Homemade Digiorno Pizza Cheese Stuffed Crust Five Cheese Recipe: The Secret to a Gooier, Healthier Crust at Home

Category: Pizza

Introduction

Digiorno Pizza is a beloved name in the frozen food aisle, offering a convenient and satisfying meal solution for pizza lovers. Among its popular offerings, the Cheese Stuffed Crust Five Cheese Pizza stands out for its indulgent, cheesy crust and rich flavor profile. However, while store-bought options are convenient, they often come with higher sodium content, preservatives, and less control over the quality of ingredients. Making this pizza at home allows you to enjoy the same delightful experience with the freedom to customize and enhance its nutritional value.

The Digiorno brand, known for its "It's not delivery, it's DiGiorno!" slogan, has been a staple in many households since its introduction in - The Cheese Stuffed Crust Five Cheese Pizza, with its signature stuffed crust filled with melted cheese and topped with a blend of five cheeses, has become a fan favorite. But why settle for the frozen version when you can create a homemade version that's not only fresher but also potentially healthier and more flavorful?

In this recipe, we'll guide you through creating a homemade version of Digiorno's Cheese Stuffed Crust Five Cheese Pizza. By using common household ingredients and a few clever techniques, you'll achieve that same golden, cheesy crust and delicious toppings without the need for preservatives or excessive sodium. Plus, this recipe allows for customization, so you can tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences and taste buds.

Why Make It at Home?

Making pizza at home offers several advantages over store-bought options. For one, you have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to choose fresher, higher-quality components. This not only enhances the flavor but also lets you manage factors like sodium content and the types of cheese used. Additionally, homemade pizza can be more cost-effective in the long run, as you can buy ingredients in bulk and customize portions to your liking. Best of all, homemade pizza can be tailored to accommodate various dietary needs, such as gluten-free or vegan options, making it accessible to everyone.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the first time I tried Digiorno's Cheese Stuffed Crust Pizza; it was a game-changer. The ooey-gooey cheese in the crust was unlike anything I'd had before. But as I grew more conscious of what I eat, I found myself wanting to recreate that same magic with healthier ingredients. After several trials and errors, countless batches of dough, and a lot of cheese experimentation, I finally nailed down a recipe that not only mirrors the original but also offers a better nutritional profile. Now, I can enjoy that same cheesy goodness without any of the preservatives or excessive sodium found in the store-bought version.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:30 minutes
• **Cook Time:25 minutes
• **Total Time:55 minutes
• **Yield:4-6 servings

Ingredients

Dough Ingredients:

• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp (5g) salt
• 1 tsp (5g) sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water (110°F or 45°C)
• 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil

Filling for the Stuffed Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup (60g) cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup (30g) Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup (30g) ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup (30g) provolone cheese, shredded
• 1 tbsp (15g) Italian seasoning

Pizza Toppings:

• 1 cup (240ml) pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 1/2 cups (190g) mozzarella cheese, shredded (for the top)
• 1/2 cup (60g) cheddar cheese, shredded (for the top)
• 1/4 cup (30g) Parmesan cheese, grated (for the top)
• 1/4 cup (30g) ricotta cheese (for the top)
• 1/4 cup (30g) provolone cheese, shredded (for the top)
• Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, sausage, vegetables)

Instructions

• Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is activated and frothy.
• Mix Dough Ingredients: Add the flour, salt, sugar, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
• Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Let Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 10-15 minutes until doubled in size.
• Prepare the Stuffed Crust Filling: In a bowl, mix all the cheeses and Italian seasoning.
• Roll Out the Dough: Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
• Stuff the Crust: Spread the cheese mixture along the edges of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Fold the dough over the cheese to form the stuffed crust.
• Assemble the Pizza: Place the dough on a greased pizza pan or baking sheet. Spread the pizza sauce over the dough, leaving the stuffed crust edges clear. Top with the remaining cheeses and any desired toppings.
• Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
• Cool and Serve: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store cooled pizza in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Variations

Healthier Version:

• Use whole wheat flour for the dough.
• Reduce the amount of cheese or use lower-fat options.
• Load up on vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms.

Spicy Version:

• Add red pepper flakes to the dough and cheese mixture.
• Top with spicy pepperoni or jalapeños.

Smoky Version:

• Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the cheese mixture.
• Use smoked mozzarella for a deeper flavor.

Special Equipment

• Pizza Stone: Preheat in the oven for a crispier crust.
• Pizza Peel: For easy transfer to the oven.
• Stand Mixer: With a dough hook attachment for easier mixing and kneading.

Pro Tips

• Ensure the Right Temperature: Keep the yeast at the right temperature to activate properly for a light and airy dough.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix just until ingredients come together to avoid a tough crust.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dough to rise adequately ensures a fluffy and well-risen crust.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh yeast instead of active dry yeast?
  Yes, but you'll need to adjust the quantity. Fresh yeast is more potent, so use about 1/3 the amount called for in dry yeast.

• What if I don't have a pizza stone?
  You can bake the pizza on a regular baking sheet or oven-safe skillet. Preheating the sheet in the oven can help crisp the crust.

• How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
  Ensure the oven is preheated fully, and bake the pizza towards the lower rack to crisp the bottom.

• Can I make the dough ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight for up to 24 hours.

• What if I'm gluten-free?
  Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and add xanthan gum for structure.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Combo: Pair with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Dip It: Use leftover pizza slices as dippers for marinara or ranch dressing.
• Breakfast Pizza: Top with scrambled eggs and bacon for a morning twist.

Conclusion

Creating a homemade version of Digiorno's Cheese Stuffed Crust Five Cheese Pizza not only satisfies your cravings but also offers a healthier, more customizable alternative. With this recipe, you can enjoy the same cheesy, gooey crust and flavorful toppings without the preservatives found in store-bought versions. Whether you're feeding a family or enjoying a cozy night in, this pizza is sure to be a hit. So go ahead, get creative, and make it your own—your taste buds (and your health) will thank you!