Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza Recipe

Chicago-style deep dish pizza is a legendary dish known for its thick, buttery crust, layers of gooey cheese, hearty toppings, and rich tomato sauce. Unlike traditional pizzas, this version features a deep, flaky crust that holds up to generous amounts of filling, making each slice a satisfying, indulgent experience. With origins dating back to the 1940s in Chicago, this dish continues to be a favorite among pizza lovers. The unique upside-down layering—cheese first, then toppings, followed by sauce—ensures a perfect balance of flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 ¼ cups (400g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (120ml) warm water
• ¾ cup (170g) cornmeal (adds signature texture)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling:

• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 pound Italian sausage or pepperoni (or vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups crushed tomatoes (San Marzano preferred)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, and salt. Stir in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and olive oil.
3. Knead the dough for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Cooking the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add garlic, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
4. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assembling the Pizza

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Grease a 9-inch deep-dish pizza pan with butter.
3. Roll out the dough and press it into the pan, making sure it covers the sides.
4. Layer the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the bottom.
5. Add cooked Italian sausage or preferred toppings.
6. Pour the thick tomato sauce over the top, spreading evenly.
7. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Step 4: Baking the Pizza

1. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
2. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Serving and Enjoying

1. Slice and serve hot, ideally with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
2. Enjoy the layered goodness of cheese, toppings, and a buttery crust!

Why You’ll Love This Deep Dish Pizza

• Thick, crispy crust that perfectly holds up to fillings.
• Rich layers of cheese, sausage, and tomato sauce for a hearty bite.
• Authentic Chicago-style texture—buttery, flaky, and indulgent.

Would you like a variation with extra toppings or a stuffed crust version? Let me know how you’d love to customize it!