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HOMEMADE CHICAGO STYLE DEEP DISH PIZZA

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Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

Indulge in the iconic flavors of Chicago with this homemade deep dish pizza recipe. With its thick, buttery crust, gooey cheese, savory sausage, and rich tomato sauce, this pizza brings the Windy City’s famous pie to your kitchen. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this deep dish pizza will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon oil
  • 1 pound pizza dough
  • 1 ½ cups mozzarella, shredded
  • ⅓ pound Italian sausage
  • ⅓ cup pepperoni, diced
  • ⅔ cup pizza sauce
  • ½ cup Parmesan

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

  1. Lightly oil the bottom (but not the sides) of a 9-inch cake pan.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

  1. Press the pizza dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pan, creating a thick edge to hold all the delicious toppings.

Step 4: Layer the Cheese

  1. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the bottom of the dough. This layer of cheese creates a barrier to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

Step 5: Add the Sausage

  1. Place the raw Italian sausage evenly on top of the cheese. The sausage will cook as the pizza bakes, releasing its flavors into the crust and cheese.

Step 6: Add the Pepperoni

  1. Scatter the diced pepperoni over the sausage. The pepperoni adds a delightful spicy kick and extra layer of flavor.

Step 7: Spread the Sauce

  1. Evenly spread the pizza sauce over the pepperoni and sausage layer. Be generous, as the sauce is a key component of the Chicago-style deep dish.

Step 8: Top with More Cheese

  1. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella and the ½ cup of Parmesan cheese over the pizza sauce. This final layer of cheese will melt beautifully and create a golden, bubbly top.

Step 9: Bake the Pizza

  1. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is deeply golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

  1. Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy the gooey, cheesy, and savory goodness of your homemade Chicago-style deep dish pizza!

Tips for Perfect Deep Dish Pizza

  • Dough: Use a high-quality pizza dough or make your own for the best results. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before shaping for easier handling.
  • Cheese: Shred your own mozzarella cheese for a creamier melt. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
  • Sausage: If you prefer, you can pre-cook the sausage before adding it to the pizza. This can help reduce excess grease and ensure even cooking.
  • Sauce: Use a thick and hearty pizza sauce for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using a runny sauce, as it can make the crust soggy.
  • Pan: A heavy-duty cake pan or cast iron skillet works best for deep dish pizza. Ensure it’s well-oiled to prevent sticking and achieve a crispy crust.
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FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as mild Italian sausage, spicy sausage, or even turkey sausage. Adjust the seasoning to match the sausage flavor.

What if I don’t have a 9-inch cake pan?

You can use a cast iron skillet or any other similar-sized deep dish pan. Just ensure it has a heavy bottom to distribute heat evenly.

Can I make the dough from scratch?

Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough can enhance the flavor and texture of your deep dish pizza. There are many recipes available online for making your own pizza dough.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the crispy crust.

Can I freeze the pizza?

Yes, you can freeze the baked pizza. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to customize your deep dish pizza with your favorite toppings. Bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, olives, and spinach are all great additions.

How can I make a vegetarian version?

To make a vegetarian deep dish pizza, simply omit the sausage and pepperoni. Load up on your favorite vegetables and consider adding a meat substitute like veggie sausage or tofu.

Is there a way to make the crust extra crispy?

For an extra crispy crust, pre-bake the dough for about 5 minutes before adding the toppings. This helps to firm up the base and prevent sogginess.

Conclusion

Creating a homemade Chicago-style deep dish pizza is easier than you might think, and the results are incredibly rewarding. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this pizza is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply treating yourself. Enjoy the taste of Chicago in your own kitchen with this delicious recipe!

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