Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Pizza Base
01 -
1 lb pizza dough, store-bought or homemade
02 -
6-8 mozzarella string cheese sticks
03 -
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
→ Toppings
04 -
1/2 cup pizza sauce
05 -
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
06 -
20-25 slices pepperoni
→ Optional Seasonings
07 -
Garlic powder for sprinkling
08 -
Italian seasoning for flavor
09 -
Grated Parmesan cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 425°F. If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up. Otherwise, lightly grease a pizza pan or large baking sheet.
02 -
On a lightly floured surface, roll the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to your prepared pan or pizza stone.
03 -
Arrange the mozzarella string cheese sticks around the edge of the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border from the edge. Fold the dough over the cheese sticks and press firmly to seal, creating the stuffed crust.
04 -
Spread pizza sauce evenly over the center of the dough, leaving the stuffed crust border uncovered. Use the back of a spoon to spread it smoothly.
05 -
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, covering the entire sauced area for even melting.
06 -
Arrange pepperoni slices evenly across the pizza, spacing them so each slice gets a good amount.
07 -
Brush the stuffed crust with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or Parmesan cheese if desired for extra flavor.
08 -
Bake for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned on top.
09 -
Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes cutting easier. Serve warm and enjoy that cheesy stuffed crust!
# Notes:
01 -
String cheese makes the perfect stuffed crust - it melts beautifully and stays contained
02 -
A pizza stone creates a crispier bottom crust
03 -
You can customize with additional toppings like bell peppers or mushrooms