Introduction:
Chicago-style deep dish pizza is a beloved dish known for its deep, buttery crust, rich tomato sauce, and layers of cheese and toppings.
Unlike the traditional thin-crust pizza, the deep-dish version is more like a pizza pie, with a thick crust that forms a bowl to hold all the delicious ingredients.
The balance of gooey cheese, savory sauce, and crispy crust makes it a unique and satisfying pizza experience. Making this iconic pizza at home requires a bit of time and effort, but the end result is well worth it.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon cornmeal (for sprinkling)
For the filling:
1 lb Italian sausage (or your preferred meat, such as pepperoni or beef)
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir to combine, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
Prepare the sauce: While the dough is rising, heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and grease a 9-inch or 10-inch deep-dish pizza pan (or springform pan) with olive oil. Sprinkle the bottom with cornmeal.
Assemble the pizza: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a large circle, about 12-14 inches in diameter. Carefully transfer the dough to the prepared pan, pressing it up the sides to form a crust. Layer the mozzarella cheese evenly on the bottom of the dough, followed by the sausage mixture and a generous spoonful of tomato sauce on top. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Bake the pizza: Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. If the crust is getting too brown, cover the edges with foil to prevent over-browning.
Cool and serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, slice, and enjoy!
Description: This Chicago-style deep dish pizza is a hearty and filling dish, perfect for those who love a substantial pizza experience. With its buttery crust, generous layers of cheese, and savory sauce filled with sausage and herbs, every bite is a delicious combination of textures and flavors. The deep dish structure ensures that every slice is packed with toppings, making it a favorite for pizza lovers who enjoy a pizza that’s more like a meal.
Tips:
Make sure to let the dough rise properly to achieve a light, airy crust.
For a crispier crust, blind bake the crust for 5-7 minutes before adding toppings.
You can use store-bought dough for convenience if you’re short on time, but homemade dough will provide the best texture and flavor.
Feel free to customize the toppings. Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach for a variation.
If the pizza is too difficult to remove from the pan, try using parchment paper to line the pan before assembling.
Variations:
Vegetarian version: Omit the sausage and add your favorite vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach.
Meat-lover’s pizza: Add more meat, such as pepperoni, bacon, or ground beef, along with the sausage.
Cheese explosion: Layer in more cheese, such as provolone or cheddar, for a cheesier pizza.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free pizza crust if needed.
Correction: Ensure the dough is spread evenly along the sides of the pan for a uniform crust. If the dough rises too much during baking, gently press it down to maintain the deep-dish structure. You can also cover the pizza with foil halfway through baking to prevent the top from overbrowning while the inside finishes cooking.
Enjoy: Once your pizza is baked to perfection, serve it hot and enjoy the layers of cheesy, meaty goodness! This deep-dish pizza is perfect for family gatherings, pizza nights, or any occasion when you want a filling and satisfying meal. Enjoy!