Deep Dish Pizza
Deep Dish Pizza is a Chicago-style classic with a thick, buttery crust, layers of gooey cheese, and a rich tomato sauce. This homemade version captures the iconic flavors and textures for an authentic deep-dish experience.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Rolling Pin
- 9-inch or 10-inch Deep-Dish Pan
- Large Skillet
- Ladle
- Oven
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal for texture
- 1 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast 2 1/4 teaspoons
- 1 1/4 cups warm water 110°F (45°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Tomato Sauce
- 1 can San Marzano crushed tomatoes 28 oz
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
Toppings
- 3 cups low-moisture mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 lb Italian sausage cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni optional
- 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms optional
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated, for topping
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6-8 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- For the sauce, heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9-inch or 10-inch deep-dish pan with butter or oil.
- Roll out the dough into a large circle, about 1/4-inch thick. Press it into the pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and reaches up the sides.
- Spread an even layer of mozzarella cheese on the dough to create a moisture barrier.
- Add cooked Italian sausage, pepperoni, and any optional toppings like mushrooms.
- Spoon the tomato sauce evenly over the toppings.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
- Let the pizza rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.
- Serve hot and enjoy your homemade deep dish pizza!
Notes
For a crispier crust, brush the edges with melted butter before baking. To avoid a soggy crust, always place cheese before adding the sauce. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.