Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza

Ouadie Rhabbouron

📝 Step-by-Step Instructions

 

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Make the Dough

 

  1. In a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This is called "blooming" and confirms your yeast is active.

  2. Add the olive oil, salt, and 3 1/2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture.

  3. Mixing by hand: Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Add the remaining flour a little at a time only if the dough is too sticky.

  4. Using a stand mixer: Mix on low speed with the dough hook attachment for 5-7 minutes until the dough cleans the sides of the bowl.

  5. Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turn to coat, and cover with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel.

Step 2: Proof the Dough

 

  1. Place the covered bowl in a warm, draft-free spot.

  2. Allow the dough to rise for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 3: Prep and Shape the Crust

 

  1. Preheat your oven to $450^{\circ}\text{F}$ ($232^{\circ}\text{C}$). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating.

  2. Punch down the risen dough to release the air.

  3. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 16-inch circle.

  4. Carefully transfer the dough to a lightly oiled 14-inch pizza pan or baking sheet. The dough should hang over the edges by about an inch.

Step 4: Stuff the Crust

 

  1. Take the mozzarella string cheese sticks and, if needed, cut them in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces. Lay the pieces end-to-end in a circle around the inner edge of the dough, about 1 inch in from the perimeter.

  2. Lift the overhanging edge of the dough and stretch it slightly over the cheese. Pinch the dough firmly to the main body of the pizza to seal the cheese completely inside the crust.

  3. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Brush this mixture generously over the newly sealed, stuffed crust.

Step 5: Top and Bake the Pizza

 

  1. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, avoiding the stuffed crust area.

  2. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce.

  3. Arrange the pepperoni slices over the cheese.

  4. Bake the pizza for 15-20 minutes. The crust should be golden brown, the cheese bubbly and melted, and the pepperoni slightly crispy at the edges.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

 

  1. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool on the pan for 2-3 minutes.

  2. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

  3. Slice and serve immediately!

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