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A slice of deep dish pizza being lifted from the pan, showing melted mozzarella stretching.

Authentic Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

Chicago-style deep dish pizza is a rich, buttery, and indulgent dish featuring a thick crust, layers of cheese, hearty toppings, and a bold tomato sauce. Unlike traditional pizzas, the ingredients are layered in reverse to maintain the perfect texture.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Dough Rising Time 1 minute
Total Time 2 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Chicago-Style
Servings 8 slices
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Deep-Dish Pizza Pan
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Rolling Pin
  • Skillet

Ingredients
  

Deep Dish Pizza Dough

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal adds texture
  • 1/2 cup melted butter or olive oil
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt

Classic Deep Dish Pizza Sauce

  • 1 can San Marzano tomatoes (28 oz, crushed)
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • salt and black pepper to taste

Pizza Assembly

  • 3 cups low-moisture mozzarella cheese sliced or shredded
  • 1 cup cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions
 

  • Activate the yeast: Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  • Mix flour, cornmeal, and salt in a large bowl. Slowly add the yeast mixture and melted butter, stirring until a dough forms.
  • Knead for 5-7 minutes on a floured surface. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours.
  • Prepare the sauce: Heat olive oil in a saucepan, add garlic, and sauté for 30 seconds. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 20-30 minutes.
  • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a deep-dish pizza pan.
  • Roll out the dough to a ¼-inch thick circle. Press into the greased pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides.
  • Layer the mozzarella cheese directly onto the dough.
  • Spread the cooked Italian sausage (or preferred toppings) evenly over the cheese.
  • Spoon the tomato sauce over the toppings and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
  • Bake for 35-45 minutes until the crust is golden and the sauce is bubbling.
  • Let cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For a flakier crust, spread softened butter over the rolled dough before pressing it into the pan.
Keyword Authentic, Buttery Crust, Cheesy, Deep Dish Pizza