Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza Recipe

Bring the flavors of the Windy City to your kitchen with this Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza recipe! Featuring a buttery crust, a hearty tomato-beef filling, and loads of gooey cheese, this pizza is a meal in itself. Whether it’s pizza night or a weekend treat, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: Combines a buttery, cornmeal crust with a rich, savory filling.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like sausage, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Family Favorite: A crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients for Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

For the Crust:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 3/4 cup warm water

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup tomato paste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, kneading until a smooth dough forms.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

2. Make the Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

3. Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit your deep-dish pizza pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and goes up the sides.
3. Spread a layer of mozzarella cheese on the dough base, followed by the beef filling. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

4. Bake the Pizza

1. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Slice into thick, hearty pieces and serve hot. Pair it with a crisp side salad or your favorite dipping sauce for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Deep Dish Pizza

• Dough Texture: The cornmeal gives the crust its signature texture and flavor—don’t skip it!
• Thicker Sauce: Let the tomato sauce simmer longer to prevent a watery filling.
• Custom Toppings: Feel free to add cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, or even spinach to the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?
Yes, though homemade dough provides the authentic texture and flavor. If using store-bought dough, add a bit of cornmeal to the bottom for that classic crunch.

What type of pan is best for deep-dish pizza?
A round, deep-dish pizza pan or even a cast iron skillet works perfectly.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Wrap individual slices in foil or plastic wrap and freeze. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Food

This Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza is everything you love about pizza, taken to the next level. With its buttery crust, hearty meat filling, and gooey cheese topping, it’s comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night or simply indulging in a weekend treat, this recipe will become a family favorite in no time.