Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza -

Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza

Recipe Summary

A rich, hearty Chicago style deep dish pizza with a buttery crust, layers of gooey cheese, savory toppings, and bold tomato sauce baked to perfection.

Prep Time

20 minutes

Rise Time

1–2 hours

Cook Time

35–40 minutes

Total Time

About 2 hours

Servings

6 slices

Calories

Approx. 450–550 kcal per slice

Ingredients

For the Dough

3 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornmeal

2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast

1 tsp sugar

1 tsp salt

1 1/4 cups warm water

3 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp melted butter

For the Filling

2 cups mozzarella cheese (sliced or shredded)

1 lb Italian sausage (cooked)

1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (optional)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Sauce

2 cups crushed tomatoes

2 cloves garlic (minced)

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour, cornmeal, salt, olive oil, and melted butter. Mix and knead until smooth. Cover and let rise for 1–2 hours.

2. Make the Sauce

Heat olive oil in a pan, add garlic, and cook briefly. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened. Set aside.

3. Preheat and Prepare Pan

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a deep dish pan or cast iron skillet with olive oil or butter.

4. Assemble the Pizza

Roll out the dough and press it into the pan, pushing it up the sides.

Layer in this order:

Mozzarella cheese

Cooked sausage and toppings

Tomato sauce on top

Finish with Parmesan cheese

5. Bake

Bake for 35–40 minutes until crust is golden and filling is bubbling.

6. Rest and Serve

Let the pizza rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy bite.

Tips for Best Results

Use block mozzarella for better melt and texture

Don’t overload with sauce to avoid soggy crust

Let the pizza rest before cutting for clean slices

Add fresh basil after baking for extra flavor

Variations

Swap sausage for veggies for a vegetarian version

Add spinach and ricotta for a creamy twist

Use spicy sausage or chili flakes for heat