Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza is a legendary culinary creation that hails from the vibrant city of Chicago. Known for its thick, buttery crust, generous layers of cheese, and chunky tomato sauce, this iconic pizza style has captured the hearts and palates of pizza enthusiasts worldwide. With its unique combination of textures and flavors, Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza stands as a testament to the city’s rich culinary heritage. Join us as we delve into the history and details of this beloved pizza recipe.

The roots of Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza can be traced back to the mid-20th century when a few pizzerias in Chicago started experimenting with new pizza styles. Uno Pizzeria, established in 1943, is often credited with creating the first deep-dish pizza. The restaurant’s founder, Ike Sewell, aimed to create a pizza that could stand up to the hearty appetites of Chicagoans.

Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza is characterized by its tall, buttery crust that lines a deep, round pizza pan. Unlike its thin-crust counterparts, this style of pizza is more akin to a pie or a casserole. The crust is sturdy, yet flaky, and serves as the foundation for an array of mouthwatering toppings.

Traditionally, the pizza is built in reverse order, with the cheese lining the crust first. Mozzarella cheese is typically used, but some variations may incorporate other types like provolone or cheddar. The cheese acts as a protective layer, preventing the crust from becoming soggy.

Next comes a generous layer of chunky tomato sauce, made from crushed tomatoes or tomato chunks, seasoned with herbs and spices like oregano, basil, and garlic. The sauce is rich and tangy, adding depth of flavor to the pizza.

Various toppings can be added, such as Italian sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, and more. These toppings are often placed on top of the tomato sauce, creating a vibrant and hearty pizza.

The pizza is then baked in a hot oven until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese becomes gooey and bubbly. The resulting pie is thick, indulgent, and bursting with flavors.

Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza has become an integral part of Chicago’s food culture and is a must-try for visitors to the city. It has also gained popularity across the United States and internationally, with pizzerias and restaurants offering their own interpretations of this iconic dish.

PREP: 40 MIN. + RISING

BAKE: 40 MIN.

MAKES: 12 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE CRUST:

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/4 cups warm water

FOR THE FILLING:

• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1 1/2 cups chunky tomato sauce
• Additional toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers)

INSTRUCTIONS

FOR THE CRUST:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter and warm water to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

FOR ASSEMBLING AND BAKING THE PIZZA:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a deep-dish pizza pan. Press the dough evenly across the bottom and up the sides of the pan, creating a thick crust.
3. Layer half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on the bottom of the crust.
4. Add your desired toppings, such as cooked Italian sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or any other toppings of your choice.
5. Pour the chunky tomato sauce over the toppings, ensuring they are well covered.
6. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

NOTES:

• Indulge in the authentic flavors of your homemade Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza, savoring the buttery crust, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey cheese combined with your favorite toppings. This iconic pizza style embodies the spirit of Chicago’s culinary scene and is a testament to the city’s rich food culture. Enjoy this hearty and delicious pizza, and relish in the flavors that have made it a beloved favorite around the world.