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Stuffed Crust Pizza

  • Author: The Prestons
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Dough Rising Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4-6 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Stuffed Crust:

  • 8 ounces mozzarella string cheese (810 sticks)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

For the Toppings:

  • 1 cup pizza sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup sliced pepperoni (or toppings of choice)
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper (optional)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dough:

    • In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and olive oil. Pour in the yeast mixture.
    • Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  • Preheat Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
  • Shape the Dough:

    • On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a 14-inch circle. Transfer to a greased or parchment lined pizza pan.
  • Create the Stuffed Crust:

    • Place mozzarella string cheese sticks around the edge of the dough, leaving about 1 inch of dough exposed.
    • Fold the dough over the cheese sticks and press to seal. Brush the crust with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
  • Add Sauce and Toppings:

    • Spread pizza sauce evenly over the crust. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
    • Add pepperoni, olives, mushrooms, bell peppers, or your favorite toppings.
  • Bake:

    • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
  • Serve:

    • Let the pizza cool for a few minutes, then slice and enjoy your cheesy stuffed crust pizza.

Notes

  • You can use pre made pizza dough for a quicker option.
  • Stuff the crust with cheddar or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor.
  • Store leftover pizza in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet to maintain a crispy crust.