Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will transform your kitchen into a legendary Chicago pizzeria! This isn't just any pizza - this is the king of all pizzas, a towering masterpiece of cheesy, saucy, and crispy perfection that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a pizza enthusiast or a curious home cook, this authentic Chicago deep dish recipe will revolutionize your understanding of what a true pizza can be. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a restaurant-quality dish that brings the heart of Chicago right to your dining table!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup Italian sausage, cooked
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp oregano
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, and sugar. Mix thoroughly.
- Activate the yeast by dissolving it in warm water (around 110°F) and let it sit for 5-7 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Create a well in the dry ingredients and pour in the activated yeast and olive oil. Mix until a soft, sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and prepare a 12-inch deep dish pizza pan by lightly greasing it.
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out to fit the deep dish pan, pressing it up the sides to create a thick crust.
- Layer the bottom of the crust with mozzarella cheese first.
- Add cooked Italian sausage and pepperoni evenly over the cheese layer.
- Pour marinara sauce over the meat, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and oregano on top of the sauce.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your yeast activation water is precisely 110°F - too hot will kill the yeast, too cool won't activate it properly.
- Kneading Technique: When kneading the dough, use the heel of your hand and push away, then fold back. This develops the gluten and creates a more elastic dough.
- Rising Environment: Place your dough in a warm, draft-free area. A slightly warmed oven (turned off) or near a warm appliance works perfectly.
- Layering Secrets: Always put cheese at the bottom to prevent a soggy crust. This creates a barrier between the sauce and the dough.
- Pan Selection: A true deep dish requires a high-sided pan. If you don't have a specific deep dish pan, a cast-iron skillet works wonderfully.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the pizza rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes cutting easier.
- Optional Flavor Boost: Consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or red pepper flakes for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 580kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 75mg
