Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza Recipe

 

Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza Recipe

Craving a slice of cheesy, hearty, and savory goodness? Look no further than this Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza—a comforting classic with a buttery, golden crust, layers of melty mozzarella, flavorful Italian sausage, and tangy pizza sauce. Perfect for family dinners or weekend indulgence, this iconic recipe delivers the deep, rich flavors that made Chicago-style pizza famous.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Authentic Taste: Thick, buttery crust and layers of cheese, meat, and sauce.

Simple Ingredients: Pantry-friendly and easy to customize.

Comfort Food Classic: Satisfying, hearty, and perfect for sharing.

Easy to Make: Simple steps with pro tips for success.

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Ingredients and Their Roles:

For the Deep Dish Pizza:

1 teaspoon oil: Prevents sticking and gives the crust a crispy bottom.

1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought): The foundation—soft on the inside, crispy and golden on the outside.

1½ cups mozzarella, shredded: The essential gooey layer, offering stretch and creaminess.

⅓ pound Italian sausage (raw): Adds savory, spicy, and meaty flavor, a hallmark of deep-dish pizza.

⅓ cup pepperoni, diced: Provides a smoky, salty contrast to the sausage.

⅔ cup pizza sauce: The tangy, rich, and slightly sweet layer that balances the savory toppings.

½ cup Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish on top.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Lightly oil the bottom of a 9-inch cake pan or cast-iron skillet. Do not oil the sides, as the dough will naturally pull away during baking for a perfect crust texture.

Step 2: Shape the Dough

Roll or press the pizza dough into a large circle, about 12 inches in diameter.

Carefully place the dough into the pan, pressing it firmly into the bottom and up the sides to create a deep crust.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients (Upside-Down Style)

First layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella evenly on the bottom (this prevents the crust from getting soggy).

Second layer: Add small chunks of raw Italian sausage, distributing them evenly. They will cook in the oven, infusing the pizza with flavor.

Third layer: Scatter the diced pepperoni, adding extra smoky, savory bites.

Fourth layer: Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the toppings, ensuring the pizza remains moist and flavorful.

Final layer: Top with the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a crispy, golden finish.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the pizza in the preheated oven.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is deeply golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Check for doneness: The internal temperature should reach 160°F (if using a thermometer) due to the raw sausage.

Allow the pizza to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing—this helps the layers set.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Deep Dish Pizza:

Use high-quality mozzarella: Whole milk, low-moisture mozzarella melts best.

Press the dough firmly into the pan to avoid air bubbles.

Don’t overdo the sauce: Chicago-style is known for its thick layers, but too much sauce can make it soggy.

Let it rest before slicing to keep layers intact.

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Serving Suggestions:

Pair with a side of garlic knots or a Caesar salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy with a glass of red wine, such as a classic Chianti or a bold Zinfandel.

Add a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping your crust.

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Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try:

This Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. With a buttery crust, gooey cheese, and hearty toppings layered perfectly, each bite brings you straight to Chicago’s iconic pizzerias. Simple, delicious, and made from scratch, this recipe is designed to impress your family and guests.

Make it tonight and savor the deep-dish goodness—crispy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible!

Bookmark this recipe for your next pizza night and share it with fellow pizza lovers!