Pepperoni Stuffed Pizza
A savory pepperoni stuffed pizza with gooey cheese and flavorful sauce, perfect for satisfying pizza cravings and ideal for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, yeast, and salt; mix well.
- Stir in hot water and oil.
- Turn out on a floured surface and knead for 1 minute.
- Let rise for 5 minutes.
- Divide dough into two portions, with one slightly larger.
- Place the larger portion in a well-greased 10-inch spring-form pan.
- Overlap slices of pepperoni to cover the dough in the pan, using half of the pepperoni.
- Sprinkle cheese evenly over the pepperoni.
- Top with the remaining pepperoni.
- Pat out the rest of the dough to form a circle large enough to cover the pan.
- Place the dough over the pepperoni and fold the edges back to seal.
- Brush the edges with water and pinch to form a curb; slash a few holes to let steam escape.
- Bake at 400°F for 40 minutes.
- Cool for 10 minutes.
- Remove from pan and transfer to a baking sheet.
- Pour spaghetti sauce over the top and bake until the sauce begins to bubble, about 8 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier crust, consider pre-baking the bottom layer of dough for about 10 minutes before adding the toppings. You can substitute the Mozzarella cheese with a blend of other cheeses like Cheddar or Provolone for added flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños between the layers. This dish is perfect for gatherings, similar to Appetizer Pizzas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pepperoni Stuffed Pizza with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a light Italian red wine, enhancing the flavors. You can also serve it with extra spaghetti sauce on the side for dipping. This dish is great for game day or family movie nights.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes until heated through. This method helps maintain the crust's texture compared to microwaving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepperoni Stuffed Pizza contains roughly 1142 calories, with 16g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1255mg per serving (55% 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 use a different type of meat in the stuffing?
Absolutely! You can replace pepperoni with other meats like cooked sausage, ham, or even grilled chicken. For a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Just ensure that any meat is fully cooked before adding it to the pizza.
What can I do if my dough isn't rising properly?
If your dough isn't rising, it might be due to water temperature or yeast freshness. Ensure your water is between 100°F and 110°F, as too hot can kill the yeast. Also, check the expiration date on your yeast package; using fresh yeast is crucial for a good rise.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time! After kneading, place it in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature before shaping and assembling your pizza.
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).