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Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

Indulgent Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza That Wows Every Bite

A comforting Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza, featuring a thick crust, gooey cheese, and customizable toppings that make it a must-try for pizza lovers.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour Substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor and strengthens gluten in the dough.
  • 1 tablespoon sugar Adds sweetness and promotes browning.
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast Ensure it's fresh for best results.
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water About 110°F to activate the yeast.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For richness; melted butter can be used for flavor.
For the Toppings
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Opt for part-skim for less fat.
  • 1 pound Italian sausage Cooked and crumbled; can substitute with pepperoni or plant-based sausage.
  • 1 cup marinara sauce Authentic flavor—don’t skip!
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese Can be omitted or replaced with Pecorino Romano.
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Classic Italian flavor enhancer.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh garlic can be used for a more aromatic boost.
For Vegetables
  • 1 cup diced bell pepper Add favorite veggies for variety.
  • 1 cup diced onion Customize with spinach or artichokes.
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • 12-inch deep dish pan or cast-iron skillet
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar, whisking together. Create a well in the center.
  2. Dissolve 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast in 1 ¼ cups of warm water (about 110°F) and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  3. Pour the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the well of dry ingredients. Stir until dough starts to form, then knead for 3-4 minutes.
  4. Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
  6. Preheat oven to 425°F and grease a 12-inch deep dish pan with olive oil.
  7. Punch down the risen dough, transfer it to a floured surface, and roll it into a 14-inch diameter circle. Transfer into prepared pan.
  8. Layer the fillings: add mozzarella cheese, crumbled Italian sausage, diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and pour marinara sauce on top.
  9. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese, oregano, and garlic powder. Bake for 25-30 minutes until crust is golden and cheese bubbles.
  10. Let the pizza cool for 10 minutes before slicing into wedges and serving warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for best flavor, ensure dough doubles in size, and don't skip greasing the pan.

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