How To Make Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza

Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza isn’t just a pizza—it’s a culinary innovation that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of millions. Combining the gooey richness of melted cheese, the spicy kick of pepperoni, and a doughy crust that surprises you with a cheesy center, this pizza variation is more than a trend—it’s a staple.

At RecipesTasteful.com, our passion is reimagining comfort food in ways that elevate everyday meals. Our story began with a deep desire to bring restaurant-style indulgence into home kitchens, where creativity and flavor meet. That’s why we’re diving deep into everything there is to know about stuffed crust pepperoni pizza—from recipes and nutritional facts to tips for making it better than your favorite pizza chain.

This article will walk you through exactly how to make a homemade version that rivals DiGiorno or Pizza Hut, break down calorie counts for health-conscious readers, and even answer the most searched-for questions about toppings, sauces, and more.

If you’ve ever craved a slice that offers a perfect blend of chewy, cheesy, and crispy all at once—you’re in the right place.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

What Is Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza?

Stuffed crust pepperoni pizza is exactly what it sounds like: a classic pepperoni pizza with an added twist. Instead of ending the crust with just baked dough, this pizza innovation fills the outer rim with cheese—typically mozzarella—creating a savory surprise in every bite.

It’s the ultimate hybrid between pizza and cheese breadsticks. And while the concept may seem new to some, it has been around for decades and is continuously being reinvented in kitchens and pizzerias across the globe.

Origins of Stuffed Crust Pizza

Stuffed crust was popularized in the mid-1990s when Pizza Hut introduced it to mainstream audiences. Although various forms existed before, it was this commercial debut that propelled the concept into pizza history.

Since then, other brands like Little Caesars and DiGiorno have created their own versions, each offering unique twists such as garlic-seasoned crusts, extra cheese fillings, or wild variations like “crazy crust.”

At its core, though, the goal remains the same: enhance the outer crust so that no slice goes uneaten.

Distinctive Ingredients That Set It Apart

Unlike traditional pizzas, stuffed crust pepperoni pizza includes an essential extra layer—cheese sealed within the crust itself. While most pizzerias use mozzarella, home chefs can customize with cheddar, provolone, or even herbed cheese blends.

Here’s what makes it different:

• Stuffed Border: String cheese or shredded mozzarella is wrapped into the dough edges.
• Dense Cheese Layering: In addition to the crust, mozzarella is layered over the sauce and topped with sliced pepperoni.
• Crispier Crust Texture: Because the dough is double-folded, the edges become thicker and crispier upon baking.

When paired with a well-seasoned tomato sauce and bold pepperoni, these elements combine for a truly satisfying flavor profile.

Health & Nutrition: Calories, Cheese & Sauce

Pizza isn’t always seen as health food, but understanding its components helps you make smarter choices—especially when it comes to cheese-stuffed varieties.

Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Calories – Breakdown by Serving

The calorie count for a single slice of stuffed crust pepperoni pizza varies depending on the brand and serving size. On average:

• Homemade (like our recipe): ~320–370 calories per slice
• Pizza Hut: ~380–420 calories per slice
• DiGiorno Frozen: ~340 calories per slice
• Little Caesars: ~390–430 calories per slice

These estimates include cheese, sauce, crust, and pepperoni. Using lighter cheese or reduced-fat pepperoni can reduce the overall calorie count by up to 15%.

Pizza Hut & Little Caesars Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Calories

Comparing national chains gives helpful benchmarks:

• Pizza Hut Stuffed Crust Pepperoni: A large slice (1/8th of the pie) can contain 390–420 calories depending on toppings.
• Little Caesars ExtraMostBestest Stuffed Crust: One slice is typically about 410 calories, with a higher fat content due to extra cheese and meat toppings.

If you’re concerned about your intake, creating your own stuffed crust pepperoni pizza allows for portion control and ingredient substitution.

You can also find healthier variations of this recipe on our website’s Stuffed Pizza Recipes section.

The Ultimate Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Recipe

Making your own stuffed crust pepperoni pizza at home might sound intimidating, but it’s actually quite simple—and incredibly rewarding. The key lies in choosing quality ingredients and following a reliable method to ensure the crust seals perfectly while baking evenly.

Here’s a foolproof recipe using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, with optional customizations to elevate your flavor game.

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Ingredients You’ll Need (Plus Variations)

Below are the core ingredients needed to make the classic version of stuffed crust pepperoni pizza. These exact measurements yield a 13×9-inch pan pizza that serves about 4–6 people.

• 6 pieces Sargento® String Cheese

String cheese works great for stuffing the crust because of its shape and melting behavior. You can substitute with other cheese sticks or even use a cheese blend for a sharper flavor.

