Stuffed Crust Pizza (Printable)

Golden pizza crust stuffed with mozzarella, topped with rich tomato sauce and your favorite toppings.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 packet instant dry yeast
03 - 1 tsp sugar
04 - 1 tsp salt
05 - 2 tbsp olive oil
06 - 1 cup warm water

→ Cheese Filling

07 - 7 oz mozzarella cheese sticks or block mozzarella, cut into thin strips

→ Sauce & Toppings

08 - ¾ cup pizza sauce
09 - 7 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
10 - 1.75 oz pepperoni slices
11 - 1 small bell pepper, thinly sliced
12 - 1.75 oz sliced mushrooms
13 - 1 tsp dried oregano
14 - 1 tsp olive oil for brushing crust

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add olive oil and warm water. Mix until a soft dough forms.
02 - Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
03 - Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
04 - Preheat oven to 450°F.
05 - On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 13-inch circle. Transfer to a baking tray or pizza stone.
06 - Arrange mozzarella strips around the edge of the dough. Fold the dough over the cheese and tightly pinch to seal, creating a stuffed crust.
07 - Spread pizza sauce over the center. Top with shredded mozzarella, pepperoni, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Sprinkle with oregano.
08 - Brush the stuffed crust with olive oil for a golden finish.
09 - Bake for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
10 - Let cool slightly, slice, and serve hot.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The stuffed crust creates that irresistible cheese pull that makes everyone reach for the outer slice first
  • Homemade dough is surprisingly forgiving and way more satisfying than store bought
  • You control every topping and can make it exactly how your family loves it
02 -
  • Sealing the stuffed crust tightly is crucial or cheese will escape during baking and burn on your pan
  • Let the dough rise fully or the crust will be tough instead of light and airy
  • Do not overload the center with toppings or the middle will not cook through before the crust burns
03 -
  • Sprinkle cornmeal on your baking tray to prevent sticking and add crunch
  • Grate your own mozzarella instead of buying pre shredded for better melting
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