Classic Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza
Experience the rich, hearty flavors of Chicago with this homemade deep-dish pizza recipe. Perfect for gatherings, this version features a buttery, cornmeal-infused crust that cradles layers of gooey mozzarella, savory Italian sausage, and a zesty tomato topping. Each slice is a comforting bite of Italian-American cuisine that will impress your friends and family. Get ready to indulge in a pizza experience unlike any other, ideal for sharing at parties or enjoying on a cozy night in.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Warm tap water
1 cup (heated to 110-115°F)
Active dry yeast
1/4 ounce (dissolved in water)
All-purpose flour
3 1/2 cups (measured and separated)
Cornmeal
1/2 cup (coarse ground)
Salt
1 teaspoon (mixed into the dough)
Vegetable oil
1/4 cup (for dough and greasing)
Mozzarella cheese
1 pound (sliced thin)
Italian sausage
1 pound (removed from casing and crumbled)
Diced tomatoes
1 (14.5 ounce) can (drained)
Garlic cloves
2 (peeled and minced)
Fresh basil leaves
5 (chopped fine)
Grated parmesan cheese
4 tablespoons (sprinkled on top)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza?
It is a hearty, Italian-American pizza featuring a buttery, cornmeal-infused crust layered with mozzarella, Italian sausage, and a zesty tomato topping.
What are the main ingredients for the crust?
The crust is made using all-purpose flour, coarse ground cornmeal, active dry yeast, warm water, salt, and vegetable oil.
How should the yeast be prepared for the dough?
Dissolve 1/4 ounce of active dry yeast in 1 cup of warm tap water heated to between 110-115°F.
Why is cornmeal included in the recipe?
1/2 cup of coarse ground cornmeal is used to give the crust its signature Chicago-style texture and flavor.
What kind of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses one pound of thinly sliced mozzarella cheese and four tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese.
How is the Italian sausage prepared?
One pound of Italian sausage should be removed from its casing and crumbled before being added to the pizza.
What type of tomatoes are best for the topping?
Use one 14.5 ounce can of diced tomatoes, ensuring they are thoroughly drained before use.
Are there fresh herbs in this pizza?
Yes, five fresh basil leaves, chopped fine, are added to the tomato topping for a fresh, zesty flavor.
How much garlic is needed for the recipe?
The recipe calls for two garlic cloves, which should be peeled and minced.
What is the purpose of vegetable oil in this recipe?
Vegetable oil is used both as an ingredient in the dough and for greasing the pan.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Yes, it is described as a perfect dish for gatherings, parties, or a cozy night in.
How much flour is required?
The recipe requires 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, measured and separated.
How is the parmesan cheese applied?
Four tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese are sprinkled on top of the pizza.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 12 distinct ingredients listed for this classic deep-dish pizza recipe.
What temperature should the water be for the yeast?
The warm tap water should be heated to exactly 110-115°F to properly activate the yeast.
What is the texture of the crust described as?
The crust is described as buttery and cornmeal-infused, providing a rich and hearty base.
How should the mozzarella be prepared?
One pound of mozzarella cheese should be sliced thin rather than shredded for this specific style.
Is this an authentic Chicago-style recipe?
Yes, it is designed to provide the rich, hearty flavors and traditional layering of a homemade Chicago deep-dish pizza.
Can I use salt in the dough?
Yes, one teaspoon of salt is mixed directly into the dough.
How do I handle the canned tomatoes?
It is important to drain the 14.5 ounce can of diced tomatoes to prevent the pizza from becoming soggy.
Is the sausage cooked before adding it to the pizza?
The recipe specifies that the sausage is removed from the casing and crumbled, then it bakes with the pizza.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
The tags include pizza, deep dish, chicago style, italian, american, comfort food, party food, and baked goods.
What aromatics are used in the sauce?
Fresh minced garlic and chopped basil are the primary aromatics used in the tomato topping.
Is this a comfort food dish?
Yes, every slice is described as a comforting bite of Italian-American cuisine.
What is the primary protein in this pizza?
The primary meat protein is one pound of Italian sausage.
Is the cornmeal fine or coarse?
The recipe specifies 1/2 cup of coarse ground cornmeal.
How many garlic cloves are used?
Two garlic cloves are used in the preparation of this recipe.
What type of yeast is required?
The recipe calls for one 1/4 ounce packet of active dry yeast.
Is the parmesan cheese mixed into the dough?
No, the grated parmesan is sprinkled on top of the pizza layers.
Who is this recipe intended for?
It is intended to impress friends and family, whether at a large gathering or a quiet meal at home.