Deep Dish Pizza

Ingredients

All-purpose flour

3 cups

Active dry yeast

1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons)

Warm water

1 1/4 cups (about 110°f)

Sugar

1 tablespoon

Salt

1 teaspoon

Butter

4 tablespoons, melted (for dough) + extra for brushing

Olive oil

2 tablespoons (for greasing)

Tomato sauce

1 1/2 cups

Mozzarella cheese

2 cups, shredded

Pepperoni

1 cup, sliced

Garlic powder

1 teaspoon

Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon

Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup, grated

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, warm water, sugar, and salt. Stir until well combined.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl with olive oil, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. Punch down the risen dough and press it into a greased deep dish pizza pan, covering the bottom and sides.
6. Brush the melted butter over the dough to create a rich flavor.
7. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, making sure to cover all edges.
8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce.
9. Top with sliced pepperoni, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning and garlic powder for added flavor.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on top.