If you are craving a hearty, comforting meal with layers of bold flavors and a satisfyingly thick crust, look no further than this Deep-Dish Sausage and Vegetables Pizza Pie Recipe. It’s a vibrant, rustic dish that brings together savory Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce all baked beneath a golden crust and bubbly mozzarella topping. Every bite is a delicious celebration of textures and tastes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in a cozy night in, this recipe promises to become a favorite go-to for pizza lovers who adore a homemade, filling pie.

Deep-Dish Sausage and Vegetables Pizza Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Deep-Dish Sausage and Vegetables Pizza Pie Recipe calls for simple, staple ingredients that come together to create big, bold flavors. Each item plays a crucial role, from the fresh veggies adding crunch and color to the rich Italian sausage providing savory depth and the mozzarella sending everything into a melty, cheesy bliss.

Italian sausage (1 pound): Use flavorful, seasoned sausage for a meaty and juicy base that carries the dish.
Chopped onion (1 cup): Adds sweetness and a tender bite that complements the savory elements.
Chopped green bell pepper (1/2 cup): Offers a fresh, slightly bitter crunch that contrasts the richness.
Chopped red bell pepper (1/2 cup): Provides vibrant color and a subtle sweetness to brighten the pie.
Garlic cloves, minced (2): Infuses a fragrant aroma and classic Italian flavor in every mouthful.
Diced tomatoes, drained (1 can, 14.5 oz): Brings juicy, tangy bursts that keep the sauce vibrant and fresh.
Tomato sauce (1 can, 8 oz): Makes a rich, cohesive sauce layer that ties the toppings together.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Classic herb that adds a warm, earthy tone to the sauce.
Dried basil (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a sweet, peppery hint that lifts the overall flavor.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a gentle kick to balance the richness.
Refrigerated pizza dough (1 package, 10 oz): Guarantees a tender, buttery crust that holds all the toppings perfectly.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts into a gooey, golden blanket, offering the pizza its classic finish.

How to Make Deep-Dish Sausage and Vegetables Pizza Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the pie bakes evenly to that beautiful golden crust and bubbling cheese. While the oven heats up, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready — chopping the veggies and draining the tomatoes will keep everything moving smoothly once you start cooking.

Step 2: Cook Sausage and Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage along with the chopped onions and both green and red bell peppers. You’ll want to brown the sausage until it’s fully cooked and the vegetables soften just enough to release their natural sweetness but still hold a little bite. Once done, carefully drain any excess grease to keep the filling rich but not greasy.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Stir in the minced garlic, drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and your dried oregano and basil, plus salt and pepper. Let this simmer gently for about 10 minutes — this step is the magic where all those bold flavors meld into a luscious, savory pizza sauce that perfectly complements the sausage and veggies.

Step 4: Prepare the Dough

Take your refrigerated pizza dough and press it firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. This thick, pliable dough will form a sturdy and buttery crust that holds the filling like a dream, giving you that signature deep-dish pizza feel.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Ladle the hot sausage and vegetable mixture evenly over the dough-lined dish. Spread it out so every slice gets a generous portion of the savory filling — this is the heart of your Deep-Dish Sausage and Vegetables Pizza Pie Recipe.

Step 6: First Bake

Bake the pie for 20 minutes. This initial baking time lets the crust firm up and begin to turn golden while allowing the flavors to meld even more deeply.

Step 7: Add the Cheese and Finish Baking

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, then pop the pie back in the oven for another 10 minutes. You want the cheese to melt fully, become bubbly, and develop those perfectly golden patches that make pizza irresistible.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Once out of the oven, let your pizza pie rest for about 5 minutes. This short wait is essential for the filling to set slightly, making slicing easier and the eating experience more satisfying without any runaway sauce.

How to Serve Deep-Dish Sausage and Vegetables Pizza Pie Recipe

Garnishes

To add an extra layer of freshness and visual appeal, consider garnishing your pizza pie with freshly chopped basil leaves or a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also provide a lovely kick for spice lovers, elevating the already rich filling.

Side Dishes

Keep your sides simple to let the pizza shine. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great way to balance the heaviness of the dish. Garlic bread or a crunchy Caesar salad also pair beautifully, offering a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual slices on rustic wooden boards or colorful plates with small bowls of extra sauce or chili oil on the side. You can also turn this into a buffet-style dinner by slicing it into bite-sized squares, perfect for sharing at casual gatherings or game day celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover deep-dish pizza stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to let the pie cool completely before storing to preserve texture and flavor without sogginess.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

Reheating

To reheat, place your slice or whole pie on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese regains its lovely melty texture. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crisp and the toppings fresh.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional and full of flavor, you can substitute with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a spicy chorizo for a different twist. Just adjust seasoning accordingly to balance the flavors.

Is it necessary to drain the diced tomatoes?

Yes, draining the diced tomatoes prevents the pizza from becoming too watery, which helps maintain the pie’s thick and hearty texture that is so essential for this recipe.

Can I make the dough from scratch instead of using refrigerated dough?

Certainly! A homemade pizza dough adds a personal touch and you can tailor it to your preferred texture. Just make sure it’s enough to line your pie dish well, about 10 ounces or so, as in the recipe.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover deep-dish pizza?

The oven method is best for reheating. It revives the crisp crust and the melted cheese more evenly than the microwave. Heating at 375°F for 10-15 minutes usually does the trick perfectly.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! This Deep-Dish Sausage and Vegetables Pizza Pie Recipe is versatile. Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach would all be wonderful additions or substitutions that complement the sausage and add extra nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Deep-Dish Sausage and Vegetables Pizza Pie Recipe is truly a celebration of comforting, wholesome flavors packed into one delicious dish. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to impress family or friends with something homemade yet effortless to prepare. Trust me, once you try it, this pie will be a favorite you return to again and again, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with satisfaction. So go ahead, get cooking and enjoy every cheesy, saucy slice!