**Hearty Pizza Pie: A Comforting Winter Delight**
February is the perfect time for hearty meals that warm the soul, and what better way to do that than with a delicious Hearty Pizza Pie? This dish ingeniously marries the comfort of a warm pie with the cheesy, savory allure of pizza. I am so thankful to share this recipe with you; trust me, your family will be begging for seconds! If you’d love to receive this recipe and more like it directly in your inbox, please subscribe!
**Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
This Hearty Pizza Pie is a magnificent blend of flavor and convenience. It’s filled with gooey cheeses, flavorful sausage, and a colorful medley of veggies, making every bite a delight! Not only does it taste incredible, but it’s also a breeze to prepare. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy weekend indulgence, this dish brings everyone together. Plus, who wouldn’t want a pizza that looks like a beautiful pie?
**Ingredients**
– 500 grams pizza dough
– 200 grams pizza sauce
– 150 grams mozzarella cheese, grated
– 100 grams cheddar cheese, grated
– 150 grams cooked Italian sausage, sliced
– 100 grams mushrooms, sliced
– 50 grams green bell pepper, chopped
– 50 grams red onion, sliced
– 30 grams black olives, sliced
– 10 ml olive oil
– 5 grams dried oregano
– 5 grams dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Necessary Tools**
– Pie pan
– Rolling pin
– Baking sheet
– Oven
– Mixing bowl
– Knife and cutting board
**Ingredient Swaps and Additions**
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste! Swap in pepperoni or ham instead of Italian sausage, or add spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. You can also replace mozzarella and cheddar with your favorite cheeses; gouda or feta can offer a delicious twist!
**Step-by-Step Instructions**
1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). The aroma of your baking pizza pie will be irresistible!
2. Roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle, allowing the thrill of anticipation to build.
3. Carefully place the dough into a greased pie pan, making sure the edges are covered beautifully.
4. Spread the rich and tangy pizza sauce evenly over the dough base.
5. Layer on the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses; the sight of all that cheese is heavenly!
6. Distribute the sliced Italian sausage, mushrooms, bell pepper, red onion, and black olives evenly on top; the colors are simply stunning.
7. Drizzle the olive oil over everything and sprinkle with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
8. Fold the excess dough edges over the filling in a decorative manner—it’s like giving your pie a stylish touch.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese bubbles with delight.
10. Remove from the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes, then slice it up and serve warm. Enjoy every mouthful!
**Serving Suggestions**
This Hearty Pizza Pie pairs perfectly with a fresh garden salad or some garlic bread on the side. A light drizzle of balsamic reduction can elevate the dish even further!
**Pro Tips for Success**
1. Make sure your pizza dough is at room temperature before rolling it out for easier handling.
2. Don’t overload the pie with toppings to ensure the crust cooks evenly.
3. Let the pie cool for a few minutes after baking for cleaner slices.
**Storing and Reheating**
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven for about 10 minutes at 180°C (350°F) until warm and bubbly.
**FAQ Section**
*Can I freeze this recipe?*
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked pie. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
*What can I use instead of pizza sauce?*
You can use marinara sauce, pesto, or even a homemade sauce made from crushed tomatoes and Italian herbs!
**Conclusion**
This Hearty Pizza Pie is not just a meal; it’s a warm invitation to gather around the table with loved ones. The delightful mix of flavors and textures makes it a sure favorite at home. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experiences! Remember to leave a review or tag your photos on Pinterest or Instagram; I can’t wait to see your creations!
**Nutritional Information** (approximate per serving)
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 32g
– Fat: 18g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sodium: 760mg
Dive into this recipe, and let the warmth of cooking comfort you this winter!
