Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza

Introduction

The only thing better than pizza is pizza with a cheese-stuffed crust—and this Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza delivers exactly that. Golden crust hiding molten mozzarella, tangy pizza sauce, melty cheese on top, and plenty of crispy-edged pepperoni. It’s indulgent, fun to make, and guaranteed to disappear fast at the dinner table. The best part? You don’t need a pizzeria—you can make this right at home, with all your favorite toppings.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Resting Time: 30 minutes (for dough, if using fresh)

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients

For the Dough 

2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) instant yeast

1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)

1 tbsp sugar

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp salt

For the Pizza

8 string cheese sticks (or thick mozzarella strips)

1 cup pizza sauce

2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

20–25 pepperoni slices

1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing crust)

1 tsp garlic powder (optional, for crust seasoning)

1 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)

Instructions

Make the Dough (15 minutes + 30 minutes rest)

In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

Add flour, olive oil, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.

Knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes or until doubled in size.

Shape and Stuff the Crust (10 minutes)

Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.

Roll dough into a 14-inch circle.

Arrange string cheese sticks around the outer edge, about 1 inch from the rim.

Fold the dough edge over the cheese and press firmly to seal.

Add the Toppings (5 minutes)

Spread pizza sauce evenly over the center of the dough.

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.

Arrange pepperoni slices evenly on top.

Bake the Pizza (12–15 minutes)

Transfer pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.

Bake for 12–15 minutes, until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.

Brush crust with olive oil mixed with garlic powder and Italian herbs right after baking for extra flavor.

Tips for Best Results

Make sure to seal the cheese inside the crust well, so it doesn’t leak during baking.

For extra crispiness, bake directly on a pizza stone or upside-down baking sheet.

Use turkey pepperoni for a lighter option or mix in other toppings like mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers.

If you like a smoky kick, sprinkle the pepperoni with a pinch of smoked paprika before baking.

Serving Suggestion

Serve hot with extra marinara sauce for dipping the stuffed crust—it turns the edges into cheesy breadsticks.