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Classic Chicago Deep Dish Pizza Recipe

Classic Chicago Deep Dish Pizza Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 13 reviews

Classic Chicago Deep Dish Pizza is a hearty, satisfying pizza characterized by its thick, buttery crust, generous layers of mozzarella cheese, savory Italian sausage, sautéed vegetables, and a rich, seasoned tomato sauce. This beloved Windy City specialty is perfect for a comforting family dinner or a special gathering, delivering bold flavors and a unique pizza experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Filling Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, crumbled
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated. Then add the flour, cornmeal, salt, melted butter, and olive oil. Mix everything until a dough forms, then knead it on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  2. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the crumbled Italian sausage until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside. In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and sauté the diced onions, green bell pepper, and minced garlic until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
  3. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the crushed tomatoes followed by dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and a teaspoon of sugar to balance acidity. Simmer the sauce gently for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
  4. Assemble the Pizza: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the risen dough and press it into a well-greased deep-dish pizza pan, making sure to press the dough up the sides to create a thick crust. Begin layering mozzarella cheese at the bottom of the crust—this layer acts as a barrier to keep the crust from becoming soggy. Next, evenly distribute the cooked sausage and sautéed vegetables over the cheese. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Pour the simmered tomato sauce over all and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  5. Bake and Serve: Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned on top. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the pizza set for clean slices. Serve warm and enjoy your authentic Chicago-style deep dish pizza.

Notes

  • For best results, use room temperature ingredients when making the dough to ensure optimal yeast activation.
  • You can substitute Italian sausage with other proteins or keep it vegetarian by adding mushrooms or extra vegetables.
  • The layering order—cheese first, then toppings, then sauce—is crucial for preventing a soggy crust in deep dish pizzas.
  • Use a deep-dish pizza pan or a cast iron skillet to get the authentic thick crust shape.
  • Allow the dough enough time to rise for a fluffy, tender crust.
  • If you prefer a spicier tomato sauce, add red pepper flakes during simmering.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicago deep dish pizza, deep dish pizza recipe, Chicago-style pizza, homemade pizza, Italian sausage pizza, thick crust pizza

Find it online: https://cheflenacooks.com/classic-chicago-deep-dish-pizza-recipe/