The Ultimate Deep Dish Pizza Recipe: A Slice of Chicago in Your Kitchen
If you’ve ever craved the rich, buttery crust, gooey layers of cheese, and robust tomato sauce of authentic Chicago-style deep dish pizza, you’re in for a treat. This recipe brings the Windy City’s iconic dish to your home, combining comfort, indulgence, and culinary craftsmanship in one unforgettable slice. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this deep-dish pizza is guaranteed to become your go-to recipe for a show-stopping meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Authenticity: Inspired by the legendary deep-dish pizzas of Chicago.
Flavor Explosion: A rich, buttery crust paired with tangy, aromatic tomato sauce and melty cheese.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to make it your own!
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Ingredients
For the Dough
1. 3¼ cups all-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the crust with the right elasticity.
2. ½ cup yellow cornmeal: Adds signature crunch and a subtle, nutty flavor.
3. 1½ teaspoons salt: Enhances the dough’s flavor.
4. 2 teaspoons sugar: Balances the flavors and activates the yeast.
5. 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast: Ensures a perfectly risen crust.
6. 1¼ cups room-temperature water: Provides proper hydration for a smooth, pliable dough.
7. 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Infuses richness and moisture into the dough.
8. 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Creates flaky layers during lamination.
9. 1 teaspoon + 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Prevents sticking and adds a golden crust.
For the Sauce
1. 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
2. ¼ cup grated onion: Provides sweetness and a savory base.
3. ¼ teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses the sauce with classic Italian flavors.
4. ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances the sauce.
5. 2 garlic cloves, minced: Delivers a fragrant, garlicky punch.
6. 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The foundation of the sauce, offering a rich and robust flavor.
7. ¼ teaspoon sugar: Cuts through the tomatoes’ acidity.
8. 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh basil: Brings freshness and aromatic flair.
9. 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds shine and helps meld the flavors.
10. Freshly ground black pepper: To taste, for added depth.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add room-temperature water and melted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Coat a bowl with 1 teaspoon olive oil. Place the dough inside, cover, and let it rise for 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.
2. Laminating the Dough
1. Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface.
2. Fold the dough into thirds like a letter, then fold again into thirds to create a square.
3. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. Make the Sauce
1. Heat unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the grated onion until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in oregano, salt, and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes and sugar, then simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and mix in basil, olive oil, and a dash of black pepper.
4. Assemble the Pizza
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the dough into a circle 1 inch larger than your deep-dish pan. Gently press it into the pan, ensuring it comes up the sides.
3. Layer slices of mozzarella cheese directly onto the dough.
4. Add any desired toppings (pepperoni, sausage, vegetables).
5. Spread the prepared tomato sauce over the top, covering evenly.
6. Drizzle with olive oil for a golden finish.
5. Bake
1. Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
2. Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Deep Dish Pizza
Rest Your Dough: Allowing time for the dough to rise enhances texture and flavor.
Laminate for Layers: Butter-laminated dough creates an irresistibly flaky crust.
Choose High-Quality Tomatoes: Opt for San Marzano tomatoes for the best sauce flavor.
Prevent Soggy Crust: Always layer cheese before sauce to act as a moisture barrier.
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Serving Suggestions
Complete your Chicago-style pizza night with:
Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
Caesar Salad: A crisp, tangy counterpoint to the rich pizza.
Red Wine or Soda: Pair with a drink of your choice for a satisfying meal.
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Why This Recipe Stands Out
This deep-dish pizza is the epitome of comfort food, offering a perfectly buttery crust, gooey layers of cheese, and a vibrant, tangy sauce. With easy-to-follow steps and helpful pro tips, even beginners can master this iconic dish. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe guarantees a delicious, restaurant-quality pizza experience.
Take a slice of Chicago home tonight and impress your loved ones with this irresistible deep-dish pizza. It’s simple, delicious, and unforgettable—just like it should be.
