Deep Dish Pizza: The Ultimate Guide to Chicago’s Iconic Pie

Deep Dish Pizza: just the name conjures up images of gooey cheese, chunky tomato sauce, and a buttery, crispy crust that’s practically a meal in itself! Forget everything you think you know about pizza because this isn’t your average slice. We’re diving headfirst into a culinary experience that’s as much about the journey as it is about the destination – and trust me, the destination is delicious.

Originating in the Windy City, Chicago, in the early 20th century, Deep Dish Pizza was a revolutionary response to the thinner, Neapolitan-style pizzas that were gaining popularity. Legend has it that Ike Sewell, the founder of Pizzeria Uno, wanted to create a pizza that was more substantial, more filling, and frankly, more of a meal. And boy, did he succeed!

What makes this pizza so irresistible? It’s the combination of textures and flavors. The tall, buttery crust acts as a vessel for a generous helping of cheese, followed by a chunky, flavorful tomato sauce that’s often seasoned with herbs and spices. Unlike traditional pizzas, the toppings are layered underneath the sauce, allowing the cheese to melt into a glorious, gooey blanket. People adore deep dish for its hearty nature, its rich flavors, and the sheer satisfaction of sinking your teeth into a slice that’s bursting with deliciousness. It’s the perfect comfort food, ideal for sharing with friends and family, and guaranteed to leave you feeling happy and full. So, let’s get baking!

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (105-115°F)
• 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for greasing
• 1/4 cup yellow cornmeal
• For the Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• For the Filling:
• 1 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup sliced green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup sliced onion
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preparing the Crust:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This step is crucial to ensure your yeast is alive and active, which will give your crust a beautiful rise. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old, and you’ll need to start over with fresh yeast.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is important for the flavor and texture of the crust.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the flour mixture and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t worry if it looks a little rough at this point; we’ll smooth it out in the next step.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This first rise is essential for developing the flavor and texture of the crust. I usually put mine in a slightly warm oven (turned off, of course!).

Making the Sauce:

1. Sauté the Garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, pepper, and sugar to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. I sometimes add a pinch more sugar if the tomatoes are particularly acidic.

Assembling the Pizza:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Generously grease a 9-inch deep dish pizza pan or a 9-inch springform pan with olive oil. Sprinkle the bottom of the pan with cornmeal. The cornmeal will help prevent the crust from sticking and add a nice texture.
2. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release the air. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 14-inch circle. The dough needs to be large enough to cover the bottom and sides of the pan.
3. Place Dough in Pan: Carefully transfer the dough to the prepared pan. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed. The sides should come up at least 2 inches.
4. Layer the Ingredients: This is where the magic happens! Start by layering half of the mozzarella cheese on the bottom of the crust. This creates a barrier between the crust and the sauce, preventing the crust from becoming soggy.
5. Add Toppings: Next, add the cooked sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, green bell pepper, and onion. Distribute the toppings evenly over the cheese.
6. Pour on the Sauce: Pour the tomato sauce over the toppings, spreading it evenly. Don’t be shy with the sauce; deep dish pizza is known for its generous sauce-to-topping ratio.
7. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the sauce. This creates a beautiful, cheesy topping that will melt and bubble in the oven.

Baking the Pizza:

1. Bake the Pizza: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it. If the crust is browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil.
2. Let it Rest: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to cut.
3. Slice and Serve: Carefully slice the pizza into wedges and serve hot. Enjoy! I like to serve mine with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes and a side of extra Parmesan cheese.

Tips and Variations:

• Crust Thickness: If you prefer a thinner crust, you can use a larger pan or roll the dough out thinner.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to use different types of cheese, such as provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and pepperoni and add more vegetables, such as spinach, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some on top of the pizza before baking for a spicy kick.
• Make Ahead: You can make the dough and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the pizza. The dough can be stored for up to 2 days, and the sauce can be stored for up to 3 days.
• Freezing Instructions: You can freeze the baked pizza for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

Enjoy your homemade Deep Dish Pizza!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Deep Dish Pizza recipe isn’t just another pizza; it’s an experience. From the buttery, almost flaky crust that climbs the sides of the pan to the layers of cheese, toppings, and that tangy, chunky tomato sauce, every bite is a symphony of flavors and textures. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for any pizza lover, whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out. The process is surprisingly straightforward, and the reward is a pizza that rivals anything you’d find in a Chicago pizzeria. Why is it a must-try? Because it’s more than just pizza; it’s a celebration of comfort food. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in, a game-day gathering, or any occasion that calls for something truly special. The deep dish format allows for an incredible amount of cheese and toppings, creating a pizza that’s both satisfying and incredibly flavorful. Plus, the unique crust, with its buttery richness and slightly crispy edges, sets it apart from any other pizza you’ve ever tried. But the best part? You can totally customize it to your liking! While I’ve shared my favorite combination of toppings, feel free to get creative. Love pepperoni? Load it up! Prefer a vegetarian option? Add mushrooms, peppers, onions, and spinach for a vibrant and delicious pizza. Want to kick up the heat? Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce. The possibilities are endless! Here are a few serving suggestions and variations to get you started: * Classic Combo: Stick with the traditional sausage, pepperoni, and mushroom combination for a truly authentic Chicago-style experience. * Vegetarian Delight: Use a medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and onions for a colorful and flavorful vegetarian pizza. * Spicy Fiesta: Add chorizo, jalapeños, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese for a spicy and flavorful twist. * White Pizza: Skip the tomato sauce altogether and use a creamy garlic sauce as the base, topped with ricotta cheese, spinach, and artichoke hearts. * Serving Suggestion: Serve your deep dish pizza with a simple side salad to balance out the richness of the pizza. A crisp Caesar salad or a light vinaigrette salad would be perfect. Don’t be intimidated by the “deep dish” aspect. This recipe is designed to be approachable and easy to follow. I’ve included detailed instructions and helpful tips to guide you through every step of the process. And remember, even if your first attempt isn’t perfect, it will still be delicious! Pizza is forgiving, and the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a Deep Dish Pizza masterpiece! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your variations, your successes, and any tips you have for other readers. Let’s build a community of deep dish pizza lovers! Happy baking! Print