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Crispy Cast Iron Deep Dish Pizza Recipe with Sausage and Peppers

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A hearty and hassle-free deep dish pizza made in a cast iron skillet, loaded with spicy sausage, caramelized peppers, and a crispy buttery crust. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (about 320g)
  • 1 cup warm water (240ml, around 105°F/40°C)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 8 ounces Italian sausage, casings removed (spicy or mild)
  • 1 large red bell pepper, sliced thin
  • 1 large green bell pepper, sliced thin
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (about 200g, whole milk preferred)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes (240ml), seasoned with basil and oregano
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes, a pinch (optional)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, stir warm water and sugar until dissolved. Sprinkle active dry yeast on top and let sit until foamy and bubbly, about 5-10 minutes.
  2. Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Let the dough rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 45 minutes.
  5. Prepare sausage and peppers: Heat oil in cast iron skillet over medium heat. Crumble sausage and cook until browned, 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  6. Sauté peppers and onions: In the same skillet, add sliced peppers, onions, and garlic. Cook until softened and caramelized, about 7 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
  8. Assemble pizza: Punch down dough and stretch to fit inside skillet, pushing up sides. Spread thin layer of crushed tomatoes on dough. Top with mozzarella, cooked sausage, peppers, onions, and Parmesan. Tear basil leaves over top if using.
  9. Bake pizza: Place skillet in oven and bake 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and crust edges are crisp and browned.
  10. Cool and serve: Let pizza rest 5 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Pre-cook sausage and peppers separately to avoid soggy crust. Use a thin layer of sauce to prevent sogginess. Tent with foil if crust browns too fast. For reheating, use a hot skillet or oven to maintain crispiness. Well-seasoned cast iron skillet enhances flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: deep dish pizza, cast iron skillet pizza, sausage and peppers pizza, crispy pizza, homemade pizza, easy pizza recipe, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://avabake.com/crispy-cast-iron-deep-dish-pizza-recipe-with-sausage-and-peppers-easy-step-by-step/