Chicago-style deep dish pizza is a legendary creation that combines a thick, buttery crust, generous layers of cheese, and a rich, chunky tomato sauce baked to perfection. Originating in Chicago, this iconic pizza is not just food—it’s an experience. With its flaky crust, melted cheese, and savory toppings, it’s a meal that satisfies every craving. Follow this step-by-step recipe to make your very own authentic Chicago-style deep dish pizza at home.

What Makes Chicago-Style Pizza Unique?

Unlike traditional thin-crust pizzas, Chicago-style deep dish pizza is baked in a tall, round pan resembling a pie dish. Its thick, buttery crust serves as the foundation for layers of cheese, meat, and a vibrant tomato sauce, all baked until golden and bubbly. The toppings are “reversed,” with cheese layered on the crust, followed by meat and vegetables, and finished with tomato sauce on top.

Ingredients for Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

To make the perfect deep dish pizza, you’ll need three key components: the crust, the cheese and toppings, and the tomato sauce.

For the Buttery Crust:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Toppings:

• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage (optional)
• 1 cup pepperoni slices (optional)
• 1 cup sautéed mushrooms
• 1/2 cup sautéed green bell peppers
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Buttery Crust

1. Activate the Yeast:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Make the Dough:
   Add the flour, cornmeal, vegetable oil, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough begins to come together. Knead the dough for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Let the Dough Rise:
   Lightly grease a bowl and place the dough in it. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
2. Simmer the Sauce:
   Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and simmer the sauce for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

1. Prepare the Pan:
   Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 10-12 inch round deep dish pizza pan or a cast-iron skillet with butter or oil.
2. Roll Out the Dough:
   Roll out the risen dough into a large circle, about 1/4 inch thick. Press the dough into the greased pan, ensuring it comes up the sides to form a deep edge. Trim any excess dough.
3. Layer the Cheese:
   Start by layering the shredded mozzarella cheese directly on the dough. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy and adds that signature gooey texture.
4. Add the Toppings:
   Spread the Italian sausage, pepperoni slices, and any other desired toppings evenly over the cheese. Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or black olives for extra flavor.
5. Spread the Sauce:
   Spoon the prepared tomato sauce generously over the toppings, spreading it evenly to cover everything.
6. Finish with Parmesan:
   Sprinkle the top of the sauce with grated Parmesan cheese for a deliciously cheesy finish.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

1. Bake to Perfection:
   Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
2. Cool Slightly:
   Let the pizza cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set, ensuring clean slices.
3. Garnish and Serve:
   Garnish with fresh basil leaves or additional Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza hot and fresh out of the oven! Pair it with:

• A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens.
• Garlic breadsticks for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
• A glass of red wine or sparkling soda to complement the rich flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
• Freeze: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza is a true showstopper that brings the taste of authentic Chicago pizzerias straight to your kitchen. The rich, buttery crust, gooey layers of cheese, and tangy tomato sauce combine to create an unforgettable meal. Whether for family dinners, parties, or a special treat, this pizza is sure to impress!