Why Make This Recipe

Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza is a unique twist on the classic pizza. This pizza is known for its thick, buttery crust, and layers of cheese and toppings. It’s a great comfort food that satisfies everyone in the family. Making it at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the toppings to your liking.

How to Make Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

Ingredients

2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
1 ½ teaspoons sugar
1 ¼ cups warm water
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup yellow cornmeal
1 ½ teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons melted butter
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sauce)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni (optional)

Directions

Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
Add flour, cornmeal, salt, olive oil, and melted butter. Mix and knead until smooth.
Cover and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 1 to 2 hours or until doubled in size.
In a saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Simmer for 20–30 minutes until thickened.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Grease a 9–10 inch deep dish pan with butter or oil.
Press the dough into the pan, pushing it up the sides to form a crust.
Layer in the mozzarella cheese first, followed by the cooked sausage or pepperoni if using.
Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the toppings.
Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, covering with foil halfway if needed.
Let cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

Serve the pizza hot, cut into generous slices. It goes well with a simple salad or your favorite dipping sauce. You can also add extra herbs or chili flakes on top for additional flavor.

How to Store Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pizza in the oven or microwave until warm.

Tips to Make Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

Make sure your yeast is fresh; expired yeast will not rise properly.
For an extra crispy crust, bake the pizza a little longer.
Feel free to add your favorite toppings or veggies to customize the pizza.

Variation

You can make a vegetarian version of this pizza by adding more vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.

2. Is it necessary to use cornmeal?
Cornmeal gives the crust a nice texture, but you can omit it if you prefer. Just replace it with more flour.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover pizza. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to eat it.