When it comes to pizza, there are countless varieties to choose from. But there’s one type of pizza that stands out as a true icon: Chicago deep dish pizza. Known for its towering layers of cheese, sauce, and savory fillings, Chicago deep dish pizza isn’t just a meal it’s a full-on experience. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of this indulgent dish or someone who has yet to try it, you’re in for a treat.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about Chicago deep dish pizza: from its rich history to how to make it at home. You’ll learn the key ingredients, tips for perfecting the crust, and the secret behind that signature gooey filling. Get ready to bring a taste of Chicago into your kitchen!
What is Chicago Deep Dish Pizza?
Chicago deep dish pizza is a thick, hearty, and incredibly cheesy pizza that features a buttery crust, rich tomato sauce, and a generous amount of cheese and fillings. Unlike traditional thin-crust pizza, deep dish pizza is baked in a deep, round pan, which allows for its signature thick layers. The crust is more like a savory pie, flaky on the outside and soft on the inside, with all the flavors melding together as it bakes.
One of the things that sets Chicago deep dish pizza apart from other types of pizza is its structure. The layers are built from the bottom up, starting with the crust, followed by a hearty layer of cheese (usually mozzarella), a meat or vegetable filling, and then a thick, flavorful tomato sauce on top. It’s a pizza that’s almost more like a savory pie a full meal in every bite.
The History of Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
The history of Chicago deep dish pizza dates back to 1943 when it was invented by Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo at their pizzeria, Pizzeria Uno. The two partners wanted to create a pizza that was different from the traditional Italian-style pizza being served in New York. The goal was to create a pizza that was filling, hearty, and could stand up to the colder temperatures of Chicago.
The deep dish pizza was born out of this desire for something robust and satisfying. The pizza’s thick crust acted as a barrier to hold all the ingredients in place, while the high layers of cheese and sauce ensured that every slice was filling and hearty. As it gained popularity, other pizzerias in Chicago began to adopt the style, and it eventually became a staple of the city’s food scene.
Why is Chicago Deep Dish Pizza So Unique?
What makes Chicago deep dish pizza so unique is its structure and the way it’s made. Here are a few key features that set this pizza apart:
- The Crust: The crust of Chicago deep dish pizza is thick, buttery, and slightly flaky. It acts as a sturdy base that holds the pizza’s heavy layers of cheese, meat, and sauce. It’s often made with cornmeal, which gives it a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.
- The Cheese: Chicago deep dish pizza is known for its liberal use of cheese, particularly mozzarella. The cheese is typically placed at the bottom of the pizza, which helps create a barrier between the crust and the sauce, preventing the crust from getting soggy.
- The Sauce: Unlike other pizzas, where the sauce is spread directly on the crust, Chicago deep dish pizza features a chunky, thick tomato sauce that is placed on top of the cheese and fillings. This helps keep the pizza moist and adds a rich, tangy flavor to balance out the richness of the cheese.
- The Filling: You can choose from a variety of fillings for your deep dish pizza. While the most classic version features a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage, you can also find options with vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions.
How to Make Chicago Deep Dish Pizza at Home
Making Chicago deep dish pizza at home may seem daunting, but with the right ingredients and a few tips, you can create a pizza that rivals what you’d find in the heart of Chicago. Let’s break it down step by step.
Ingredients for Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
To make a traditional Chicago deep dish pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (preferably whole milk mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Making Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, olive oil, and melted butter. Mix until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Make the Filling:
- While the dough is rising, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef (and sausage, if using) until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken.
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Assemble the Pizza:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9-inch deep dish or springform pan with butter or cooking spray.
- Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to fit the size of your pan. Place the dough in the pan, pressing it up the sides to form the crust.
- Layer the bottom of the dough with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese. Then, spoon the meat sauce over the cheese, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top of the sauce and finish with another layer of mozzarella cheese.
- Fold the excess dough over the top of the pizza and brush the crust with a little olive oil to help it brown.
- Bake the Pizza:
- Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling. You can check the pizza by inserting a knife into the center to make sure the cheese is fully melted and the pizza is hot throughout.
- Let It Cool and Serve:
- Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. This will help the cheese set and make it easier to cut.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
- Don’t Overload with Sauce: While the sauce is an essential part of deep dish pizza, you don’t want to overwhelm the crust with too much. A thick, chunky sauce is ideal, but be careful not to make it too watery.
- Use High-Quality Cheese: The cheese is one of the most important components of deep dish pizza. Opt for fresh mozzarella for the best melt and flavor. If possible, shred the cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which can affect the texture.
- Let the Pizza Cool: Deep dish pizza is quite thick, so giving it a few minutes to rest after baking will allow the layers to set and make it easier to slice without everything sliding apart.
