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HOMEMADE CHICAGO-STYLE DEEP DISH PIZZA

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Homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza: A True Slice of Heaven

If you’ve ever had a slice of Chicago-style deep dish pizza, you know it’s not just food — it’s an experience. With its thick, buttery crust, layers of gooey cheese, savory sausage, and rich tomato sauce, this legendary pizza is a comfort food icon.

While it may seem like something best left to the pros, you can actually make this iconic pie right at home. It’s easier than you think — and dare we say, even better when it’s homemade!


🍕 What Makes Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza Unique?

Unlike your typical thin-crust pie, Chicago deep dish flips everything upside down:

  • Thick, flaky, buttery crust that’s more like a savory pie dough
  • Cheese on the bottom, directly over the crust
  • Hearty toppings like Italian sausage and bell peppers
  • Chunky tomato sauce on top, not underneath

This reverse layering keeps the cheese from burning while the crust gets crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s rich, indulgent, and unforgettable.


🧑‍🍳 Ingredients for Homemade Deep Dish Pizza

🥣 For the Dough:

  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 2 tsp sugar
  • 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornmeal
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (optional for flakiness)

🧀 For the Filling:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (cooked and crumbled)
  • ½ green bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • ½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

🍅 For the Sauce:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of sugar (optional)

👨‍🍳 How to Make It

Step 1: Make the Dough

  1. In a bowl, mix yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add flour, cornmeal, salt, olive oil, and melted butter (if using). Knead until smooth (about 5–7 minutes).
  3. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

  1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
  2. Add crushed tomatoes, herbs, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until thickened. Add sugar if desired.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Grease a 9- or 10-inch cast iron skillet or deep dish pan with olive oil.
  3. Roll out the dough and press it into the pan, making sure to cover the sides.
  4. Layer mozzarella cheese directly on the crust.
  5. Add sausage, veggies, and any other toppings.
  6. Spoon the tomato sauce over the top and sprinkle with Parmesan.