Chicago-style deep dish pizza is a beloved dish that has earned a permanent place in the hearts of pizza lovers across the world. With its buttery, flaky crust, rich tomato sauce, and generous layers of cheese, this pizza is an indulgent treat. Unlike traditional thin-crust pizzas, Chicago deep dish pizza is thick, hearty, and full of flavor. In this article, we will guide you through how to make your own homemade Chicago-style deep dish pizza, from the crust to the fillings, and even answer some frequently asked questions about this iconic dish.
Ingredients
To make a Chicago-style deep dish pizza, you will need to gather the following ingredients:
For the crust:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the filling:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (bulk, not in casing)
- 1 lb mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (optional)
Directions and Preparation Method
Preparing the Dough
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently, and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active and will help the dough rise.
- Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, and salt. Add the melted butter, olive oil, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix everything together until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Preparing the Sauce
- Cook the aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the sauce thickens, remove it from the heat and stir in the fresh chopped parsley.
Preparing the Filling
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until browned and fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the cheese: Grate the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. You can use a mix of part-skim and whole-milk mozzarella for the best melt and texture.
Assembling the Pizza
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the pan: Generously grease a 9-inch round deep-dish pizza pan (or a similar-sized oven-safe dish) with butter or oil.
- Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough out into a circle large enough to fit your pan, leaving some extra dough to cover the sides of the pan.
- Layer the ingredients: Start by layering the shredded mozzarella cheese on the bottom of the pan. This acts as a barrier to prevent the sauce from soaking into the crust. Add the cooked sausage on top of the cheese. Then, spoon the prepared tomato sauce over the sausage, spreading it evenly.
- Top with Parmesan and optional spices: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce. If desired, add some red pepper flakes for a bit of spice and fresh basil leaves for added flavor.
- Seal the pizza: Fold the edges of the dough over the toppings, crimping them to seal the pizza. If there’s any excess dough, you can trim it off. Brush the top of the crust with a little melted butter to give it a golden, crispy finish.
- Bake the pizza: Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling. If the top begins to brown too quickly, you can cover the pizza with aluminum foil and continue baking until done.
Cooling and Serving
Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese and sauce to set, making it easier to cut clean slices. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Chicago-style deep dish pizza!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?
Yes, while mozzarella is the traditional choice for Chicago-style deep dish pizza, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even fontina for different flavor profiles. However, mozzarella gives the pizza its signature melt and texture, so it’s highly recommended for the best results.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough in advance and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before you roll it out. This method will also help develop deeper flavors in the dough.
3. Can I freeze Chicago-style deep dish pizza?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled pizza before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and bake it at 425°F (220°C) for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until it’s cooked through.
4. How do I store leftover pizza?
Leftover deep dish pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes for the best results.
5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the tomato sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the sauce for longer storage. Simply reheat it before using it to assemble your pizza.
Conclusion
Making homemade Chicago-style deep dish pizza is a rewarding experience, and the result is a hearty, flavorful meal that is perfect for family gatherings, parties, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. With its buttery crust, savory filling, and rich tomato sauce, it’s a pizza that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
By following the step-by-step directions, you can recreate the authentic taste of Chicago right in your own kitchen. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your ingredients, and most importantly, have fun with the process. With a little patience and some quality ingredients, you’ll be able to enjoy a homemade deep dish pizza that’s as delicious as it is satisfying!