The Simple Slim Kitchen 30-day meal planning system
30 DAYS OF MEALS
🍴 MAKE DINNER EASIER
Tired of Figuring Out What to Cook Every Night?
Get 62 simple recipes, a complete 30-day meal plan, weekly shopping lists and easy meal-prep guidance.
Complete Digital System — Just $17
SEE THE 30-DAY MEAL PLAN →
Instant digital access • One-time purchase
Japanese-style chef knife
UP TO 70% OFF
SMART KITCHEN UPGRADE
A Seriously Sharp Chef Knife Without the Premium Price.
Ice-hardened steel, a comfortable control grip, and a sharp edge made for slicing meat, vegetables, herbs and more.
SPECIAL ONLINE DEAL
FROM $24.99 EACH
with select bundle
SEE TODAY'S KNIFE DEAL →
60-day guarantee • Online offer

Cheesy Deep-Dish Pizza Recipe for a Cozy Night In

Cheesy Deep-Dish Pizza Recipe for a Cozy Night In

Craving a slice of warmth and comfort? This Cheesy Deep-Dish Pizza is your go-to recipe for a cozy night in. With its thick, buttery crust and a gooey layer of melted cheese, this pizza brings all the indulgence of a pizzeria right to your kitchen. It’s easy to make and perfect for satisfying those pizza cravings without the hassle of a takeout order.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Deep-Dish Pizza is not just about the taste; it’s about the experience. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

  • Comfort Food: Perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings.
  • Easy to Customize: Load it with your favorite toppings.
  • Impressive Presentation: Serve it straight from the pan for a rustic feel.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Dough can be prepared in advance.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup warm water (110°F)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup pizza sauce
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

How to Make Cheesy Deep-Dish Pizza

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Stir to mix well.
  2. Add the warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until combined, then knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
  3. Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan with the remaining olive oil. Place the dough in the pan and press it out to cover the bottom and sides. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  5. Once the dough has risen, spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. If desired, add dried oregano or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
  8. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Results

  • Make sure your water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
  • For an extra crispy crust, preheat the pan in the oven for a few minutes before adding the dough.
  • Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing to help maintain its structure.

Easy Variations

  • Meat Lovers: Add cooked sausage, pepperoni, or diced ham before baking.
  • Veggie Delight: Top with bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach for a fresh twist.
  • Cheesy Garlic Crust: Brush the crust with garlic butter before baking for a flavorful edge.

What to Serve With It

  • A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
  • Garlic breadsticks for that extra carb comfort.
  • A side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Recipe Card

Cheesy Deep-Dish Pizza
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup warm water (110°F)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup pizza sauce
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Stir to mix well.
  2. Add the warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until combined, then knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
  3. Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan with the remaining olive oil. Place the dough in the pan and press it out to cover the bottom and sides. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  5. Once the dough has risen, spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. If desired, add dried oregano or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
  8. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes: For added flavor, try different cheeses or toppings to match your cravings!

Your Next 30 Days of Meals — Already Planned
The Simple Slim Kitchen
Stop wondering what to cook every night. Get a complete 30-day meal system that makes meals, shopping & prep easier.
✓ 62 Recipes ✓ 30-Day Plan ✓ Shopping Lists ✓ Meal Prep
Get the complete digital system
$37 $17 TODAY
Instant Access  •  One-Time Purchase  •  60-Day Guarantee
No thanks, continue to CraveFinch.com
Scroll to Top