Stuffed crust pizza is a delicious, indulgent twist on the traditional pizza. Most people are familiar with the popular version made using string cheese, but there are many other ways to create a mouthwatering stuffed crust without relying on pre-packaged string cheese. Whether you want to use alternative types of cheese, add more variety with different fillings, or simply don’t have string cheese on hand, this article will guide you through making your very own stuffed crust pizza using simple ingredients.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from making the perfect dough, choosing different cheese options, adding creative fillings, and mastering the technique to achieve the perfect stuffed crust without string cheese.
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The Basics of Stuffed Crust Pizza
Stuffed crust pizza, a concept that gained massive popularity in the 1990s, involves stuffing cheese or other fillings into the outer edges of the pizza crust, making it a more flavorful, gooey, and enjoyable experience from the first bite to the last.
Why Avoid String Cheese?
Although string cheese is commonly used in stuffed crust recipes, there are several reasons why you might prefer to use alternatives:
Availability: String cheese may not always be available in every kitchen or local grocery store.
Customization: Using different types of cheese or fillings allows for more creative flavor profiles.
Texture: Some people prefer a creamier or sharper cheese that melts more evenly than string cheese.
Health Considerations: Some varieties of cheese may offer a healthier or lower-fat option compared to string cheese.
Ingredients for Homemade Stuffed Crust Pizza Without String Cheese
Here’s a basic list of ingredients to get started on your homemade stuffed crust pizza, followed by suggestions for alternative cheeses and fillings. This recipe assumes you’re making a 12- to 14-inch pizza.
For the Pizza Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for a chewier texture)
- 1 cup warm water (around 110°F)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for greasing the pan)
- 2 teaspoons salt
For the Stuffed Crust
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or an alternative cheese of your choice)
- Olive oil for brushing the crust
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for flavor)
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (optional, for extra flavor; options include oregano, basil, or parsley)
For the Pizza Toppings
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, olives, etc.)
Alternative Cheese Options for Stuffed Crust
While string cheese is a popular choice for stuffing crust, there are many other types of cheese that can be used to achieve a delicious, gooey crust.
1. Shredded Mozzarella
Mozzarella is the go-to cheese for pizza, and shredded mozzarella can easily be used for stuffing the crust. It melts beautifully and provides the creamy, stretchy texture people love in pizza. Simply line the dough with shredded mozzarella before folding the edges over to seal the cheese inside.
2. Cheddar Cheese
For a sharper, more flavorful crust, try using shredded or sliced cheddar cheese. Cheddar melts well and offers a rich, tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with traditional pizza toppings.
3. Provolone
Provolone cheese has a slightly smoky flavor and a smooth texture that works well in a stuffed crust. You can either slice or shred provolone and place it around the edges of the dough to achieve a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
4. Ricotta Cheese
For a softer, creamier filling, ricotta is an excellent choice. It won’t give you the stretchy, stringy melt of mozzarella, but it offers a rich, delicate flavor and smooth texture. You can mix the ricotta with herbs, garlic, and a bit of Parmesan for an added boost of flavor.
5. Parmesan or Romano
Although these cheeses are usually used as toppings or for garnishing, they can be blended with other softer cheeses (such as mozzarella or ricotta) to stuff the crust. The strong, salty flavor of Parmesan or Romano adds depth and complexity to the pizza.
6. Cream Cheese
For a unique twist, you can use cream cheese to stuff your pizza crust. Cream cheese is soft, creamy, and rich, which will result in a more indulgent bite. Combine it with herbs, garlic, or even chives to give it a flavorful boost.
Adding Other Fillings to Your Stuffed Crust
While cheese is the most popular filling for stuffed crust pizza, there’s no reason to stop there. You can get creative by adding different ingredients to your stuffed crust to elevate the flavor profile and create a unique pizza experience.
1. Pepperoni or Sausage
For meat lovers, consider stuffing the crust with small slices of pepperoni or cooked sausage. These ingredients add a savory, meaty bite to the crust, which pairs perfectly with the cheesy center. Be sure to use thinly sliced or crumbled pieces, so the crust still bakes evenly.
