This Homemade Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza is packed with layers of mozzarella, sausage, and pepperoni, nestled in a buttery crust. A true classic, it’s a perfect choice for pizza night!
INGREDIENTS
- Oil (1 teaspoon): Used to lightly grease the pan, preventing the crust from sticking and adding a slight crispiness to the base.
- Pizza Dough (1 pound): Forms the foundation for the deep dish, pressing up the sides for that iconic thick crust.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 1/2 cups, shredded): Provides a gooey, cheesy layer within the pizza for a rich texture and flavor.
- Italian Sausage (1/3 pound, raw): Adds a savory, slightly spiced layer typical of Chicago-style pizza.
- Pepperoni (1/3 cup, diced): Adds an extra burst of flavor and a touch of smokiness to the filling.
- Pizza Sauce (2/3 cup): The sauce that ties it all together, layered on top of the cheese and meats.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Finishes the pizza with a savory, nutty flavor on top, complementing the mozzarella.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the pizza.
- Step 2: Prepare the Pan
- Lightly oil the bottom (but not the sides) of a 9-inch cake pan to prevent sticking and create a crisp base.
- Step 3: Shape the Dough
- Press the pizza dough into the bottom of the pan, working it up the sides to form the deep-dish crust.
- Step 4: Add the First Layer of Cheese
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the bottom of the dough, creating a base layer for the toppings.
- Step 5: Add the Sausage and Pepperoni
- Place the raw Italian sausage on top of the cheese layer, followed by the diced pepperoni for a hearty filling.
- Step 6: Add the Sauce
- Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the sausage and pepperoni layer to keep the flavors balanced.
- Step 7: Top with Remaining Cheese
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, covering the sauce for a rich, cheesy finish.
- Step 8: Bake
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is a deep golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing to help the layers set and prevent the cheese from sliding.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Helpful Notes
- For an extra buttery crust, brush the edges with melted butter just before baking.
- Layering cheese at the bottom prevents the crust from getting soggy from the sauce.
- Feel free to add your favorite toppings, but avoid overloading the pizza to maintain the right texture.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Rick Bayless recommends using high-quality mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
- Chef Nancy Silverton suggests using a pizza stone under the pan to help the crust bake evenly.
- Food expert Jeff Mauro advises slicing the pizza with a serrated knife to maintain the integrity of the layers.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- Authentic taste of Chicago-style pizza in the comfort of your home.
- Rich, cheesy layers with a buttery crust that’s both filling and satisfying.
- Easy-to-make and perfect for family pizza nights or entertaining guests.
VARIATIONS
- Add green bell peppers and onions for a veggie-loaded deep dish.
- Swap pepperoni and sausage with mushrooms and spinach for a vegetarian option.
- Try adding a layer of sliced fresh tomatoes on top of the sauce for a fresher flavor.
- Substitute part of the mozzarella with provolone for a different cheesy flavor profile.