• 1/2 cup Pizza Sauce

Choose a robust, tangy tomato-based sauce. Look for one that’s low in sugar and includes herbs like oregano, basil, and garlic. You can also use a homemade pizza sauce—check out our easy homemade pizza sauce recipe.

• 20 slices Pepperoni

Classic pepperoni offers that smoky, spicy burst of flavor. Feel free to use turkey pepperoni or even a vegetarian alternative if you’re looking to cut back on fat.

• 1 cup (4 oz.) Sargento® Shredded Mozzarella

Mozzarella is the most popular cheese used on pizza due to its melting quality and mild flavor. Mixing it with provolone or parmesan gives a gourmet twist.

• 1 can (10 oz.) Refrigerated Pizza Crust

This saves time and effort. Pillsbury or any supermarket brand will work. For those who prefer homemade dough, try our recipe in the Easy Dough Collection.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to preheat fully. A hot oven ensures that your crust becomes golden and crispy without overcooking the cheese.

2. Prepare the Crust

• Unroll the pizza crust and press it into a greased 13×9-inch pan.
• Press the dough firmly along the bottom and 1 inch up the sides of the pan.

3. Create the Stuffed Crust

• Place the six pieces of Sargento® string cheese along the inner edges of the crust.
• Carefully fold the dough over the cheese and press to seal. It’s important to pinch the edges tightly to keep the cheese inside while baking.

4. Add the Toppings

• Spread 1/2 cup of pizza sauce evenly over the surface of the dough.
• Layer 20 slices of pepperoni across the top.
• Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese generously over everything.

5. Bake to Perfection

• Place your assembled pizza in the oven.
• Bake for 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

6. Cool and Serve

Let the pizza rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese inside the crust to set and avoids burns from molten cheese.

Easy Homemade Stuffed Crust Pizza Tips

• Crust Seal is Key: Be sure the crust is firmly sealed over the cheese. If you don’t, the cheese could leak out and burn.
• Add Flavor to the Crust: Brush melted garlic butter on the folded-over crust edges before baking for added taste.
• Get Creative with Toppings: Try mushrooms, green peppers, jalapeños, or even pineapple for variety.
• Reheating Tips: To maintain crust crispiness, reheat slices in an oven or skillet rather than the microwave.

With this recipe, you can bring the indulgent flavor of Pizza Hut or DiGiorno stuffed crust pepperoni pizza right into your own kitchen. And the best part? You control the ingredients.

Sauces & Toppings: Elevating the Flavor

To create an unforgettable stuffed crust pepperoni pizza, choosing the right sauce and toppings is essential. Whether you’re a minimalist or love flavor bombs, here’s how to customize your master pizza.

Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Sauce – Best Types

The sauce not only complements the gooey cheese in the crust but sets the entire flavor profile. Here are top options:

• Classic Marinara: A tangy tomato-based sauce with oregano and garlic works perfectly with melted cheese and spicy pepperoni.
• Spicy Arrabbiata: Add crushed red pepper flakes for those who like heat—an excellent choice for bold pizza drinkers.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan: A white sauce with garlic and parmesan adds a rich twist, especially when paired with extra cheese in the crust.

People also search for “Stuffed crust pepperoni pizza sauce”—this is your go-to list of delicious condiment choices.

Try It At Home: CookTune’s Pizza Crust Base

CookTune offers a homemade crust recipe that’s perfect for stuffing—airy, flavorful, and totally customizable cooktune.com. Combine it with a robust tomato sauce to get a truly delicious crust experience.

Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Toppings – Pepperoni Plus Extras

Pepperoni is the classic star, but smart, layered toppings can elevate your pizza to the next level. Here’s my favorite method:

1. Core Topping—Pepperoni: Thin, non-overlapping slices help each slice crisp and curl at the edges.
2. Cheese Blend: Mix mozzarella with provolone or a touch of parmesan for complexity.
3. Savory Add-Ons: Crimini mushrooms, caramelized onions, or sautéed bell peppers add umami and color.
4. Finished Touches: A handful of fresh arugula or basil added after baking keeps things bright and fresh.

People also search for “Stuffed crust pepperoni pizza toppings”—these suggestions cover the most popular and creative combinations.

What Toppings to Add to Pepperoni Pizza?

Here’s a quick bulleted list of crowd favorites:

• Jalapeños or banana peppers (for spice lovers)
• Black olives or artichoke hearts (for Mediterranean flair)
• Pineapple with Canadian bacon (if you’re team Hawaiian)
• Bacon bits and red onion (for a gourmet twist)
• Sun-dried tomatoes and spinach (for extra nutrients)

The sky’s the limit, especially when you control the combination of sauce, cheese, and topping layers.

Stuffed Crazy Crust Pepperoni – What Is It?

