Stuffed to the Brim: How to Make a Decadent Stuffed-Crust Pizza
The experience of eating a perfectly-made stuffed-crust pizza is a thing of beauty. Its flaky and crisp outer layer can give way to a flavor-packed inside that sets it apart from your run-of-the-mill pizza. There is an art to making this decadent dish, and after mastering the basics, you’ll have a pizza that is sure to tantalize everyone from your pickiest eaters to the most dedicated pizza connoisseur.
Tricks for Creating a Perfectly-Stuffed Crust
Creating a stuffed-crust pizza is the perfect way to take your homemade pizza to the next level. To make it, you’ll first need to roll out the dough to the desired shape and size. Make sure it’s thin, but not too thin or it won’t hold the toppings.
For the perfect stuffed-crust pizza, use a round pan or one with sides. This will prevent the filling from spilling over the edge. If you’re using a pizza stone, you’ll need to build up a rim of dough around the edge of the pan. Once the dough is lined, brush the edges with a little olive oil to help the crust turn crisp and golden.
Delicious Stuffing Ideas to Try
The stuffing is the star of the show when it comes to stuffed-crust pizza. The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to the filling. Some of the most popular options include cheese, sausage, and pepperoni. You can also get creative and try different herbs and spices, such as dried oregano and garlic, to give the pizza an even tastier crunch.
One of the most indulgent stuffing ingredients is bacon. For the ultimate bacon-stuffed-crust pizza, dice up a pound of bacon and cook it until it’s crispy. Then, toss it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and some freshly chopped herbs. This mix is perfect for stuffing in the edge of the pizza dough.
Cheeseburger-stuffed pizza is also a great option. Simply brown some lean ground beef, add diced onion and garlic, and season with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. Once the beef is cooked, set aside and let cool. Then, mix in freshly grated Cheddar cheese and use this mixture to stuff the edge of the pizza dough.
Tips for Baking a Stuffed-Crust Pizza to Perfection
Once you’ve mixed the stuffing and lined your pizza, it’s time to bake. Preheat your oven to the desired temperature. For a traditional stuffed-crust pizza, aim for a hot oven, about 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help the crust turn golden and crisp and the cheese melt to perfection.
Once you place the pizza in the oven, you’ll want to keep an eye on it throughout the baking process. Set a timer so you remember to check on the pizza. The length of baking time varies based on your oven, but it shouldn’t take too long—about 20 minutes is usually sufficient.
When the pizza appears to be done—the edges should be golden brown and the cheese should be bubbly—it’s ready to come out! If you want to be sure it’s cooked through, stick a wooden skewer or knife into the center of the pizza to see if the dough is cooked.
Conclusion
Stuffed-crust pizza may sound intimidating to make, but with the right tips and tricks, you can create a beautifully decadent pizza that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Start by rolling out the dough, adding an olive oil brushed rim, and stuffing the edges with your favorite ingredients. Then, pop the pizza in the oven and bake until it’s golden, crispy, and oozing with melted cheese. With a few simple steps, you can have a pizza that rivals even the fanciest restaurants.
