Chicago Deep Dish In USA

Chicago Deep Dish pizza is a uniquely American food recipe that puts a bold twist on traditional Italian pizza, known for its towering crust, hearty fillings, and pie-like appearance. Developed in the 1940s, most famously at Pizzeria Uno in Chicago, this food recipe transforms pizza into a rich, layered dish meant to be eaten with a fork and knife. The deep, buttery crust forms a bowl to hold layers of gooey mozzarella cheese, savory meats like Italian sausage, sautéed vegetables, and a thick, tangy tomato sauce on top. Unlike thinner pizzas, the deep dish is baked slowly to ensure the thick layers cook evenly, creating a crispy, golden crust and a molten, cheesy interior.

This indulgent pizza isn't your typical fast food slice—it’s a sit-down meal meant to satisfy serious appetites. The layering of ingredients in reverse order (cheese first, sauce last) helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy during the long baking time. Whether you’re a fan of its bold, comforting Flavors or the unique eating experience it offers, Chicago Deep Dish has earned its place as one of the most iconic regional pizzas in the world. Here's how to make this deep, delicious pizza right in your own kitchen.

Chicago Deep Dish Pizza Recipe

Servings: 1 large 12-inch pizza
Prep Time: 3–4 hours (including dough rise)
Cook Time: 30–40 minutes

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (65g) cornmeal (for texture)
• 1 ¼ teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water
• ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil
• ¼ cup (60g) melted butter

For the Filling:

• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 pound (450g) Italian sausage (crumbled and cooked)
• 1 green bell pepper (sliced and sautéed) – optional
• 1 small onion (sliced and sautéed) – optional
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 can (28 oz / 800g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

For Topping:

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Make the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Add flour, cornmeal, salt, olive oil, and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms.
• Knead on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

• In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
• Add crushed tomatoes, herbs, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes until thickened. Set aside to cool.

3. Preheat and Prep:

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Grease a 12-inch deep-dish pizza pan or cast iron skillet with olive oil or butter.

4. Assemble the Pizza:

• Roll the dough out into a circle slightly larger than your pan.
• Press dough into the pan and up the sides to form a deep crust.
• Layer mozzarella cheese directly on the crust.
• Add cooked sausage and sautéed vegetables.
• Spoon the tomato sauce over the top and spread evenly.
• Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.

5. Bake:

• Bake for 30–40 minutes until the crust is golden and the sauce is bubbling.
• Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.

Serve and Enjoy!

This hearty, cheesy, tomato-rich pizza is best served warm and sliced like a pie. Pair it with a crisp green salad or enjoy it all on its own—it’s a complete meal in one slice. Perfect for weekend dinners, parties, or whenever you're craving something rich and satisfying.

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