If you’re craving a crowd-pleasing, cheesy delight that wraps all your favorite flavors into one beautiful package, this Pizza Pie with Pepperoni and Italian Cheese Blend Recipe will become your new go-to. It perfectly combines the savory zing of pepperoni, the richness of an Italian cheese blend, and the comforting embrace of homemade dough baked golden brown. Whether you’re after a unique twist on traditional pizza night or a fun pie to share, this recipe is as simple as it is scrumptious, delivering layers of flavor and texture that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredient list straightforward means you can focus on quality and freshness—each item plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of crispy crust, gooey cheese, and flavorful topping in your pizza pie.
- 1 lb pizza dough: Your trusty foundation for a tender, slightly chewy crust that holds all the fillings beautifully.
- 2 cups shredded Italian cheese blend: A mouthwatering mix of cheeses that melts evenly and adds that irresistible savory depth.
- 1 cup vodka sauce: A luscious, creamy tomato sauce that adds a subtle tang and richness to every bite.
- 2 oz pepperoni (sliced): Pepperoni slices pack a punch of spice and smokiness, giving your pie a classic, satisfying flavor.
- 1 egg beaten: This helps brush on top for a golden, shiny crust with an inviting appearance.
How to Make Pizza Pie with Pepperoni and Italian Cheese Blend Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Pan and Dough
Start by greasing a 10-inch pie pan to ensure the crust doesn’t stick and comes out flawlessly. Next, take half of your pizza dough and press it into the pan, shaping it to cover the bottom and sides evenly—this base forms the sturdy shell that will cradle all your delicious fillings.
Step 2: Layer with Cheese, Sauce, and Pepperoni
Now comes the exciting part: layering. Begin by sprinkling the shredded Italian cheese blend across the dough to create a melty blanket. Spoon your vodka sauce over the cheese, spreading it generously to ensure every slice bursts with flavor. Finally, scatter those spicy pepperoni slices evenly atop to add a savory zing with each bite.
Step 3: Seal with the Remaining Dough
Take the remaining half of the dough and gently cover the filling, folding the edges under to seal your pie. This top crust not only locks in moisture but also gives the pie that classic, comforting look.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake to Perfection
Brush the beaten egg over the top crust to achieve a golden and glossy finish. Cut three slits into the dough to let steam escape while baking. Pop your masterpiece into a 400-degree oven for about 35 minutes until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown, signaling it’s ready to impress and delight.
How to Serve Pizza Pie with Pepperoni and Italian Cheese Blend Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or oregano sprinkled on top add a bright, fragrant pop that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese and sauce. A light drizzle of olive oil can also enhance the pie’s flavor and give an inviting sheen.
Side Dishes
Pairing your pizza pie with a crisp Caesar salad or a tangy arugula salad cuts through the richness and adds refreshing crunch. Garlic knots or roasted vegetables make complementary sides that round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your pizza pie into wedges and serve on a rustic wooden board for a cozy, inviting look. For a fun twist, offer a variety of dipping sauces on the side, like spicy marinara or a creamy ranch, letting guests customize each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover pizza pie completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked pizza pie by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and foil, keeping it fresh for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual for a fast and impressive homemade meal anytime.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers, warm slices in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 8–10 minutes to crisp the crust and melt the cheese back to molten perfection. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that lovely crisp texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough works wonderfully and saves time while still delivering a delicious crust that supports all the fillings perfectly.
What type of cheese is in the Italian cheese blend?
A classic Italian cheese blend often includes mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and sometimes Asiago, ensuring a perfect balance of meltability and flavor.
Is vodka sauce necessary, or can I use regular tomato sauce?
Vodka sauce adds creaminess and subtle depth, but regular tomato sauce also works well if you prefer a lighter flavor or want to keep it simple.
How can I make this pizza pie spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or layer in spicy pepperoni to up the heat—just tailor it to your heat preference!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the pepperoni and add extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about creating a Pizza Pie with Pepperoni and Italian Cheese Blend Recipe from scratch—each step builds anticipation until you’re rewarded with that first glorious, cheesy, pepperoni-topped bite. This recipe is a heartfelt, easy way to bring friends and family together over food that comforts and excites. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen, just like it did in mine!
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Pizza Pie with Pepperoni and Italian Cheese Blend Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A delicious homemade pepperoni pizza pie with a crispy golden crust, layered with a generous blend of Italian cheeses, tangy vodka sauce, and savory pepperoni slices. This easy-to-make recipe yields a satisfying pizza perfect for a family dinner or casual meal.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough
- 1 lb pizza dough
Filling
- 2 cups shredded Italian cheese blend
- 1 cup vodka sauce
- 2 oz sliced pepperoni
Topping
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Pan: Grease a 10-inch pie pan thoroughly to prevent sticking. Then, line the bottom of the pan with half of the pizza dough, pressing it evenly to cover the base.
- Add Fillings: Spread the shredded Italian cheese evenly over the dough base. Pour the vodka sauce on top of the cheese and evenly distribute the sliced pepperoni across the sauce layer.
- Top with Remaining Dough: Cover the filling with the remaining half of the pizza dough. Fold the edges of the top dough under the edges of the bottom dough to seal the pie.
- Egg Wash and Slits: Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg to give a golden, glossy finish once baked. Cut three slits into the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Bake the Pizza Pie: Place the pie in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
Notes
- Ensure the dough is rolled evenly for consistent baking.
- The egg wash enhances browning and shine on the crust.
- The three slits prevent the pie from becoming soggy by allowing steam to escape.
- Let the pizza pie cool for a few minutes before slicing for easier serving.
- You can substitute the vodka sauce with marinara or your favorite pizza sauce if desired.
