By This Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza Recipe | Thick, Cheesy, and Satisfying balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza Recipe | Thick, Cheesy, and Satisfying captures the essence of breads & pastries while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza Recipe | Thick, Cheesy, and Satisfying becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
For the Crust:
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
2 teaspoons sugar
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup olive oil
For the Filling:
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled (optional)
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, sliced
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
1/2 cup pepperoni slices (optional)
For the Sauce:
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
PREPARATION STEPS
Prepare the dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water
Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, and salt
Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, and mix until the dough comes together
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare the sauce: While the dough is rising, make the sauce
In a saucepan, sauté the minced garlic in a little olive oil over medium heat until fragrant
Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper
Simmer the sauce for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally
Remove from heat and set aside.
Assemble the pizza: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface
Roll it out into a large circle, about 12 inches in diameter
Grease a deep-dish pizza pan or a cast-iron skillet with olive oil
Place the dough in the pan, pressing it up the sides to form a crust.
Layer the fillings: Start by layering the shredded mozzarella cheese on the bottom of the crust
Next, add the cooked sausage, sliced bell pepper, onion, mushrooms, and pepperoni (if using)
Pour the tomato sauce over the toppings, spreading it evenly
Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake the pizza: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly
If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.
Cool and serve: Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Time needed: 1 hour 30 minutes total (including dough rising time).
Calories: Approximately 350-400 per slice (depending on toppings).
ORIGIN
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 25 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 50 min | Servings: 10 | Calories: ~260 kcal | Difficulty: Medium
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRINGS
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
