough using flour and yeast, or even use store-bought pizza crust for a quicker option.
Can I add other toppings to my double crust pizza?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can add your favorite toppings such as pepperoni, olives, or artichokes. Just be cautious not to overload the pizza, as this can make it soggy. Make it your own by experimenting with different combinations!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).