Deep-Dish Cheesy Beef Pizza
Description
This Deep-Dish Cheesy Beef Pizza is the ultimate comfort-food treat! It features a thick, golden-brown crust filled with seasoned ground beef, plenty of gooey melted mozzarella cheese, and a rich, chunky tomato sauce. The deep-dish style gives every slice a hearty combination of crispy crust, savory beef, stretchy cheese, and flavorful sauce. Perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, game nights, or whenever you’re craving an extra-cheesy homemade pizza!
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For the beef filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the pizza:
- 2½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups pizza or marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, olive oil, and melted butter. Knead until a soft dough forms.
- Let it rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Cook the beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, then drain excess grease.
- Prepare the pan: Grease a deep-dish pizza pan or round cake pan generously with olive oil or butter.
- Shape the crust: Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pan, creating a deep crust.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella over the bottom of the crust. This helps create a delicious cheesy layer underneath the beef.
- Add the beef: Spread the seasoned ground beef evenly over the cheese.
- Add the sauce: Spoon the tomato sauce over the beef and spread it gently to cover the entire surface.
- Finish with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top. Add oregano and a little chopped parsley or basil.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 25–35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Rest and serve: Let the pizza rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers stay together and makes serving easier.
🍽️ Serving Tip
Serve hot with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, crushed red pepper flakes, or a side salad. For an even richer flavor, drizzle a little garlic butter over the crust just before serving.
