Description

Dive into the rich and savory layers of Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, a dish that redefines pizza with its buttery crust, gooey mozzarella, and zesty tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this recipe brings the Windy City’s iconic pizza to your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 1/4 cups warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pizza:

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 pound Italian sausage, cooked
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Any additional toppings: sliced mushrooms, green peppers, or onions

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Add flour, cornmeal, melted butter, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a deep-dish pizza pan or 9-inch cake pan.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

Roll out the dough into a circle slightly larger than your pan. Press into the pan, covering the bottom and sides.
Layer mozzarella cheese directly on the crust.
Add cooked Italian sausage and other desired toppings.
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the toppings.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake for 25–30 minutes until the crust is golden and the sauce bubbles.
Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Let the pizza rest before slicing to keep the layers intact.
Use fresh mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes dough rising time)
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American