Ingredients:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup finely chopped dill pickles (about 6-8 medium pickles)
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 6–8 additional thinly sliced dill pickle rounds
  • (Optional) ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in the warm water. Let sit for 5–7 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough begins to form. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  2. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If available, set a pizza stone on the middle rack. Alternatively, lightly oil a 12-inch round pizza pan or a deep-dish pie plate.
  3. Prepare the Tangy Pickle Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped dill pickles, sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir well until smooth and well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning; the sauce should have a tangy, slightly salty bite.
  4. Assemble the Pizza: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and transfer it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. For a pie presentation, press and shape the dough into a round, deep-dish form on your prepared pan. Evenly spread the tangy pickle sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edge. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, then follow with the grated Parmesan. Arrange the thin pickle rounds over the cheese. If using bacon, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the toppings.
  5. Bake the Pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and beginning to brown. If using a pizza stone, transfer the pizza with a pizza peel or a flat baking sheet.
  6. Finishing Touches: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest for 3–5 minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped dill over the top. Slice into 8 generous slices and serve warm.