Indulgent Deep-Dish Pepperoni Pizza

Pizza lovers, rejoice! This mouthwatering deep-dish pepperoni pizza is a feast for the senses. With its thick, buttery crust, generous layers of cheese, and savory pepperoni, this pizza is the epitome of indulgence. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or entertaining friends, this recipe will satisfy your cravings for a hearty, flavorful pizza.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup melted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt

For the Pizza:

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup sliced pepperoni
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup pizza sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing the crust)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the melted butter, olive oil, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Assemble the Pizza:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a circle to fit your deep-dish pizza pans.
- Grease the pizza pans with olive oil and press the dough into the pans, making sure to push it up the sides to form a thick crust.
- Spread a layer of mozzarella cheese over the dough, followed by a layer of pepperoni slices.
- Add another layer of mozzarella cheese, ensuring the cheese goes all the way to the edges of the dough.
Add the Sauce and Toppings:
- Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the top layer of cheese. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
- Brush the edges of the crust with olive oil and sprinkle with dried oregano and basil.
Bake the Pizza:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Perfect Deep-Dish Pizza:

Dough Rising: Allow the dough enough time to rise properly for a light and airy crust.
Cheese: Use high-quality mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
Sauce: Opt for a rich, flavorful pizza sauce to complement the hearty toppings.