HOMEMADE CHICAGO STYLE DEEP DISH PIZZA

Chicago-style deep dish pizza is a beloved American classic known for its rich, hearty layers, crispy crust, and gooey cheese. Unlike the thin crust pizzas of other regions, this pie is more like a savory pie filled with layers of cheese, chunky tomato sauce, and savory toppings. If you’re a pizza lover or want to impress guests with a show-stopping dish, this homemade Chicago-style deep dish pizza recipe is the perfect option.

Ingredients for the Crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon cornmeal (optional, for extra crunch)

Ingredients for the Filling:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb Italian sausage, crumbled
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves (optional for garnish)

Directions:

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and olive oil. Gradually add the yeast mixture and stir to form a dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp towel. Let it rise for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and cook until browned. Remove any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Veggies: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the same skillet, cooking until the onion is softened and fragrant.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9-inch deep-dish pizza pan with olive oil. If you want extra crispiness, sprinkle a thin layer of cornmeal on the bottom of the pan.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Roll out one half of the dough into a large circle to fit the pan. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pan to form the crust.
4. Layer the Cheese: Place a generous layer of mozzarella cheese on the dough. Add a layer of cooked sausage and vegetable mixture, followed by more mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
5. Top with Sauce: Pour the simmered tomato sauce over the cheese and sausage, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

1. Bake the Pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
2. Cool and Slice: Let the pizza cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

• Authentic Flavor: With a rich, flavorful crust and perfectly balanced sauce, this pizza tastes just like what you’d find in the heart of Chicago.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or bell peppers to make this pizza your own.
• Perfect for Sharing: The deep dish style makes this pizza filling and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
• Hearty and Satisfying: The layers of cheese, savory sausage, and hearty tomato sauce make each bite a flavorful experience.

Tips for Perfect Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza:

• Crust Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a small amount of warm water.
• Use a Cast Iron Pan: For extra crispy edges, use a cast iron skillet instead of a regular pizza pan.
• Let the Sauce Simmer: Let the sauce cook down to a thick consistency so it doesn’t make the crust soggy.

Conclusion

Making homemade Chicago-style deep dish pizza from scratch is easier than it sounds, and the end result is a flavorful, indulgent pie that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night or simply craving something hearty, this recipe is sure to please everyone. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the delicious taste of Chicago in the comfort of your home.

Serving and Storage Tips for Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

Serving Tips

1. Let It Cool Slightly: After baking, allow the pizza to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This will help the cheese set and make it easier to cut into clean slices.
2. Serve with a Side Salad: To balance out the richness of the deep dish pizza, serve it with a light, fresh salad like a Caesar salad or a simple arugula and cherry tomato salad.
3. Use a Pizza Cutter or Serrated Knife: A pizza cutter is the best tool for slicing deep dish pizza, but a serrated knife works just as well if you don’t have one. Gently cut through the crust to avoid losing the cheesy layers.
4. Add Fresh Herbs: For extra flavor, top your pizza with fresh basil or oregano before serving. This adds a pop of color and a fresh, aromatic flavor.
5. Pair with a Drink: Chicago-style deep dish pizza pairs wonderfully with a cold beer, a glass of red wine like Chianti, or even a refreshing iced tea.

Storage Tips

1. Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftover pizza, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Reheat with Care: To reheat leftover deep dish pizza, place slices on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is crispy. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat with a lid to prevent the cheese from drying out.
3. Freezing for Later: If you want to freeze your deep dish pizza, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
4. Reheating Tips for Frozen Pizza: To get the best results when reheating frozen pizza, you can place the slices on a baking sheet in a preheated oven. Cover them with aluminum foil to keep them from drying out and uncover them for the last 5 minutes to allow the crust to crisp up.

By following these simple serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your homemade Chicago-style deep dish pizza stays fresh, delicious, and easy to enjoy for days to come!

1. Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough if you’re short on time. However, homemade dough yields a better texture and flavor. If using store-bought, make sure to follow the instructions on the packaging and adjust the rising time if needed.

2. Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months; let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

3. Can I customize the toppings on my Chicago-style deep dish pizza?

Definitely! Chicago-style deep dish pizza is very versatile. You can add your favorite toppings such as pepperoni, mushrooms, green peppers, olives, or even different types of cheese. Just keep in mind that layering the ingredients properly is key to maintaining the structure of the pizza.

4. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, make sure to cook the tomato sauce until it thickens and any excess moisture evaporates. You can also layer a thin amount of cheese directly on the dough before adding the sauce to act as a barrier. Additionally, using a pizza pan or cast iron skillet that helps distribute heat evenly can also give you a crispier crust.

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