Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

why make this recipe

This Chicago-style deep dish pizza gives you a thick, buttery crust and lots of cheese and sauce. It fills a crowd and feels like a warm meal. You can make it at home with simple ingredients. You can also pair it with simple sides like easy side dishes.

introduction

This recipe makes a deep, rich pizza with cheese on the bottom and sauce on top. The crust has cornmeal for a little bite. The pizza bakes in a deep pan or skillet. It is filling and tastes like a classic Chicago pie.

how to make Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

1. Proof the yeast: In a bowl, mix warm water and sugar, then sprinkle yeast on top. Let sit about 5 minutes until bubbly.
2. Make the dough: In another bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, salt, and melted butter. Add the yeast mixture slowly and knead until smooth.
3. Let dough rise: Cover and let the dough rise about 1 hour, until it doubles.
4. Preheat oven: Set oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. Shape the crust: Roll out the dough and press it into a greased deep dish pan or cast-iron skillet. Make the edges rise above the pan a bit.
6. Layer cheese and toppings: Put shredded mozzarella on the bottom so it sits between the crust and sauce. Add toppings you like.
7. Add sauce: Pour rich tomato sauce over the toppings. Spread gently.
8. Bake: Put pizza in the oven for 25–30 minutes. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Rest and serve: Let pizza cool a few minutes before slicing so it holds together.

Ingredients :

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup cornmeal, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast, 1 cup warm water, 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 cups rich tomato sauce, Toppings of choice (e.g., pepperoni, vegetables)

Directions :

1. In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar, then sprinkle yeast on top. Allow to sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
2. In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, salt, and melted butter. Gradually add yeast mixture and knead until smooth. Let rise for about an hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
4. Roll out the dough and fit it into a greased deep dish pizza pan or cast-iron skillet.
5. Layer mozzarella cheese on the bottom, followed by your choice of toppings.
6. Pour rich tomato sauce over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
8. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

how to serve Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

Cut the pizza into large wedges. Serve warm. Use a sturdy spatula to lift slices. A simple salad or roasted vegetables go well with this pizza.

how to store Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

Cool to room temperature. Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, about 10–15 minutes.

tips to make Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

• Use a well-greased pan so the crust comes out easily.
• Put cheese first to keep the crust from getting soggy.
• Do not overload with sauce. Too much sauce can make the center heavy.
• Let the dough rise fully for a light crust.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat.

variation (if any)

• Make a vegetarian version with mushrooms, peppers, and onions.
• Add Italian sausage or pepperoni for a meat version.
• Use different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a richer taste.
• Try a whole wheat and cornmeal mix for a heartier crust.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it warm and rise before shaping.

Q: Can I use store-bought pizza sauce?
A: Yes. Use any rich tomato sauce you like. Homemade works well, but store-bought saves time.

Q: How do I know when the pizza is done?
A: The crust should be golden brown and the cheese should bubble. The center should feel set when you press lightly.

Q: Can I freeze leftover pizza?
A: Yes. Wrap slices well and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Q: What pan works best for deep dish pizza?
A: A deep dish pizza pan or a cast-iron skillet works best for even baking and crisp crust.

Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

• Author: bennacer-blogbrandinggmail-com
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A classic Chicago-style deep dish pizza featuring a thick, buttery crust filled with cheese and topped with rich tomato sauce.

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Ingredients

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• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups rich tomato sauce
• Toppings of choice (e.g., pepperoni, vegetables)

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Instructions

1. Mix warm water and sugar in a bowl, then sprinkle yeast on top. Let sit about 5 minutes until bubbly.
2. Add flour, cornmeal, salt, and melted butter in another bowl. Slowly add the yeast mixture and knead until smooth.
3. Cover and let the dough rise about 1 hour, until it doubles.
4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. Roll out the dough and press it into a greased deep dish pan or cast-iron skillet.
6. Layer shredded mozzarella on the bottom, followed by toppings.
7. Pour rich tomato sauce over the toppings and spread gently.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
9. Let cool a few minutes before slicing to hold together.

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Notes

Use a well-greased pan to ensure the crust comes out easily. Don’t overload with sauce to prevent a soggy crust.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 35mg