If you’re craving a delightful twist on classic comfort food, this Pizza Pie Recipe is the perfect answer. Combining the satisfying chew of pizza dough with a rich vodka sauce and bubbling Italian cheese topped with pepperoni, every bite feels like a warm hug from your oven. With simple ingredients coming together to create a golden, savory pie, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each element in this Pizza Pie Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color, making it a straightforward yet incredibly tasty dish. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:
- 1 lb pizza dough: The foundation that gives the pie structure and a chewy, satisfying bite.
- 2 cups shredded Italian cheese blend: A melty combination of cheeses that create the perfect gooey texture and rich flavor.
- 1 cup vodka sauce: This vibrant tomato sauce adds a creamy, tangy punch without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- 2 oz pepperoni (sliced): A classic topping that brings a little spice and a lot of savory goodness.
- 1 egg beaten: Used to brush the top crust, it creates a beautiful golden finish that’s every bit as appealing as the taste.
How to Make Pizza Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Pan and Dough
Start by greasing a 10-inch pie pan to keep that pizza pie from sticking and facilitate easy serving. Then, take half of your pizza dough and press it evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. This dough base will hold all those tasty fillings and give your pie that classic structure.
Step 2: Layer the Cheese, Sauce, and Pepperoni
Now for the fun part: building flavor layers. Sprinkle half of your shredded Italian cheese blend over the dough, then spread the vodka sauce evenly on top. The sauce adds a creamy tang that perfectly complements the cheese. Next, arrange the pepperoni slices evenly across the sauce, so every slice of pie gets a good amount of spicy, savory kick.
Step 3: Add the Top Crust
Cover your pie with the remaining dough, carefully folding the edges under to seal it snugly. This top layer traps all the wonderful flavors inside and bakes up into a golden crust that’s not just beautiful but also deliciously flaky and tender.
Step 4: Brush with Egg and Bake
Brush the top crust with the beaten egg; this little step gives your pizza pie a shiny, enticing golden-brown finish once baked. Cut three slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking. Pop your pie in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for about 35 minutes or until the crust is perfectly golden and irresistible.
How to Serve Pizza Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or oregano sprinkled on top after baking add a fresh, aromatic touch that brightens the rich flavors. A dash of crushed red pepper or a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil can elevate the taste to new heights and make your pizza pie feel restaurant-quality at home.
Side Dishes
Serve with a crisp Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pie. Garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks make excellent companions, turning your meal into a full-on pizza night feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your pizza pie into rustic wedges for a casual family dinner, or slice into smaller squares for party appetizers. For a fun twist, serve it alongside dipping sauces like ranch or spicy marinara, letting everyone customize each bite just the way they like it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, slice any leftover pizza pie and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This keeps the crust from getting soggy and preserves the fresh flavors of the cheese and sauce.
Freezing
You can freeze the whole unbaked assembled pizza pie wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and foil for up to two months. When ready, bake it straight from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for a fresh-baked taste anytime you want it.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes to maintain that crispy crust and melty cheese texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the dough rubbery and the cheese clump.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this Pizza Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a convenient option that works wonderfully for this recipe, saving you time without sacrificing flavor or texture.
What’s the best cheese blend to use?
An Italian cheese blend typically includes mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan, which melt beautifully and provide the perfect balance of gooeyness and flavor for your pizza pie.
Is vodka sauce important, or can I substitute another sauce?
Vodka sauce gives a creamy, slightly tangy flavor that sets this pizza pie apart, but you can substitute marinara or your favorite tomato sauce if needed.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit the pepperoni and load up on vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives to keep it delicious and meat-free.
Can I double this recipe for a larger gathering?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients to make more pizza pies. Just adjust baking time slightly if you’re using larger pans or multiple pies.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply comforting about slicing into a warm, golden pizza pie fresh from the oven. This Pizza Pie Recipe combines ease, flavor, and that irresistible homemade vibe, making it a fantastic choice for any meal. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy pizza!
