Ultimate Deep Dish Meatball Pizza Recipe

If you’re tired of the same old pizza toppings and meatball dinners, why not combine the best of both worlds with this mouthwatering Deep Dish Meatball Pizza recipe? This delicious creation was born out of a family dinner dilemma, where pizza and meatballs were both on the menu but nobody could agree. Fast forward through a few kitchen experiments, and the result is a cheesy, saucy, and meaty masterpiece that’s sure to become a favorite in your home too.

Picture this: a thick, golden crust, topped with savory meatballs, gooey cheeses, and a flavorful marinara sauce. Each bite is a perfect harmony of pizza and meatball flavors, creating a unique and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply treating yourself to a comforting dinner, this Deep Dish Meatball Pizza is guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a slice of pure comfort. With a little patience and a lot of love, you’ll have a Deep Dish Meatball Pizza that’s bound to become a regular on your weekly menu rotation. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s the talk of poker nights and family dinners alike.

Quick Benefits

• Versatile: You can customize this deep dish meatball pizza with different meats, vegetables, and cheeses, making it adaptable to suit your preferences and what you have on hand.
• Convenient: This pizza is a one-dish meal that combines the flavors of meatballs and pizza into a satisfying and hearty dinner, perfect for when you want something special without a lot of effort.
• Make-Ahead: The pizza keeps well in the fridge for several days and can be reheated in the oven, making it a great option for meal prep or for enjoying leftovers.

Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Deep Dish Meatball Pizza Recipe Recipe

• Innovative Fusion: This recipe creatively combines two classic favorites – meatballs and pizza – into one delicious dish, offering a unique twist on traditional pizza night.
• Family Favorite: Perfect for those nights when everyone craves something different, this recipe unites diverse tastes into a single satisfying meal that will please even the pickiest eaters.
• Impressive Flavor: The blend of seasoned meatballs, savory onion mixture, and gooey cheeses on a crispy crust creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that will leave your taste buds singing.
• Versatile Customization: You can easily customize this dish by varying the meat choices, adding different vegetables, or experimenting with cheese options, making it adaptable to your preferences and pantry staples.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: With the option to prepare ahead of time, store leftovers in the fridge, or freeze slices for later enjoyment, this recipe offers flexibility for busy schedules and meal planning.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether for a casual family dinner, game night with friends, or a cozy evening in, this deep dish meatball pizza is sure to be a hit and leave a lasting impression on all who try it.
• Easy Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven to maintain the crispy crust, ensuring that every bite tastes as fresh and delicious as when it was first baked.

Ingredients for Ultimate Deep Dish Meatball Pizza Recipe

For the Meatballs

• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ pound ground pork
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 2 tablespoons whole milk
• 1 teaspoon fresh garlic, minced
• ⅓ cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ medium yellow onion, finely diced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Pizza

• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced (optional)
• 1 pound pizza dough, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh garlic, minced
• ½ large yellow onion, sliced thin
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1½ teaspoons Italian herb seasoning
• 1 tablespoon butter

How to Make Ultimate Deep Dish Meatball Pizza Recipe

Step 1: Start the meatballs

Preheat oven to 400°F. Combine breadcrumbs and milk in a small bowl, allowing them to soak for 5 minutes until the breadcrumbs absorb the liquid and soften.

Step 2: Prepare meatball base

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onion in olive oil until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat, let cool slightly, and add to the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 3: Form the meatballs

Combine ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes with the breadcrumb mixture. Gently mix with hands until combined. Form into 24 small meatballs, approximately 1 inch in size.

Step 4: Bake the meatballs

Arrange meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-17 minutes until fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove from oven and let cool.

Step 5: Prep for pizza

Preheat oven to 450°F and generously grease a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray or butter.

