HOMEMADE CHICAGO STYLE DEEP DISH PIZZA

You got it! Here’s how to make Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza — a cheesy, saucy, buttery-crusted pizza that eats like a meal. With a crisp yet tender crust, layers of melty mozzarella, savory sausage (or pepperoni), and a rich tomato sauce on top — this is the real deal.

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🍕 Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

🧂 Ingredients:

🔸 For the Dough (makes one 12-inch pie):

• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

• 1¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)

• 2 tsp sugar

• 3¼ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ cup cornmeal (for flavor & texture)

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ cup olive oil (plus extra for greasing)

• 2 tbsp melted butter (optional, for extra flavor)

🔸 For the Filling:

• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 lb Italian sausage (cooked and crumbled) or 20 slices pepperoni

• Optional: sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach

🔸 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: pinch of red pepper flakes

🔸 Topping:

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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👨‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:

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

2. Add flour, cornmeal, salt, olive oil, and melted butter (if using). Mix and knead until a smooth, slightly tacky dough forms (5–8 mins by hand or mixer).

3. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1.5 hours, until doubled.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.

2. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper.

3. Simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes until thickened.

3. Preheat Oven to 425°F (220°C).

4. Assemble the Pizza:

1. Oil a 12-inch deep-dish pan (or cast iron skillet or cake pan).

2. Roll dough out into a 14-inch circle. Press it into the pan, pushing up the sides about 2 inches.

3. Sprinkle mozzarella all over the bottom.

4. Add sausage, pepperoni, or other fillings.

5. Spoon the tomato sauce on top (yes — sauce goes on top in deep dish!).

6. Sprinkle with Parmesan.

5. Bake:

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

• Let cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing (this helps it set).

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🍽️ Serving Tips:

• Slice with a sharp knife or pizza cutter.

• Serve with a crisp salad or garlic bread.

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Would you like a vegetarian version, or tips for making it ahead or freezing?