Chicago-style deep dish pizza is an iconic dish that has delighted pizza lovers for decades. Known for its thick, buttery crust and layers of gooey cheese, savory sausage, and tangy tomato sauce, this pizza is a must-try for anyone who appreciates hearty, comforting food. If you’ve ever wondered how to make this classic at home, you’re in luck! Here’s a detailed recipe to help you create your very own Chicago-style deep dish pizza.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 pound mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
• 1 pound Italian sausage, crumbled and cooked
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or any other preferred toppings

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, and salt. Add the melted butter and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients.
   • Mix until a dough forms, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • While the dough is rising, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
   • Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
   • Cook the sausage in a separate pan over medium heat until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a large circle, about 12-14 inches in diameter.
   • Grease a 12-inch deep dish pizza pan or cast-iron skillet with olive oil. Carefully transfer the dough to the pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
   • Layer the mozzarella cheese slices evenly on the bottom of the crust. Add the cooked sausage and any other desired toppings on top of the cheese.
   • Pour the tomato sauce over the toppings, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the sauce.
4. 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.
   • Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Perfect Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza:

• Dough Thickness: Ensure the dough is thick enough to hold the generous fillings but not too thick to become doughy. Rolling it out to about 1/4 inch thick is ideal.
• Cheese Layer: Placing the cheese directly on the crust creates a barrier that prevents the crust from becoming soggy.
• Resting Time: Allowing the pizza to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.
• Cast-Iron Skillet: Using a cast-iron skillet can give the pizza a beautifully crispy crust.

Final Thoughts

Making Chicago-style deep dish pizza at home may take some time and effort, but the result is well worth it. This rich, hearty pizza is perfect for a cozy dinner with family and friends. Enjoy the process of creating this iconic dish, and savor every delicious bite