Introduction
Chicago Deep Dish Pizza is an iconic dish that hails from the city of Chicago, Illinois. Known for its thick, buttery crust, generous layers of cheese, chunky tomato sauce, and assorted toppings, this pizza style is a favorite among pizza enthusiasts for its hearty and indulgent flavors. Unlike traditional thin-crust pizzas, Chicago Deep Dish Pizza is baked in a deep-dish pan, resulting in a pizza that’s more akin to a savory pie than a traditional pizza. In this guide, we’ll explore how to make this legendary pizza at home, featuring key ingredients, preparation techniques, and tips for success.
Video instructions available below 👇
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Pizza Filling:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup chunky tomato sauce
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pizza Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and yeast. Gradually add the warm water and melted butter, stirring until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch deep-dish pizza pan or cast-iron skillet with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared pizza pan. Press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan, forming a thick crust.
- Layer the Fillings:
- Layer the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the bottom of the pizza crust. Top with cooked Italian sausage, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, and black olives.
- Pour the chunky tomato sauce over the toppings and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
- Bake the Pizza:
- Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the Chicago Deep Dish Pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy hot and fresh, with additional grated Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes on top if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use a deep-dish pizza pan or cast-iron skillet to achieve the signature thick crust of Chicago Deep Dish Pizza.
- Precooking the Italian sausage ensures that it’s fully cooked and doesn’t release excess moisture onto the pizza during baking.
- Customize the pizza with your favorite toppings, such as pepperoni, onions, spinach, or artichoke hearts, for a personalized touch.
- Be sure to spread the toppings evenly over the crust to ensure that each slice has a balanced flavor.
- Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing to allow the cheese to set and prevent the toppings from sliding off.
Conclusion
Chicago Deep Dish Pizza is a beloved culinary treasure that captures the heart and soul of the Windy City. With its thick, buttery crust, layers of gooey cheese, and assortment of savory toppings, this pizza style offers a unique and indulgent dining experience that’s unlike any other. By following this guide and incorporating the suggested ingredients, instructions, and tips, you can create a homemade Chicago Deep Dish Pizza that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. So roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of Chicago’s culinary legacy right in your own kitchen!