Introduction
Dive into the comforting world of Homemade Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza, a beloved classic that embodies the essence of hearty, flavorful pizza. Known for its thick, buttery crust and generous layers of cheese and toppings, this pizza style originated in Chicago and has captured the hearts (and appetites) of pizza lovers everywhere.
What sets Chicago deep dish apart is its unique construction: the crust forms a deep, sturdy base that holds a bounty of rich ingredients, including gooey mozzarella, savory Italian sausage, and zesty pepperoni, all topped with a vibrant pizza sauce. Each slice offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a filling meal that’s perfect for sharing.
Whether you’re hosting a pizza night with friends or simply craving a slice of comfort, this recipe will guide you through creating an authentic Chicago-style deep dish pizza right in your kitchen. Get ready to impress with a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon oil
1 pound pizza dough
1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
⅓ pound Italian sausage
⅓ cup pepperoni, diced
⅔ cup pizza sauce
½ cup Parmesan cheese
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare the Pan:
Lightly oil the bottom (but not the sides) of a 9-inch cake pan.
Press the Dough:
Press the pizza dough into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pan, ensuring an even layer.
Layer the Ingredients:
First Layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough.
Second Layer: Add the raw Italian sausage on top of the cheese.
Third Layer: Add the diced pepperoni.
Fourth Layer: Pour the pizza sauce evenly over the toppings.
Top Layer: Finish with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the dough is deeply golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Method for Storing
To keep your delicious Chicago-style deep dish pizza fresh and tasty, follow these storage tips:
Cooling:
Let Cool: After baking, allow the pizza to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps prevent condensation in the storage container.
Wrapping:
Airtight Container: If you have leftover pizza, place slices in an airtight container. Alternatively, you can wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Duration:
Refrigeration: Store the pizza in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s best to consume it within this time frame for optimal flavor and texture.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the pizza. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen pizza can be stored for 2-3 months.
Reheating:
Thawing: If frozen, transfer the slices to the refrigerator to thaw overnight or leave them at room temperature for a few hours before reheating.
Reheating Methods:
Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the slices on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: For a quick option, microwave slices on a microwave-safe plate for 30-60 seconds, but note that this may result in a softer crust.
Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat, place the slice in the skillet, and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bottom is crispy.