Deep Dish Pizza Pot Pie

The combination of pizza and pot pie brings together the best of both worlds—indulgent flavors and a satisfying texture that warms the heart and fills the stomach. Deep Dish Pizza Pot Pie is not only comforting but also customizable, allowing you to choose your favorite pizza toppings to create a dish that reflects your personal taste. Whether you prefer classic pepperoni, veggies, or a combination of meats, this recipe can accommodate any flavor preference.

This dish is especially great for gatherings and special occasions, as it serves well and can feed a crowd. Imagine presenting a golden-brown pot pie at your table, filled to the brim with melted cheese and delicious toppings, ready to be served to eager guests. The aroma alone will have everyone’s mouths watering!

What You’ll Need Deep Dish Pizza Pie

To create a delicious Deep Dish Pizza Pot Pie, you will need a variety of ingredients and tools. Here’s a detailed list to ensure you have everything you need for the recipe.

Ingredients Deep Dish Pizza Pie

• Pizza Dough: The base of your pot pie, providing a flaky, buttery crust that encases the filling. You can either use store-bought pizza dough or make your own from scratch. If you're making your own, ensure it has enough time to rise and become pliable.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing vegetables and adding flavor to the filling. A high-quality olive oil can enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Onion: Chopped finely, it adds sweetness and depth to the filling. You can use yellow, white, or even red onions depending on your flavor preference.
• Garlic: Minced, for an aromatic kick that elevates the taste of the filling. Fresh garlic is recommended, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Bell Peppers: Diced; choose your favorite colors—green, red, or yellow—for added sweetness and a pop of color.
• Mushrooms: Sliced, they add an earthy flavor and texture to the filling. Feel free to substitute with other vegetables like zucchini or spinach based on your preference.
• Pepperoni: Sliced; this classic pizza topping brings flavor and a slight spiciness to the filling. You can also use sausage, ham, or even turkey pepperoni for a healthier option.
• Italian Sausage: Cooked and crumbled; this adds a rich, meaty flavor to the pot pie. You can use either spicy or mild sausage based on your taste.
• Pizza Sauce: The essential element that ties the filling together. You can use store-bought sauce or make your own with crushed tomatoes, herbs, and spices.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded; this is a must-have for a gooey, cheesy filling. You can also mix in other cheeses like provolone or Parmesan for extra flavor.
• Egg: For an egg wash to brush on the crust before baking, ensuring a golden brown finish.

Tools

• Large Skillet: For sautéing the vegetables and cooking the meat filling.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine the filling ingredients and mix everything thoroughly.
• Rolling Pin: To roll out the pizza dough for the crust.
• Pie Dish: A deep dish pie pan or a round casserole dish will work well for baking the pot pie.
• Pastry Brush: For applying the egg wash to the crust before baking.
• Aluminum Foil: To cover the pot pie if it begins to brown too quickly during baking.

How to Make Deep Dish Pizza Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough

Start by preparing the pizza dough. If you’re using store-bought dough, take it out of the refrigerator to allow it to come to room temperature, making it easier to work with. If you’re making your own dough, follow your favorite recipe and let it rise until doubled in size. Once ready, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until it is large enough to cover your pie dish with some overhang.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Next, add the diced bell peppers and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender. This step helps to develop the flavors of the filling.

Step 3: Cook the Meat

If you’re using Italian sausage, add it to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease if necessary. Then, add the sliced pepperoni to the skillet, stirring to combine. Finally, pour in the pizza sauce and mix well. Allow the filling to simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together. If the filling seems too wet, let it cook a little longer until some moisture evaporates.

Step 4: Assemble the Pot Pie

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pizza dough again if needed, then place the bottom crust in your greased pie dish. Trim the edges if necessary, leaving some overhang. Pour the filling into the crust, making sure to distribute it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the filling, adding as much or as little as you like.

Carefully fold the overhanging dough over the filling, creating a rustic edge. If you prefer, you can roll out additional dough to create a top crust, but the pot pie can also be left open-faced. If using a top crust, make sure to cut a few slits in it to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together an egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush the mixture over the crust using a pastry brush to give it a beautiful golden color while baking. This step enhances the visual appeal of your pot pie and helps it develop a nice shine.

Step 6: Bake the Pot Pie

Place the assembled pot pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through. If the edges start to brown too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once the pot pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice and serve. After cooling, cut into wedges and serve warm. The cheese will be gooey, and the flavors will be rich and comforting.

Serving and Storage Tips Deep Dish Pizza Pie

Deep Dish Pizza Pot Pie is best enjoyed fresh from the oven while the crust is still crispy and the cheese is melty. Serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also pair it with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

If you have leftovers, allow the pot pie to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze the pot pie before baking for a convenient meal option. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to bake it, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before following the baking instructions.

Mistakes to Avoid Deep Dish Pizza Pie

• Using Wet Filling: Be cautious not to add too much sauce or moisture to the filling. A watery filling can lead to a soggy crust. If your filling is too wet, consider cooking it a little longer to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: Don’t skip the egg wash step! It’s essential for achieving that beautiful golden brown color on the crust. The egg wash also adds flavor and helps seal the edges of the crust.
• Overcooking or Undercooking the Crust: Keep an eye on the crust while baking. If it begins to brown too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil. Conversely, if the crust is pale after the recommended baking time, give it a few more minutes in the oven until it reaches the desired color.

Tips and Tricks

• Customize the Filling: Feel free to experiment with different pizza toppings to suit your taste. You can add cooked bacon, ham, or a variety of vegetables. Mixing cheeses, such as ricotta or feta, can also add an interesting twist to the flavor.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the filling for added freshness and flavor. Adding herbs can elevate the taste of the pot pie and give it a more authentic Italian pizza flavor.
• Use Leftover Pizza: This recipe is a great way to use leftover pizza. Simply chop up your leftover slices and mix them into the filling for a quick and easy meal.

FAQ

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and loading up on your favorite vegetables. Adding extra cheese or plant-based alternatives can provide the same satisfaction.

Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can use other types of crust such as puff pastry or biscuit dough. Each will give a different texture and flavor to the pot pie, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the pot pie right before baking. This makes it convenient for gatherings and parties, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without much hassle.

How do I store leftover pot pie?
After cooling, store leftover pot pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

What should I serve with this dish?
Deep Dish Pizza Pot Pie pairs well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or even a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Feel free to get creative with your side dishes based on your preferences!

Conclusion

Deep Dish Pizza Pot Pie is a delightful twist on traditional comfort food, merging the flavors of pizza with the warmth of a pot pie. This recipe allows for creativity and customization, ensuring that it can be tailored to suit your tastes. With its buttery crust, gooey cheese, and flavorful filling, this dish is perfect for any occasion—be it a casual dinner or a festive gathering.

As you gather around the table with family and friends, enjoy the process of making this dish and savor the delightful flavors it offers. Deep Dish Pizza Pot Pie is sure to become a new favorite in your household, providing warmth, comfort, and joy. So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and let the deliciousness unfold!

Print