Stuffed cheese pizza

Stuffed Cheese Pizza Recipe from Italy with Broccoli

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 8

Introduction

Stuffed cheese pizza is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of a traditional pizza with the added bonus of a cheesy, broccoli-filled center. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.

History

The origins of stuffed cheese pizza are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been inspired by the classic calzone, a folded pizza filled with cheese and other ingredients. This recipe puts a unique twist on the traditional pizza by incorporating broccoli and a double crust.

Ingredients

1 pack (or 1 tbsp) active dry yeast
0.25 cup warm water (110 to 115°F)
3 cup whole wheat flour
0.5 tsp salt
1 tbsp dried oregano
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 cup water
3 cup part skim mozzarella cheese, grated
10 oz (283 g) package frozen broccoli spears, defrosted and chopped -or- 2 cup cooked fresh broccoli, chopped
1 cup pizza sauce

How to prepare

To make the crust, dissolve the yeast in warm water in a large bowl.
Add the flour, salt, oregano, oil, and 1 cup of water. Mix well.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 2 minutes, or until the dough is smooth.
Place the dough in an oiled bowl. Cover with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it into two parts.
Press half of the dough onto the bottom of a 10-inch oiled pie pan.
Sprinkle cheese and broccoli over the dough.
Press the other half of the dough into a 10-inch round and set it on top of the cheese and broccoli.
Crimp the edges together and make several slashes in the top crust.
Bake in a 400°F (204°C) oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and spread pizza sauce on top.
Bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Serves 8. One serving contains: calories: 282, carbohydrates: 37 g, protein: 16 g, fat: 10 g, sodium: 424 mg, potassium: 425 mg, cholesterol: 16 mg, exchange value: 2 medium-fat meat exchanges + 2 bread exchanges + 2 vegetable exchanges.

Variations

Add cooked sausage or pepperoni to the filling for a meatier version.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for a different flavor profile.
Experiment with different vegetables, such as mushrooms, peppers, or spinach, in the filling.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to let the dough rise properly to ensure a light and fluffy crust.

- Be sure to crimp the edges of the pizza together tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, such as mushrooms, peppers, or sausage.

Serving Suggestions

Serve stuffed cheese pizza with a side salad or some fresh fruit for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Knead the dough until smooth to ensure a light and fluffy crust.

- Bake the pizza in a hot oven to ensure a crispy crust and melted cheese.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour if desired.

- Substitute your favorite vegetables for the broccoli in the filling.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time and assemble the pizza just before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve stuffed cheese pizza on a large platter and garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Stuffed cheese pizza pairs well with a light and refreshing white wine or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of stuffed cheese pizza contains 282 calories.

Carbohydrates

One serving of stuffed cheese pizza contains 37 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

One serving of stuffed cheese pizza contains 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

One serving of stuffed cheese pizza contains 16 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Stuffed cheese pizza is a good source of potassium, with one serving containing 425 mg.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Stuffed cheese pizza is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of potassium and other essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Stuffed cheese pizza is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together. With a crispy crust, gooey cheese, and flavorful broccoli filling, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for stuffed cheese pizza. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was known for her delicious Italian dishes and I always looked forward to tasting her latest creations.

As I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked bread and melted cheese. Maria was busy at the stove, carefully stuffing the pizza dough with a generous amount of gooey mozzarella cheese. I watched in awe as she skillfully folded the dough over the cheese, sealing it in with a perfect crimp.

"Come, sit down and watch closely," Maria said with a smile. "I'm going to show you how to make my famous stuffed cheese pizza."

I eagerly pulled up a chair and took in every step of the process. Maria explained that the key to a perfect stuffed cheese pizza was to use a high-quality dough that was soft and stretchy. She also stressed the importance of using fresh, high-quality cheese for the filling.

As Maria worked her magic in the kitchen, she shared with me the story of how she learned to make this recipe. She told me that it was passed down to her from her own grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago.

"My grandmother used to make this stuffed cheese pizza for special occasions, like birthdays and holidays," Maria reminisced. "It was always a hit with our family and friends."

I listened intently as Maria shared the family secrets and tips that had been handed down through generations. She explained that the key to a perfectly stuffed cheese pizza was to let the dough rise slowly and to bake it at just the right temperature until the cheese was melted and bubbly.

After what seemed like hours of kneading, stuffing, and baking, Maria finally pulled the stuffed cheese pizza out of the oven. The golden crust was perfectly crisp and the cheese was oozing out of every delicious bite.

"Here, try a slice," Maria said, handing me a piping hot piece of pizza on a plate. I eagerly took a bite and was instantly transported to pizza heaven. The combination of the soft, chewy dough and the gooey melted cheese was pure perfection.

As I savored the flavors of Maria's stuffed cheese pizza, I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. I asked Maria if she would be willing to teach me her family recipe and she happily agreed.

Over the next few weeks, I spent countless hours in Maria's kitchen, learning the art of making stuffed cheese pizza. She patiently guided me through each step, from mixing the dough to shaping the crust to stuffing the cheese. I practiced diligently, determined to master the recipe that had been passed down through generations.

Finally, the day came when I felt ready to make my own stuffed cheese pizza. I gathered all the ingredients, rolled out the dough, and carefully stuffed it with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese. As I slid the pizza into the oven, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment.

When the pizza emerged from the oven, golden and bubbling with melted cheese, I knew that I had succeeded. I cut into the pizza and savored the familiar flavors that had brought me so much joy over the years.

As I sat down to enjoy my homemade stuffed cheese pizza, I couldn't help but think of Maria and her grandmother, who had passed down this treasured recipe to me. I felt grateful for the memories and traditions that had shaped me into the cook I had become.

And as I took another bite of the delicious pizza, I knew that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the love and friendship that had inspired me to create something truly magical in the kitchen.