If you’ve come across the term stuffed crazy crust pepperoni, you might wonder what sets it apart from the traditional version. It’s all about texture, creativity, and boldness.

Stuffed crazy crust pepperoni refers to a pizza where not only is the crust filled with cheese, but it’s also coated on the outside with seasonings, cheese, or even crunchy toppings. Imagine the crust seasoned like garlic breadsticks or rolled in parmesan before baking—delicious, right?

Comparison: Crazy Crust vs. Classic Stuffed Crust

Feature	Classic Stuffed Crust	Crazy Crust Stuffed Pizza
Cheese Inside Crust	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
External Crust Flavoring	❌ No	✅ Yes (seasoned)
Texture	Soft & Cheesy	Crunchy & Bold
Visual Appeal	Traditional	Eye-Catching
Popularity	Widely Available	Trendy, Less Common

If you’re feeling adventurous, crazy crust is a great way to wow guests or spice up pizza night.

Making It at Home – How to Make a DiGiorno Stuffed Crust Pizza?

If you’re not starting from scratch, frozen stuffed crust pizzas like DiGiorno offer a tasty and fast alternative. Still, many home chefs want to elevate them. Here’s how you can do just that.

Oven Method vs Frozen Pizza Convenience

DiGiorno’s stuffed crust pepperoni pizza comes with everything included—cheese in the crust, pepperoni, and sauce. All you need is an oven. But there are ways to improve it:

Pro Tips for Upgrading DiGiorno’s Stuffed Crust

• Preheat a Pizza Stone: Instead of baking it on a metal tray, use a pizza stone to mimic brick-oven cooking.
• Add Extra Cheese: Midway through cooking, sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella or parmesan on top.
• Enhance the Crust: Brush melted garlic butter on the edges in the last 5 minutes of baking.
• More Toppings: Layer extra pepperoni or fresh veggies before baking to create a custom touch.

This way, you’re not just heating a frozen pizza—you’re customizing it into a gourmet version.

Brand Spotlight: Pizza Hut vs Little Caesars Stuffed Crust

Let’s talk about the most searched-for pizza chains when it comes to stuffed crust pepperoni pizza. Two brands dominate the market—Pizza Hut and Little Caesars. Here’s how they compare:

Pizza Hut-Style Stuffed Crust Pizza Features

• Signature Cheese Ring: Known for its thick layer of gooey mozzarella encased in the crust.
• Consistent Texture: Soft crust with a buttery finish.
• Calories: Roughly 390–420 per slice, depending on toppings.
• Sauce: Balanced between tangy and savory.

Pizza Hut’s version is ideal if you prefer a rich, indulgent stuffed crust experience.

Little Caesars Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Perks

• ExtraMostBestest Stuffed Crust: Packs extra cheese and pepperoni at a budget-friendly price.
• Crust Texture: Slightly crisper than Pizza Hut, with a firmer cheese layer.
• Calories: Around 410 per slice, often with bolder flavors.

Little Caesars offers a punchier, saltier profile—great if you’re craving bold taste on a budget.

Tips for Perfecting Homemade Stuffed Crust

Whether you’re using refrigerated dough or making your own, mastering a stuffed crust takes technique. Here are the top tips to keep in mind:

Dough Tricks

• Don’t over-stretch: Stretch the dough enough to fold over cheese but not so thin that it tears.
• Let it rest: After rolling out your dough, let it sit for 5–10 minutes before stuffing and shaping.

Cheese Options

• String cheese is the easiest to handle and melts smoothly.
• Pre-shredded mozzarella works too, but you’ll need to roll it into a log shape before stuffing.

Baking Times

• Bake in a fully preheated oven to ensure even cooking.
• Keep an eye on the crust. When it turns golden brown and the cheese bubbles, it’s ready.

Conclusion

When it comes to comfort food, stuffed crust pepperoni pizza is truly in a class of its own. With its gooey, cheese-filled crust, bold pepperoni flavor, and customizable toppings, it offers a satisfying twist on the classic pie. Whether you’re indulging in a frozen favorite, ordering from Pizza Hut or Little Caesars, or making your own at home, this pizza style delivers maximum flavor in every bite.

From the perfect sauce pairings to choosing the right cheese and sealing that crust edge just right, we’ve shown how to take your pizza-making skills to the next level. Plus, with smart substitutions and creative add-ons, it’s easy to keep things both delicious and fresh.

At RecipesTasteful.com, we believe that great food should be accessible and exciting. And what’s more exciting than turning an everyday meal into something unforgettable?

So next time you’re craving pizza night, don’t settle for boring. Go bold. Go cheesy. Go stuffed crust.

FAQ: Your Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Questions Answered