Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza: 10-Ingredient Legendary Savory Favorite

Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza is a bold, hearty twist on classic pizza, known for its tall crust, generous layers of cheese, and rich tomato topping. Unlike traditional thin crust pizza, this version is baked in a deep pan, creating a thick, buttery base that holds layers of savory fillings.

Each slice reveals distinct layers: a crisp golden crust, a generous blanket of mozzarella, hearty toppings, and a bright tomato sauce spooned on top. The baking method locks in flavor and gives the crust a tender yet slightly crisp texture along the edges.

Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza is perfect for family dinners, weekend cooking projects, or special gatherings. It’s comforting, filling, and packed with layered flavor that makes every bite satisfying.

Ingredients Overview

The crust is the foundation of Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza. Unlike traditional pizza dough, this dough contains olive oil and a small amount of cornmeal, which gives it a slightly crumbly, biscuit-like texture. All-purpose flour provides structure, while yeast creates a gentle rise.

Warm water activates the yeast, and a pinch of sugar helps it bloom. Salt enhances flavor and strengthens the dough.

Low-moisture mozzarella cheese is essential for the thick cheese layer. It melts smoothly without releasing too much liquid, keeping the pizza structured.

Italian sausage is a classic topping, offering savory richness and seasoning. It should be cooked and crumbled before layering.

The tomato layer is made from crushed tomatoes seasoned with garlic, oregano, salt, and a touch of olive oil. Unlike traditional pizza, the sauce goes on top of the cheese and toppings, protecting them from direct heat.

Freshly grated Parmesan adds a savory finish before baking.

Together, these ingredients create Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza with signature structure and bold flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by preparing the dough. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup warm water with 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast and 1 teaspoon sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

In a large bowl, mix 2½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup yellow cornmeal, and 1 teaspoon salt.

Add the yeast mixture and ¼ cup olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.

While the dough rises, cook 1 pound Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and set aside.

Prepare the sauce by combining 1½ cups crushed tomatoes, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Stir and set aside.

Preheat your oven to 425°F.

Generously grease a 9-inch deep dish pan or cast iron skillet with olive oil or butter.

Roll out the risen dough into a large circle and press it into the pan, pushing it up the sides to form a tall crust.

Layer 3 cups shredded mozzarella evenly over the bottom of the crust.

Add the cooked sausage evenly over the cheese.

Spoon the tomato sauce over the sausage, spreading gently.

Sprinkle ¼ cup grated Parmesan over the top.

Bake for 30–35 minutes until the crust is golden and the sauce is bubbling.

Allow the pizza to rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing to help the layers set.

Serve warm.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

For extra buttery flavor, replace part of the olive oil in the dough with melted butter.

Vegetable toppings such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach can be layered between the cheese and sauce.

If the crust browns too quickly, loosely cover the edges with foil during baking.

For a slightly crispier bottom, preheat the baking pan in the oven before adding the dough.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days and reheated in the oven for best texture.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza is perfect for weekend dinners and casual gatherings.

Serve with a crisp green salad to balance the richness.

It pairs well with sparkling water, lemonade, or iced tea.

Because it’s filling and substantial, smaller slices are often satisfying.

This pizza is ideal for sharing and makes a striking centerpiece at the table.

Nutritional & Health Notes

This dish provides protein from cheese and sausage.

Using lean sausage reduces fat content slightly.

Tomatoes offer antioxidants and natural acidity that balance the richness.

Portion control is important due to the hearty crust and cheese layers.

Pairing with fresh vegetables helps create a more balanced meal.

FAQs

1. What makes Chicago-style deep dish different?

It has a thick crust baked in a deep pan with cheese layered first and sauce on top.

2. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes. Refrigerate the dough after rising and bring to room temperature before shaping.

3. Why does the sauce go on top?

Placing the sauce on top prevents the cheese from overbrowning during the longer baking time.

4. Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, though homemade dough provides the most authentic texture.

5. How do I prevent a soggy crust?

Use low-moisture mozzarella and avoid overly watery toppings.

6. Can I freeze leftover slices?

Yes. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months.

7. What pan works best?

A deep 9-inch cake pan or cast iron skillet provides ideal depth and even heat.

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