Chicago-style deep-dish pizza

Here’s a classic Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza recipe — famous for its buttery, cornmeal-infused crust, thick layers of mozzarella, savory sausage or pepperoni, and a rich tomato sauce on top. Unlike regular pizza, the order of toppings is reversed and it’s baked in a deep pan for a hearty, knife-and-fork experience.

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🍕 Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza

🧾 Ingredients (1 large 9–10 inch pizza)

For the Dough:

• 2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast

• 1½ tsp sugar

• ¾ cup warm water (110°F/45°C)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ cup yellow cornmeal

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ cup olive oil (plus more for greasing)

For the Cheese & Toppings:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½–¾ lb Italian sausage (or pepperoni, mushrooms, spinach, etc.)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan (for topping)

For the Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp sugar

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Optional: red pepper flakes or fresh basil

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🔪 Instructions

1. Make the Dough (can be made ahead)

1. In a small bowl, combine yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. In a large bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, and salt.

3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until dough comes together.

4. Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth.

5. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled — about 1 hour.

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2. Make the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, salt & pepper. Simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes until thickened slightly.

3. Taste and adjust seasoning.

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3. Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Grease a 9- or 10-inch deep-dish pan or cake pan with olive oil.

3. Press dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pan (about 1½–2 inches up).

4. Layer in this order:

   • First: mozzarella cheese (protects crust from sogginess)

   • Second: cooked sausage or toppings

   • Third: thick layer of tomato sauce

   • Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese

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4. Bake

• Bake for 25–30 minutes until the crust is golden and the sauce is bubbling.

• Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing — this helps it set.

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🍽️ Tips:

• Crust too thick? Use only ¾ of the dough for a thinner base.

• Double it if you’re making it in a 12-inch cast iron pan.

• Want it extra crispy? Preheat the pan in the oven before pressing in the dough.

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Would you like a stuffed crust version, a spinach and ricotta deep-dish, or tips for making it in a cast iron skillet?