Deep Dish Pizza Recipe – Making Chicago-Style Pizza at Home

If you’re a pizza lover, you’ve probably heard of the famous Chicago-style deep dish pizza. With its thick, buttery crust, gooey mozzarella cheese, flavorful tomato sauce, and generous toppings, this pizza is unlike any other. But did you know you can make this delicious masterpiece right in your own kitchen? This guide will walk you through every step of creating an authentic deep dish pizza from scratch. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s get started!

What is Deep Dish Pizza?

Deep dish pizza is a type of pizza developed in Chicago in the 1940s. Unlike the thin-crust pizzas commonly found in Italy and New York, a deep dish pizza is baked in a tall, round pan, giving it its characteristic thick crust and layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings. The crust is buttery and flaky, almost like a pie, and the filling is rich and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a list of ingredients for a classic Chicago-style deep dish pizza.

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 3/4 cup warm water (110°F to 115°F)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)

For the Toppings:

• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1/2 cup sliced green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm water with sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, and salt. Stir in the melted butter and olive oil until well mixed.
3. Combine and Knead: Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.

2. Make the Sauce

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Add the Tomatoes and Spices: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, and add oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 20-30 minutes until thickened.
3. Adjust the Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Set aside to cool.

3. Assemble the Pizza

     1.  Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

    2. Prepare the Pan: Grease a deep dish pizza pan or a round cake pan with olive oil. Roll out the dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Place the dough into the pan, pressing it up the sides to form a crust.

    3. Layer the Cheese and Toppings: Start with a layer of mozzarella cheese directly on the dough. This prevents the crust from getting soggy. Add the sausage, pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives.

   4. Add the Sauce: Spoon the sauce over the toppings, spreading it evenly. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

4. Bake the Pizza

1. Bake: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
2. Cool and Serve: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Tips for the Perfect Deep Dish Pizza:

• Choose the Right Pan: A deep dish pizza pan or a round cake pan works best. A cast-iron skillet can also be used for a crisper crust.
• Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better and has a creamier texture compared to pre-shredded cheese.
• Don’t Rush the Dough: Allow the dough to rise properly. This is crucial for achieving the perfect, flaky crust.
• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different meats, vegetables, or cheeses to make the pizza uniquely yours.

Variations and Alternatives:

• Vegetarian Deep Dish Pizza: Swap the sausage and pepperoni for additional veggies like spinach, artichokes, or zucchini.
• Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for bread-making.
• Healthier Options: Substitute whole wheat flour for some or all of the all-purpose flour for a healthier crust.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair your deep dish pizza with a fresh salad, such as a Caesar or mixed greens, to balance the richness of the dish. A glass of red wine, like Chianti or a light beer, can complement the flavors perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What makes deep dish pizza different from regular pizza?
   • The main difference is in the crust and the baking method. Deep dish pizza has a thick, buttery crust and is layered with cheese first, then toppings, and sauce on top.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
3. How do I reheat leftover deep dish pizza?
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the pizza on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Conclusion:

Making a Chicago-style deep dish pizza at home is not only a fun cooking project but also a rewarding one. With this recipe, you can enjoy a slice of Chicago wherever you are. Try this deep dish pizza recipe today and bring the rich flavors of the Windy City to your dinner table.