Step 6: Cook the pizza vegetables

In the skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion and diced jalapeño; cook for 5-6 minutes until onions are golden and soft. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 7: Shape the crust

Roll out pizza dough on a floured surface into an 11-inch circle. Transfer to a greased springform pan, pressing dough up the sides about 1-2 inches to form a deep dish crust.

Step 8: Assemble the pizza

Evenly spread pizza sauce on the dough, then combine cooked meatballs, sautéed onions, and shredded cheeses in a bowl. Spread this mixture evenly over the sauce.

Step 9: Bake the pizza

Bake for 20 minutes until crust is golden and cheese starts to brown. Cover with foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes to prevent over-browning and ensure crust is cooked through.

Step 10: Cool and serve

Take out of the oven and allow to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Carefully remove the springform sides, cut into wedges, and serve hot.

Storage Tips

To store the finished deep dish meatball pizza, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. The pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. When reheating, it is best to use the oven to maintain the crispy crust. Simply place the pizza in a preheated oven until heated through for a delicious and satisfying meal.

If you have made a large batch of the deep dish meatball pizza and want to save some for later, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for a tasty and convenient meal. By properly storing and reheating the deep dish meatball pizza, you can continue to enjoy this flavorful and unique dish at your convenience.

Ingredient Substitutions

For potential ingredient substitutions in this deep dish meatball pizza recipe, you can customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Instead of ground pork, you can use Italian sausage to add a different flavor profile. If you’re looking to make the dish spicier, you can include hot Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses based on your taste preferences. For example, you can swap out the Monterey Jack cheese for mozzarella or provolone for a more traditional pizza flavor.

To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, you can substitute the ground beef and pork with plant-based meat alternatives or a mixture of lentils and mushrooms for a hearty texture. For a healthier version, consider using turkey or chicken instead of the ground beef and pork. You can also add more vegetables to the pizza by including bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach in the topping mixture. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients and make this deep dish meatball pizza your own by incorporating your favorite flavors and ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive serving suggestion, consider hosting a DIY pizza night with this deep dish meatball pizza as the star. Set up a variety of toppings like extra cheese, pepperoni, sliced bell peppers, and olives that guests can customize their slices with before baking. This not only adds a personalized touch to the meal but also makes for a lively and engaging dining experience for everyone involved.

To elevate the presentation, serve the deep dish meatball pizza in individual cast-iron skillets. The individual servings add a charming and rustic flair to the dish, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. Drizzle some olive oil and sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or oregano on top before serving to enhance the flavors and make each skillet feel extra special.

FAQs for Ultimate Deep Dish Meatball Pizza Recipe

Can I make this deep dish meatball pizza ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pizza keeps well in the fridge for several days and reheats beautifully in the oven. You can also freeze slices for future meals.

Can I customize the ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. You can use different meats like Italian sausage instead of pork, or add vegetables like peppers and mushrooms to the onion mixture. Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor variations.

How can I prevent the meatballs from becoming tough and rubbery?

To ensure tender and juicy meatballs, avoid overmixing the meatball ingredients. Be gentle when combining the ingredients and mix them only until they are evenly distributed.

What is the best way to reheat the deep dish meatball pizza to maintain its crispy crust?

The best way to reheat the pizza and maintain its crispy crust is to use the oven instead of the microwave. Heat the pizza in a preheated oven until warmed through. This will help retain the crispiness of the crust.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Deep Dish Meatball Pizza is not just a meal but a memorable experience that brings together the best of two comfort food classics. Embrace the creativity and versatility of this dish by customizing it with your favorite ingredients and making it your own. Remember to handle the delicate meatball mixture with care and allow the flavors to meld together for a truly delicious outcome.

Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dinner for family gatherings or a unique dish to impress your friends, Deep Dish Meatball Pizza is sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe repertoire. Gather your loved ones around the table and savor every cheesy, meatball-filled bite of this delightful creation. Enjoy the process of making it as much as the delightful taste it brings to your palate. Happy cooking and indulging in the deliciousness of Deep Dish Meatball Pizza!