2. Vegetables
Add a healthy twist by incorporating vegetables into your stuffed crust. Thinly sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach are great options that complement the cheese. Be sure to use cooked or sautéed vegetables to avoid adding excess moisture to the crust.
3. Garlic and Herbs
Enhance the flavor of your stuffed crust by mixing garlic and herbs with the cheese before stuffing it into the dough. A blend of garlic, oregano, parsley, and basil can create an aromatic and flavorful crust that tastes like garlic bread.
4. Sun-Dried Tomatoes or Olives
For a Mediterranean twist, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or chopped olives to the cheese in your stuffed crust. These ingredients bring a tangy, salty flavor that adds complexity to each bite.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Stuffed Crust Pizza Without String Cheese
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
The dough is the foundation of any great pizza. For stuffed crust pizza, you want to ensure the dough is pliable enough to fold over the cheese while still being sturdy enough to hold the fillings.
Activating the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm water (around 110°F), sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This ensures the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.
Mixing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients, and stir with a wooden spoon or use a stand mixer until the dough comes together.
Kneading the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for about 8-10 minutes, or knead in a stand mixer on medium speed for 5-6 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
First Rise
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
Let the dough rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Preparing the Cheese and Fillings
While the dough is rising, prepare the cheese and fillings for your stuffed crust.
Shredded Cheese
If using shredded cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone, measure out about 1 1/2 cups and set it aside. This will be used to stuff the crust.
Soft Cheese Mixtures
For ricotta, cream cheese, or other soft cheeses, mix them with your desired herbs, garlic, or additional flavorings. For example:
Ricotta mixture: Combine 1 cup of ricotta with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil.
Cream cheese mixture: Mix 1 cup of cream cheese with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Step 3: Shaping and Stuffing the Dough
Once the dough has finished rising, it’s time to shape the pizza and stuff the crust.
Rolling Out the Dough
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles and transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
Roll the dough out into a large circle, about 12-14 inches in diameter, making sure to leave enough extra dough around the edges for stuffing.
Adding the Cheese or Fillings
Around the outer edge of the dough (about 1 inch from the edge), place a line of cheese or your chosen filling. If using shredded cheese, sprinkle it evenly in a circle around the edge. If using a soft cheese mixture, use a spoon or piping bag to spread it evenly.
Gently fold the outer edge of the dough over the cheese and press down to seal it. Make sure the filling is fully enclosed, and the edge of the crust is secure.
Step 4: Adding the Sauce and Toppings
Now that the crust is stuffed, it’s time to add your sauce and favorite pizza toppings.
Spreading the Sauce
Spread an even layer of pizza sauce over the center of the dough, leaving the stuffed edges uncovered.
For a richer flavor, you can brush the stuffed crust with olive oil and sprinkle it with garlic powder or herbs before baking.
Adding Toppings
Add shredded mozzarella cheese (or your preferred cheese) over the sauce.
Top the pizza with your choice of ingredients. For a classic pizza, use pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and onions. For a vegetarian option, try bell peppers, olives, spinach, and artichokes.
Step 5: Baking the Pizza
Transfer the pizza to a preheated oven (475°F) and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
Keep an eye on the stuffed crust to ensure it bakes through completely. If the outer edges are browning too quickly, you can cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serving and Enjoying
Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Enjoy the gooey, cheesy stuffed crust with each slice, and serve with your favorite dipping sauces, like marinara or ranch.
Tips for Perfecting Your Stuffed Crust Pizza
Seal the Crust Well: Make sure the dough is properly sealed around the cheese or fillings, or else they may leak out during baking.
Pre-Cook Meats: If adding meats like sausage or bacon to the crust, cook them beforehand to ensure they’re fully cooked when the pizza is done.
Don’t Overstuff: Adding too much cheese or filling can make the crust difficult to seal and may cause uneven baking.
Conclusion
Making stuffed crust pizza without string cheese opens up a world of creativity and flavor. By using alternative cheeses and experimenting with different fillings, you can customize your stuffed crust pizza to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you choose mozzarella, ricotta, or even cream cheese, the process of creating a delicious stuffed crust pizza at home is simple and rewarding. With the right techniques and ingredients, you can enjoy a gooey, cheesy crust in every bite—no string cheese required.
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