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Deep Dish Cottage Pizza: A Nostalgic Comfort Food

There’s something magical about the aroma of baking bread mingling with savory sausage and the tang of tomato. It instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, a place filled with warmth, laughter, and the irresistible smells of home-cooked goodness. While she was famous for her Sunday pot roasts, she had a secret weapon for weeknight meals: a simple, hearty pizza that always hit the spot. This Deep Dish Cottage Pizza, reminiscent of those cherished memories, captures the essence of her uncomplicated cooking style – flavorful, comforting, and made with love. It’s not your average pizza; the cottage cheese adds a creamy tang that perfectly complements the savory sausage and sweet tomato.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 20-30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including rising time)
Servings: 4-6
Yield: 1 pizza
Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

13 3⁄4 ounces hot roll mix
1⁄2 lb bulk hot Italian sausage
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
16 ounces Borden cottage cheese
12 ounces tomato paste
1⁄2 cup chopped onion
1 teaspoon oregano leaves
1 teaspoon salt
1⁄2 cup chopped green pepper
1⁄2 cup Borden grated parmesan cheese and romano cheese

Equipment Needed

15×10-inch jellyroll pan (greased)
Large skillet
Medium bowl
Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Begin by preparing the hot roll mix according to the package directions. This is crucial for a light and airy crust. Once mixed, allow the dough to rise as instructed on the package. Proper rising is essential for the right texture.
While the dough is rising, prepare the sausage mixture. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the bulk hot Italian sausage along with the finely chopped garlic. Cook until the sausage is cooked through and no longer pink. Ensure you drain off any excess grease after browning. This prevents the pizza from becoming overly greasy.
In a medium bowl, combine the Borden cottage cheese, tomato paste, chopped onion, oregano leaves, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. This cottage cheese mixture forms the base of the pizza and adds a unique creamy and tangy flavor.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking to ensure even cooking.
Once the dough has risen, press it evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the greased 15×10-inch jellyroll pan. Make sure the dough covers the entire surface of the pan to create a deep-dish crust.
Spread the cottage cheese mixture evenly over the prepared dough, ensuring it reaches all the edges. This layer forms the base of the pizza flavor profile.
Sprinkle the cooked sausage and chopped green pepper evenly over the cottage cheese layer. Distribute the ingredients evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Top the pizza with the Borden grated parmesan cheese and romano cheese. The combination of these cheeses adds a sharp and salty finish to the pizza.
Let the assembled pizza rise for an additional 30 minutes. This second rise allows the dough to become even lighter and more airy.
Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on it. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the crust; it should come out clean.
Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage while browning. This will give the pizza a subtle kick.
If you prefer a smoother cottage cheese base, you can blend the cottage cheese with the tomato paste and spices in a food processor before spreading it on the crust.
To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, you can pre-bake it for 5-7 minutes before adding the toppings. This will help it crisp up nicely.
If you don’t have hot Italian sausage on hand, you can use sweet Italian sausage or even ground beef. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
If you want a crispier crust, place the pizza pan on a lower rack in the oven during the last few minutes of baking. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Deep Dish Cottage Pizza hot and fresh from the oven. It’s delicious on its own or with a side salad. For a more complete meal, consider serving it with a bowl of warm soup.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pizza slices on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the crust may become slightly soggy. For longer storage, you can freeze the pizza for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed above. Do not leave the pizza at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	957.4 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	405 g	42%
Total Fat	45 g	69%
Saturated Fat	16.7 g	83%
Cholesterol	84.7 mg	28%
Sodium	3790.3 mg	157%
Total Carbohydrate	93.4 g	31%
Dietary Fiber	6.6 g	26%
Sugars	27.9 g	N/A
Protein	46 g	92%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free hot roll mix or prepare your own gluten-free pizza dough.
Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions.
Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cottage cheese mixture or use a spicier Italian sausage.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar.
Crust Alternatives: Try using pre-made pizza dough or even a store-bought flatbread for a quicker and easier version.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
A: Yes, you can substitute low-fat cottage cheese for the regular cottage cheese. However, the flavor and texture may be slightly different.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before pressing it into the pan.

Q: Can I freeze the pizza after baking?
A: Yes, you can freeze the pizza after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Q: How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
A: Pre-baking the crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings can help prevent it from becoming soggy.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the pizza?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, onions, or olives.

Final Thoughts

This Deep Dish Cottage Pizza is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of home, a reminder of simpler times, and a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. Whether you’re sharing it with family and friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this pizza is sure to bring a smile to your face. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite beverage for the perfect meal. Happy baking!

Deep Dish Cottage Pizza Recipe