Deep Dish Pizza with Cheese and Meatballs

Deep Dish Pizza with Cheese and Meatballs 🍕🧀🍖

This Deep Dish Pizza with Cheese and Meatballs is a hearty, indulgent twist on the classic Chicago-style pizza. With its thick, buttery crust, layers of gooey cheese, savory marinara sauce, and tender meatballs, this pizza is perfect for satisfying your cravings. Whether you’re making it for a weekend dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers big on flavor and comfort.

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious deep dish pizza step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Thick & Cheesy : The deep dish crust holds layers of melty mozzarella, creamy ricotta, and savory toppings.
2. Meatball Magic : Juicy meatballs add extra flavor and texture to every bite.
3. Customizable : Swap ingredients like sausage, pepperoni, or veggies to suit your taste.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly : Prepare the dough or assemble the pizza ahead of time for convenience.
5. Perfect for Sharing : A crowd-pleasing dish ideal for family dinners, game nights, or potlucks.

Ingredients

(Serves 6–8)

For the Pizza Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C )
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Toppings:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix )
• 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for drizzling )
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper , to taste
• 1 cup cooked meatballs, halved (store-bought or homemade )
• Fresh basil , for garnish (optional )

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water , sugar , and yeast . Let it sit for 5–10 minutes , or until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt . Add the yeast mixture and olive oil , and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes , or until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour , or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatballs

1. If using raw meatballs, cook them according to your preferred method (baked, pan-fried, or simmered in marinara sauce). Let them cool slightly, then halve them.
   • Tip : Use store-bought meatballs if you’re short on time.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) . Grease a deep dish pizza pan or a 9-inch cast iron skillet generously with olive oil or butter.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

1. Punch down the risen dough and press it into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pan, creating an even layer.
2. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the dough.
3. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
4. Dollop ricotta cheese over the mozzarella, spreading it gently with a spoon.
5. Arrange the halved meatballs evenly over the ricotta layer.
6. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Drizzle additional marinara sauce over the cheese layer and sprinkle with Italian seasoning , garlic powder , salt , and pepper .

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes , or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
   • Tip : If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
3. Slice into wedges and serve hot with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients : Fresh mozzarella and homemade marinara sauce elevate the flavor of the pizza.
2. Pre-Cook the Meatballs : Ensure the meatballs are fully cooked before adding them to the pizza to prevent sogginess.
3. Add Veggies : Layer sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach under the cheese for added nutrition.
4. Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . Reheat in the oven or microwave.
5. Freeze for Later : Freeze unbaked pizza (without toppings) for up to 1 month . Thaw overnight in the fridge, add toppings, and bake as directed.

Perfect Pairings

This Deep Dish Pizza with Cheese and Meatballs pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic Bread : Perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce.
• Green Salad : Serve with a crisp arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water or lemonade for a refreshing contrast.
• Beer or Wine : Enjoy with a cold beer or a glass of red wine for a cozy meal experience.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 8 servings)

• Calories : ~450 kcal
• Protein : ~25g
• Carbohydrates : ~35g
• Fat : ~25g
• Fiber : ~3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Deep Dish Pizza with Cheese and Meatballs is a show-stopping dish that combines rich, cheesy layers with savory meatballs and a thick, buttery crust. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion, feeding a crowd, or simply craving a comforting meal, this pizza delivers big on taste and satisfaction. The combination of gooey cheese, flavorful marinara, and tender meatballs creates a dish that’s both indulgent and unforgettable.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the toppings, adjust the seasonings, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your pizza pan, roll out that dough, and get ready to enjoy a pizza that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.