Stretchy mozzarella, crisp crust, zesty sauce, and pepperoni unite for crowd-pleasing flavor.
# Components:
→ Dough and Crust
01 - 1 lb pizza dough, store-bought or homemade
02 - 6 to 8 mozzarella string cheese sticks
→ Toppings
03 - 1/2 cup pizza sauce
04 - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
05 - 20 to 25 slices pepperoni, beef or turkey
→ Finishing Touches
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
07 - Optional: garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or grated Parmesan for seasoning
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat. Lightly grease a pizza pan or baking sheet if not using a stone.
02 - Roll pizza dough into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Carefully transfer the dough to the prepared pan or hot stone.
03 - Place mozzarella string cheese sticks along the edge of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Fold the dough over the cheese and firmly press to seal, encasing the cheese in the crust.
04 - Spread pizza sauce evenly over the center, leaving the stuffed crust uncovered. Evenly distribute shredded mozzarella over the sauce, then arrange pepperoni slices across the cheese.
05 - Brush the stuffed crust with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle with optional garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or grated Parmesan if desired.
06 - Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
07 - Slice and serve warm for best taste and texture.
