Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 1/2 cups
- Active dry yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons
- Warm water: 1 cup (105-115°F)
- Olive oil: 1/4 cup, plus more for greasing
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Canned crushed tomatoes: 28 ounces
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Mozzarella cheese: 16 ounces, shredded
- Italian sausage: 1 pound, cooked and crumbled
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy. Add olive oil and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 2: First Rise: Grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Step 3: Prepare the Sauce and Sausage: While the dough rises, simmer the crushed tomatoes and oregano in a saucepan over low heat for about 20 minutes. Cook and crumble the sausage.
- Step 4: Assemble the Pizza: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9-inch deep-dish pizza pan or cast iron skillet with olive oil. Punch down the dough and press it into the pan, working it up the sides to create a raised edge.
- Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake: Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Spread the crumbled sausage evenly over the cheese and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 6: Cool and Serve: Let the pizza cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Leftover pizza stores best in the fridge, wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap, to prevent drying out.
- Reheat individual slices in a skillet over medium-low heat for a crispy crust, adding a splash of water and covering for a steamy, cheesy refresh.
- Serve this deep-dish delight with a simple side salad to cut through the richness and add a refreshing contrast.
- For extra flavor, brown the crumbled sausage with a pinch of red pepper flakes and a clove of minced garlic before adding it to the pizza.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American