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Deep Dish Pizza Recipe

Deep Dish Pizza Recipe - Affordable Food Ideas

It's a chilly evening in Chicago. The aroma of pizza wafts through the air. Suddenly, memories of a deep dish pizza come rushing back. Flaky crust, warm gooey cheese, and rich tomato sauce—it's a delight for any pizza lover. 
This pizza isn't just food; it's an experience. Join me on a culinary journey to understand the true beauty of deep dish pizza.
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Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 1215
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pizza Dough
  • 1 and 1/4 cups lukewarm water
  • 2 and 1/4 teaspoons Platinum Yeast
  • 3 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 and 1/4 teaspoons fine sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar
  • Olive oil, for greasing the dough
Tomato Sauce for Both Pizzas
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes 28 ounces
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely grated around 1/3 cup
  • 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Toppings for Both Pizzas
  • 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
  1. Start by gathering a large bowl, and then combine the lukewarm water and honey. Sprinkle the Platinum Yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This is your yeast bloom—a crucial step to activate it.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
  1. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and sugar. Once your yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the dry ingredients. 
    Melt 1/4 cup of the unsalted butter (remember, you’ll save the rest for later), and mix it into the dough. Stir until combined.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
  1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic. 
    Once done, place it in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
  1. While the dough rises, let’s whip up the sauce. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the grated onion and sauté until translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. 
    Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and sprinkle with salt, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for about 20 minutes.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
  1. Grease a deep-dish pizza pan with olive oil. Roll out your dough into a large circle and fit it into the pan, pressing it into the sides. Next, layer 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on the bottom. Add your desired toppings; it could be pepperoni, bacon, or mushrooms. 
    Cover with another 2 cups of cheese. Pour the sauce over everything, making sure to cover the toppings.
Step 6: Bake the Pizza
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the pizza for about 30-35 minutes. The edge of the crust should be golden brown. 
    Once it’s baked, let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for a clean cut.

Notes

  • Use a Pizza Stone: If you own one, place it in the oven while it preheats. This will help achieve a crispy crust.
  • Experiment with Cheeses: Adding provolone or fontina cheese along with mozzarella can deepen flavor complexity.
  • Don’t Skip Rising Time: Allowing the dough time to rise makes it airy and adds to the texture.
  • Chill the Dough: For an easier handling experience, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes before pressing it into the pan.
  • Layer Strategically: Put the cheese under the sauce to prevent it from burning, and keep the toppings fresher.