Mozzarella-Stuffed Crust Pizza

This Mozzarella-Stuffed Crust Pizza is a delightful take on a classic favorite, combining the flavors of a traditional pizza with the added indulgence of mozzarella cheese baked into the crust. The dough is easy to prepare and requires minimal kneading, while the stuffed crust elevates the texture and flavor of the pizza. With a golden, crispy base, gooey mozzarella inside the crust, and melted cheese on top, this pizza is bound to impress everyone at the table. It’s perfect for family gatherings, game nights, or a cozy dinner at home.

Whether you’re a pizza enthusiast or a beginner, this step-by-step guide will help you create a pizzeria-quality meal right in your own kitchen. The best part? You can customize the toppings to your preference, making this pizza both versatile and delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Dough:
  • Water: 0.9 cups (210 ml)
  • Yeast: 1 teaspoon (3 grams)
  • Bread flour or wheat flour: 2 cups (300 grams)
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon (3 grams)
For the Stuffed Crust and Toppings:
  • Mozzarella sticks: Cut into 1cm strips
  • Tomato sauce: 3 tablespoons (preferably thick pizza tomato sauce)
  • Grated mozzarella cheese: To taste (for topping)
Equipment:
  • Baking tray lined with parchment paper
  • Rolling pin
  • Fork

Instructions (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
  1. Mix the yeast and water: In a large bowl, combine 0.9 cups (210 ml) of warm water and 1 teaspoon (3 grams) of yeast. Stir until the yeast is dissolved and well combined with the water.
  2. Add the flour and salt: Gradually add 2 cups (300 grams) of bread or wheat flour and ½ teaspoon (3 grams) of salt to the yeast mixture. Stir the ingredients together until a dough forms. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky due to the high water content, but it will firm up as it rises.
  3. Let the dough rise: Cover the dough with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled or tripled in size. If your kitchen is cooler, you may need to let it rise longer, or place the bowl near a warm spot like a stove or oven.
Step 2: Shape the Dough
  1. Transfer the dough to a floured surface: After the dough has risen, sprinkle some flour onto a clean work surface and transfer the dough onto it to prevent sticking.
  2. Deflate the dough: Lightly press the dough to deflate it and release any air bubbles. Then, shape the dough into a round ball.
  3. Divide the dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts, as this recipe makes two pizzas. Shape each portion into a ball and let them rest for about 15 minutes, covered with a cloth or plastic wrap. This resting period will make the dough easier to roll out.
Step 3: Prepare the Pizza Crust
  1. Roll out the dough: Take one dough ball and use a rolling pin to roll it out into a large sheet, roughly 30 cm in diameter. The dough should be thin but sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
  2. Stuff the crust with mozzarella: Lay the rolled-out dough onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Place mozzarella stick strips about 2 cm from the edge of the dough, forming a circle. Carefully fold the edge of the dough over the mozzarella sticks, pressing tightly to seal the edges and prevent cheese from leaking out during baking.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
  1. Poke holes in the dough: Using a fork, poke small holes in the center of the dough. This step allows steam to escape and prevents the dough from puffing up too much in the oven.
  2. Spread the tomato sauce: Evenly spread 3 tablespoons of tomato sauce over the center of the dough, using the back of a spoon to create an even layer. Leave the edges (the stuffed crust) free of sauce.
  3. Add the cheese topping: Generously sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese over the tomato sauce. You can also add any other toppings you prefer, such as pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, or peppers, depending on your taste.
Step 5: Bake the Pizza
  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 430°F (220°C) and make sure it reaches the desired temperature before placing the pizza inside.
  2. Bake the pizza: Place the pizza in the center of the oven and bake for 12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent overcooking.
  3. Let it cool slightly: Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set and prevents the toppings from sliding off.
Step 6: Serve
  1. Slice and serve: Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, slice the pizza into wedges and serve hot. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy crust with gooey mozzarella inside!
  2. Repeat for the second pizza: If you are making both pizzas, repeat the same process for the second dough ball.

Cooking Tips

  • Rising time: The dough will rise faster in warmer conditions. If you are in a hurry, you can use a slightly warm oven (around 100°F or 40°C) to speed up the rising process.
  • Crust sealing: When folding the dough over the mozzarella sticks, press the edges down firmly to ensure the cheese doesn’t leak out during baking. If you want extra security, you can brush a little water on the edges before folding.
  • Customize toppings: Feel free to get creative with the toppings! Add vegetables, meats, or herbs to make the pizza your own. Just make sure not to overload the pizza with toppings, as too many can make the dough soggy.
  • Use a pizza stone: For an extra crispy crust, you can bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone instead of a baking tray. Just make sure to dust the stone with flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)

  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Calcium: 200 mg
  • Iron: 2 mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?
    • Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pizza dough. Just make sure to follow the instructions for rolling and stuffing the crust.
  2. What other cheeses can I use for the stuffed crust?
    • While mozzarella is the classic choice, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
  3. Can I freeze the dough?
    • Yes, you can freeze the dough after it has risen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. When ready to use, let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before rolling it out.
  4. How do I prevent the pizza from becoming soggy?
    • Make sure to poke holes in the dough to release steam and avoid using too much sauce or watery toppings. Baking the pizza on a preheated stone or in a hot oven also helps to create a crispier crust.
  5. Can I make the dough gluten-free?
    • You can substitute the bread flour with gluten-free flour, but the texture and rise may differ slightly. Be sure to follow gluten-free dough recipes for best results.

Conclusion

This Mozzarella-Stuffed Crust Pizza brings a new level of indulgence to traditional homemade pizza with its cheesy, gooey crust. Easy to make, with minimal kneading and a quick rise, this pizza is a fun and delicious meal for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special gathering, the stuffed crust adds a surprise that everyone will love. With customizable toppings and a simple process, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it hot, straight from the oven, for maximum flavor and enjoyment!