- Experiment with Fillings: While the classic deep dish pizza is made with ground beef, sausage, and cheese, feel free to experiment with different fillings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or bell peppers to suit your tastes.
Variations on Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
Chicago deep dish pizza is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Vegetarian Chicago Deep Dish Pizza: Skip the meat and load up on fresh vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, and bell peppers. These will add plenty of flavor and texture while keeping the pizza light.
- Spicy Deep Dish Pizza: Add a little heat by tossing in some spicy Italian sausage, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Cheese Lovers’ Deep Dish Pizza: For an even cheesier pizza, add a variety of cheeses. Try mixing in provolone, ricotta, or even a bit of goat cheese for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
While Chicago deep dish pizza is a meal in itself, pairing it with a few complementary sides can elevate the dining experience. Here are some great ideas to round out your meal:
- Garlic Bread: Nothing pairs better with deep dish pizza than a side of buttery, crispy garlic bread. The crunchy exterior and soft, garlicky interior are perfect for soaking up the rich sauce and cheese.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp, refreshing nature of a Caesar salad is a great contrast to the heaviness of deep dish pizza. The creamy dressing, crunchy croutons, and salty Parmesan add an extra dimension of flavor without overwhelming the meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans are perfect for cutting through the richness of the pizza. The natural sweetness of the veggies balances out the savory flavors and adds some color to your plate.
- Antipasto Platter: If you’re looking for something a bit more festive or want to offer a variety of flavors, a classic antipasto platter is a great choice. Include items like olives, marinated artichokes, prosciutto, and fresh mozzarella to add a Mediterranean flair to your pizza night.
- Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For a hearty, comforting side, serve mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic. The creamy texture and subtle garlic flavor pair perfectly with the deep dish pizza, making for an indulgent, filling meal.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with berries, melon, or citrus adds a touch of sweetness and a refreshing contrast to the savory richness of the pizza. The natural sweetness can help balance the flavors on your palate.
FAQ Section
Can I make Chicago deep dish pizza ahead of time?
Yes! Chicago deep dish pizza can be made in advance. You can prepare the pizza up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat your oven and bake as directed. If you’re freezing the pizza, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze it for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 375°F for 35-45 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I use a different pan for baking?
While a traditional deep dish pizza pan is ideal, you can use a 9-inch round cake pan or even a springform pan. The key is to have deep enough sides to hold the layers. If you’re using a regular pizza pan or baking sheet, just make sure the crust is thick enough to hold the sauce and cheese.
What other toppings can I use for Chicago deep dish pizza?
Chicago deep dish pizza is highly customizable! Besides the traditional ground beef and sausage, you can add a variety of other toppings, such as pepperoni, bacon, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, or even spinach.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pizza dough ahead of time. After mixing, let it rise as directed, then punch it down and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to use it, let the dough come to room temperature before rolling it out. Y
Cooking Notes and Final Tips
Chef’s Notes:
The key to an excellent Chicago deep dish pizza is building the layers correctly. The crust needs to be sturdy enough to hold the sauce and cheese, and the layers should be placed in the right order. Remember, the cheese goes on the bottom, followed by the meat, and then the sauce. This keeps the crust from getting soggy and ensures that every bite has the perfect combination of cheese, sauce, and fillings.
Pro Tips:
- Prevent Soggy Crust: To prevent the crust from getting soggy, make sure the tomato sauce isn’t too watery. If using fresh tomatoes, make sure to drain them thoroughly before adding them to the sauce.
- Use a Pizza Stone: If you have a pizza stone, use it! Preheat the stone in the oven, then bake the pizza directly on it. The stone will create a crispy, golden crust.
- Check for Doneness: Deep dish pizzas take longer to cook than traditional pizzas, so make sure to give it enough time to bake. The crust should be golden and crisp, and the cheese should be bubbling and melted.
- Rest the Pizza: Let the pizza rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This will allow the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve without everything sliding apart.
Conclusion
There you have it the ultimate guide to making Chicago deep dish pizza at home. This iconic dish is the perfect way to enjoy a hearty, cheesy pizza with a crispy, buttery crust that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a family dinner, or just to indulge in some comfort food, Chicago deep dish pizza will always impress.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Drop a comment below and let me know how you customized your deep dish pizza or share your photos with me on social media I’d love to see your creations!
Looking for more delicious pizza recipes? Be sure to check out the other pizza-inspired recipes on my blog, including Margherita Pizza, Buffalo Chicken Pizza, and Vegetarian Pizza. There’s a pizza for every occasion!
Thanks for reading, and happy pizza making