Chicago-style pizza, known for its thick, buttery crust, layers of cheese, and chunky tomato sauce, is a rich and hearty treat. This iconic deep-dish pizza is perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. Here’s how to make it at home.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
All-purpose flour: 2 ½ cups
Cornmeal: ½ cup
Sugar: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Active dry yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet)
Warm water: ¾ cup (110°F or 45°C)
Butter: 3 tablespoons, melted
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
For the Sauce:
Crushed tomatoes: 1 can (28 ounces)
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
Salt: ½ teaspoon
Sugar: ½ teaspoon (optional, to balance acidity)
For the Toppings:
Mozzarella cheese: 2-3 cups, shredded or sliced
Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup, grated
Toppings of your choice: Sausage, pepperoni, vegetables, etc.
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, mix the flour, cornmeal, and salt. Add the melted butter, olive oil, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and sugar (if using). Simmer the sauce for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9-inch or 10-inch deep-dish pizza pan with butter or olive oil.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Punch down the dough and roll it out into a large circle, about 1 inch larger than your pan. Press the dough into the pan, covering the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
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Step 5: Layer the Pizza
Start with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese on the bottom to protect the crust from getting soggy. Add your desired toppings (such as sausage or veggies) over the cheese. Pour the prepared tomato sauce evenly over the toppings. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Step 6: Bake the Pizza
Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the pizza cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes to allow the layers to set. Carefully remove it from the pan, slice, and serve.
Tips for Perfect Chicago-Style Pizza
Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: If you don’t have a deep-dish pizza pan, a cast-iron skillet works perfectly for this recipe.
Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: The thick layer of cheese is essential to the classic Chicago-style experience.
Customize Your Toppings: Experiment with combinations like spinach and mushrooms or pepperoni and green peppers.
Make the Dough Ahead: The dough can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before using.
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Common Questions
What Makes Chicago-Style Pizza Different?
Chicago pizza features a deep, buttery crust and is layered "upside down" with cheese on the bottom, followed by toppings and chunky tomato sauce on top.
Can I Use Store-Bought Dough?
Yes, but for an authentic taste and texture, homemade dough is recommended.
How Do I Reheat Chicago-Style Pizza?
Reheat slices in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This keeps the crust crispy and the cheese melty.
Chicago-style pizza is a showstopper that combines bold flavors and hearty layers in every bite. With its buttery crust, gooey cheese, and rich sauce, this deep-dish classic is a must-try for any pizza lover. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy a slice of Chicago at home!
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