If you are craving a pizza that bursts with flavor and offers a delightful surprise in every bite, this Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Recipe is guaranteed to become your new favorite. Imagine a crispy golden crust wrapped around melty mozzarella cheese, topped with hearty slices of pepperoni and a bold, tangy sauce that perfectly balances every element. This pizza brings together textures and tastes in such a satisfying way, it feels like a celebration with every slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward pizza perfection. Each component plays a crucial role, from the fresh dough that forms a sturdy base to the vibrant sauce and generous cheese that create irresistible flavor and texture.
- Pizza dough (1 pound): Fresh dough gives you that soft yet crispy texture essential to great pizza crust.
- Mozzarella cheese sticks (6 to 8 sticks): These create the gooey stuffed crust that’s the highlight of this recipe.
- Shredded mozzarella (2 cups): Added on top for melty, stringy cheese goodness covering every bite.
- Pizza sauce (1/2 cup): Rich and tangy, this forms the flavorful base beneath the toppings.
- Pepperoni slices (20 to 25 pieces): Choose turkey or beef, each bringing a savory punch and slightly crispy edges when baked.
- Olive oil or melted butter (2 tablespoons): Brushed on the crust for a golden shine and added richness.
- Optional seasonings: Grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder add that extra layer of flavor.
How to Make Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to 425°F. If you have a pizza stone, place it inside now so it heats evenly, giving your pizza a fantastic crispy bottom. If not, lightly grease your baking sheet or pizza pan to prevent sticking and help the crust brown beautifully.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly dust your counter with flour to keep things from sticking, then roll your dough into a roughly 12-inch circle. This size balances a nice thin crust with enough surface area for all your toppings. Transfer the dough gently onto your prepared pan or heated pizza stone.
Step 3: Create the Stuffed Crust
Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a ring close to the edge of the dough, leaving about an inch of bare dough at the rim. Then, carefully fold that edge over the cheese and pinch it firmly to seal the sticks inside—this is what makes your crust ooze with cheesy goodness!
Step 4: Add Sauce and Toppings
Spoon the pizza sauce over the center of the dough, stopping before the stuffed crust edge. Next, sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously on top, then scatter your pepperoni slices evenly, making sure every slice gets a good amount of spicy, savory pep.
Step 5: Final Touches and Bake
Brush olive oil or melted butter over the stuffed crust for a glossy golden finish. For extra flavor, sprinkle on garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pop your pizza into the oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling, edges turn golden, and the pepperoni crisps slightly.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Take your pizza out and let it rest on a rack for about 5 minutes—this cooling period is key to avoiding a scalded mouth and helps the cheese set a bit. Then slice it up, serve, and get ready for pizza bliss.
How to Serve Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
One of the joys of this Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Recipe is how well it welcomes enhancements. Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes add a pop of color and a hint of herbal or spicy warmth that complements the strong flavors of the pepperoni and cheese perfectly.
Side Dishes
Since this pizza packs plenty of rich flavors, consider pairing it with lighter sides like a crisp garden salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted garlic broccoli. These provide balance and freshness, keeping the meal satisfying without feeling too heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, serve the pizza on a wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like ranch, extra marinara, or even a spicy honey drizzle to cater to different tastes. Cut the pizza into manageable wedges and let everyone dive in for a relaxed, festive vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If there’s any pizza left after your feast, store it in an airtight container or wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap to keep the crust from drying out. Leftover pizza tastes great the next day and saves you from cooking again!
Freezing
You can freeze leftover pizza by placing slices on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to a freezer bag or container. This prevents slices from sticking together and keeps your delicious Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Recipe handy for a quick meal anytime.
Reheating
To bring your pizza back to life, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes or until the crust is crispy again and cheese is melted. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use regular mozzarella instead of cheese sticks for the crust?
Regular shredded mozzarella won’t create the same gooey stuffed crust effect because the sticks retain their shape better during baking. For the iconic stuffed crust, mozzarella sticks are the best choice.
What can I substitute for pizza dough?
If you’re short on pizza dough, pre-made dough balls or even flatbreads can be used, but the stuffed crust technique works best with fresh pizza dough that you can stretch and seal around cheese sticks.
How do I make this pizza spicier?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some on top before baking. Alternatively, choose spicy pepperoni varieties to ramp up the heat.
Is this recipe suitable for making smaller pizzas?
Absolutely! You can scale down the dough and toppings for smaller personal pizzas, just remember to adjust baking times accordingly—smaller pizzas usually bake faster.
Can I prepare the pizza ahead of time before baking?
You can assemble the pizza and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking, but for the best texture, bake it fresh. If refrigerating, bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Final Thoughts
Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Recipe that delivers crunch, gooey cheese, and bold flavors in every slice. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a fun gathering, this pizza is a surefire way to impress without stress. So roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and get ready for a pizza night to remember!
Print
Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 Minutes
- Cook Time: 20 Minutes
- Total Time: 40 Minutes
- Yield: 8 Servings (1 large pizza)
- Category: Pizza Delights
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza features a crispy crust stuffed with gooey mozzarella sticks, topped with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, and a bold pizza sauce. Finished with a brush of olive oil or melted butter and optional seasonings, it delivers a deliciously melty and savory pizza experience perfect for any pizza lover.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 20 to 25 pieces of turkey or beef pepperoni
- 6 to 8 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 pound fresh pizza dough
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Optional Seasonings
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- Garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F and place your pizza stone inside to heat up if using one. If not using a stone, lightly grease your baking sheet or pizza pan to prepare it for baking.
- Prepare the dough: Lightly dust your countertop with flour and roll out the fresh pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Then transfer the rolled dough onto your greased baking sheet, pizza pan, or hot pizza stone.
- Stuff the crust: Arrange the mozzarella sticks along the edge of the dough, leaving about an inch space from the rim. Fold the dough edge up and over the cheese sticks, pinching it well to fully encase the cheese inside the crust.
- Add sauce and toppings: Spread the pizza sauce evenly in the center of the dough, avoiding the stuffed crust area. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then scatter pepperoni slices generously on top.
- Season and brush crust: Brush the stuffed crust with olive oil or melted butter using a pastry brush. For extra flavor, sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese over the crust.
- Bake the pizza: Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the crust is golden, the cheese is melted, and the toppings are slightly browned on top.
- Rest and serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest on a cooling rack for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious stuffed crust pepperoni pizza.
Notes
- If using a pizza stone, preheat it before placing the pizza for a crispier crust.
- Make sure to pinch the dough well around the cheese sticks to prevent them from leaking during baking.
- Customize your pizza with additional toppings if desired, but avoid overloading to maintain even cooking.
- Letting the pizza rest after baking helps the cheese set slightly for easier slicing.
- Use turkey pepperoni for a leaner option or beef pepperoni for a traditional flavor.
