Crockpot Deep Dish Pizza – Easy, Homemade, and Delicious!

Crockpot Deep Dish Pizza takes just 15 minutes of prep and delivers thick, cheesy, and perfectly saucy pizza magic every time. It’s my ultimate slow cooker recipe for busy weeknights or whenever I’m craving that famous deep dish decadence without the hassle of a pizza oven. Trust me, your slow cooker is about to become your new pizza MVP.

Here’s why I love this shortcut: traditional deep dish pizza can take hours between prepping the dough, making the sauce, and baking. My homemade slow cooker pizza slashes your active time in half while still giving you everything you adore – melty cheese, savory toppings, and that incredible crust. While your slow cooker handles the heavy lifting, you’re free to relax, tackle to-dos, or prep a side salad. How’s that for multitasking?

Why This Crockpot Deep Dish Pizza Is a Game-Changer

• Hands-off cooking: Once the crust and toppings are in the slow cooker, you can walk away! No need to babysit the oven or rotate pans – just set it and forget it.
• Minimal prep time: This easy deep dish pizza recipe comes together in 15 minutes, thanks to shortcuts like canned crushed tomatoes and pre-cooked turkey sausage.
• No special equipment needed: All you need is your trusty slow cooker and a rolling pin – no pizza stone, no fancy gadgets.
• Perfect for multitasking: While it cooks, you can focus on other things, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
• Customizable: Swap toppings to fit your fridge or feed picky eaters. Pepperoni, mushrooms, or even a veggie-packed version? The choice is yours.

Equipment You’ll Need for This Crockpot Deep Dish Pizza

To make this deep dish pizza slow cooker recipe, you’ll need just a few basics:

• Large oval slow cooker: A 6-8 quart model works best to give the crust enough room to rise and support the toppings. I’ve used my trusty Crockpot, but any reliable slow cooker will do.
• Parchment paper: This makes lifting the pizza out a breeze without worrying about sticking.
• Saute pan: You’ll use this to bring out the flavor in your sauce. A small or medium skillet does the trick.
• Rolling pin: Essential for shaping the dough to fit your slow cooker. Don’t have one? A wine bottle works in a pinch.

Simple Ingredients for Crockpot Deep Dish Pizza

This recipe keeps things simple without skimping on flavor. Here are a few of the MVP ingredients that make it shine:

• Pizza dough: Store-bought or homemade, your choice! I love frozen dough for its convenience – just let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Crushed tomatoes: Canned tomatoes save tons of time and give you that bold, rich tomato flavor. Use a good-quality brand.
• Italian turkey sausage: Pre-cook and crumble this for a protein-packed topping that’s slightly lighter than traditional sausage.
• Cornmeal: Adds that signature texture to the crust and helps it bake up golden and delicious.

Crockpot Deep Dish Pizza Recipe Details

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

Crockpot Deep Dish Pizza Ingredients

• 1 pound homemade pizza dough or frozen pizza dough, thawed
• 2 tablespoons cornmeal
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 shallot, peeled and diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes (1 can)
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian Seasoning
• 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups shredded Italian blend cheese
• 1/2 pound Italian turkey sausage, cooked
• Garnishes: Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley

How to Make Crockpot Deep Dish Pizza

1. Roll the pizza dough on parchment paper into an oval 2 inches longer and wider than your slow cooker.
2. Sprinkle cornmeal on both sides of the dough, then lower it into the slow cooker using the parchment paper for support.
3. In a small saute pan, melt butter and saute shallots for 1-2 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Stir in tomatoes, Italian seasoning, sugar, and salt. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
5. Spread cheese evenly over the bottom crust. Lift and stretch the sides of the dough so they stand higher than the filling.
6. Add crumbled sausage on top of the cheese. Spread tomato sauce over the sausage.
7. Cover the slow cooker with kitchen paper towels to catch condensation, then secure the lid.
8. Cook on High for 2-4 hours (or Low for 4-6 hours). The pizza crust should be firm, golden, and puffed at the edges.
9. Carefully lift pizza out using the parchment paper. Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley for garnish.
10. Slice into 4 pieces and serve hot!

Jake’s Tips for the Best Crockpot Deep Dish Pizza

• Prevent soggy crust by using paper towels beneath the lid to absorb excess moisture.
• For extra cheesy goodness, layer in a bit more cheese between the sausage and sauce.
• Batch cook sausage ahead of time and freeze portions for quick pizza nights.
• Reheat leftovers in a skillet to crisp up the crust again.

Easy Crockpot Deep Dish Pizza Variations

• Pepperoni Lover’s: Sub turkey sausage with pepperoni for a classic swap.
• Veggie Packed: Add fresh mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives for a vegetarian spin.
• BBQ Chicken: Use shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, and red onion for a tangy twist.

Crockpot Deep Dish Pizza FAQs

Can I use a round slow cooker?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the dough shape. Roll it into a circle and check that it fits before assembling the pizza.

How do I know when the pizza is done?

Look for a golden crust that’s firm to the touch and edges that have risen slightly above the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prep your crust and toppings the night before and store them in the fridge. Assemble and cook when ready to eat.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a skillet over low heat with the lid on for a few minutes to restore the crispy crust.

This Crockpot Deep Dish Pizza makes pizza night simpler and way more fun. What toppings will you try first? Share your creations!