Chicago-style deep dish pizza is a hearty and indulgent dish featuring a thick, buttery crust, layers of cheese, savory sausage, and a rich tomato sauce. Here’s a classic recipe to bring the taste of Chicago to your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
For the Filling:
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- 1 lb mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
- 1 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28 oz) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
a. Activate Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
b. Mix Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, melted butter, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a dough forms.
c. Knead Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
d. First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
a. Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
b. Simmer Sauce:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
a. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a deep dish pizza pan or a 12-inch cast-iron skillet with olive oil.
b. Shape Dough:
- Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared pan. Use your hands to press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
c. Layer Cheese:
- Line the bottom of the crust with the sliced or shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring an even layer.
d. Add Sausage:
- Spread the cooked and crumbled Italian sausage evenly over the cheese.
e. Add Sauce:
- Pour the tomato sauce over the sausage layer, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and, if using, the chopped basil, parsley, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes.
4. Bake the Pizza:
a. Bake:
- Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
b. Cool:
- Let the pizza cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
5. Serve:
a. Garnish:
- Optionally, garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs before serving.
b. Enjoy:
- Slice the pizza into wedges and enjoy the hearty, cheesy goodness!
Tips for Perfect Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza
- Crust: Ensure the dough rises properly for a light and airy crust. The addition of cornmeal gives the crust its signature texture and flavor.
- Cheese: Use high-quality mozzarella cheese for the best flavor and melting properties.
- Sausage: Fully cook the sausage before adding it to the pizza to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked and flavorful.
- Sauce: Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld together. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Baking: If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Resting Time: Allowing the pizza to cool slightly before slicing helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
Enjoy making and devouring this iconic Chicago-style deep dish pizza!
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