A Chicago-style deep-dish pizza is a thick, buttery-crusted pizza with layers of cheese, toppings, and a rich tomato sauce baked to perfection. Here’s how to make this iconic American pizza at home!

Ingredients (Makes a 12-inch deep-dish pizza)

For the Crust

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing the pan)

For the Cheese Layer

• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Pizza Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)

Toppings (Optional but Classic!)

• 1 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• ½ cup sliced pepperoni
• ½ cup sliced bell peppers
• ½ cup sliced mushrooms

Instructions

1. Make the Dough

1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter, then mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Pizza Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion and garlic until soft (about 3 minutes).
3. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and sugar.
4. Simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Assemble the Deep-Dish Pizza

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Grease a 12-inch deep-dish pizza pan with olive oil.
3. Roll out the dough into a 14-inch circle, then press into the pan, going up the sides.
4. Layer the mozzarella cheese on the bottom (prevents a soggy crust).
5. Add cooked sausage, pepperoni, and vegetables.
6. Pour the pizza sauce over the top and spread evenly.
7. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

4. Bake the Pizza

1. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 35-40 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
2. Let the pizza rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes.
• A side of garlic bread or a Caesar salad pairs perfectly.
• Enjoy with an ice-cold soda or beer for the full Chicago experience!