Explore the world of Chicago style pizza, a true culinary gem. It turns simple pizza into a memorable meal. This dish, born in the 1940s, is a beloved comfort food in Chicago.
The pizza’s thick, buttery crust is a standout feature. It’s designed to hold lots of cheese, toppings, and tomato sauce. Unlike thin-crust pizzas, deep dish is a filling, satisfying meal.
Ready to make this classic dish at home? We’ll guide you through the process. You’ll learn to create a delicious deep dish pizza that will wow everyone.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Deep dish pizza features a thick, buttery crust
- Originated in Chicago during the 1940s
- Requires special deep or tall-sided baking vessels
- Allows for multiple layers of cheese and toppings
- Bakes at 450°F for approximately 40 minutes
More Pizza ideas
Deep Dish Chicago Pizza: History and Origins
In 1943, a new era in pizza began. Pizzeria Uno, at 29 East Ohio Street in Chicago, was where it all started. This place gave birth to the famous Chicago deep dish pizza, loved by many across the country.
Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo were the minds behind this new pizza style. They wanted to create something more than just a thin-crust pizza. They aimed to make a hearty dish that would become a staple of Chicago’s food scene.
“A pizza that eats like a meal” – The original deep dish philosophy
Chicago deep dish pizza stands out for several reasons:
- Thick, high-sided crust
- Layered ingredients starting with cheese
- Chunky tomato sauce on top
- Typically eaten with a knife and fork
Alice Mae Redmond was key in making the dough special. She used Southern-style biscuit recipes to create the deep dish’s unique texture. This made the pizza both hearty and delicious.
The first deep dish pizzas were only about 1 inch tall. But as they became more popular, so did their size. Today, Lou Malnati’s, a branch of Pizzeria Uno, has over 80 locations. They’ve spread the deep dish love far and wide.
What began as a local Chicago dish has turned into a national favorite. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of creativity and local pride.
Essential Equipment and Tools for Deep Dish Success
Making a real deep dish pizza needs more than just skill. You also need the right tools. The right tools are key to making a great Chicago-style pizza at home.
Experts know that the right tools make a big difference. The right pan, mixing tools, and accessories can turn your kitchen into a pizza paradise.
Pizza Pans and Baking Vessels
Choosing the right deep dish pizza pan is important. Here are some key things to look for:
- Height matters—aim for pans around 2.5 inches tall
- Material impacts heat distribution (carbon steel or anodized aluminum recommended)
- Nonstick coating ensures easy pizza removal
| Pan Brand | Height | Price Range | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| LloydPans | 2.5 inches | $36-$42 | Multiple sizes, professional grade |
| Emile Henry | 1.625 inches | $78 | Ceramic construction |
Mixing and Preparation Tools
Get sturdy tools for thick deep dish pizza dough:
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Heavy-duty mixing bowl
- Durable wooden spoon
- Bench scraper for handling sticky dough
Additional Equipment Recommendations
These tools can make your deep dish pizza even better:
- Pizza stone for extra crispy crusts
- Pan grippers for safe handling
- Digital kitchen scale for precise measurements
- Pizza wheel with a sharp blade
Quality equipment helps you make restaurant-quality deep dish pizza at home.
Key Ingredients for Authentic Chicago Style Pizza
Want to buy a Chicago style pizza or make one yourself? Knowing the key ingredients is essential. The best deep dish pizza starts with top-notch parts that turn a meal into a work of art.
Start your Chicago style pizza journey by picking the best ingredients. Here are the must-haves for a real Chicago-style pizza:
- Flour Blend: 3¼ cups of all-purpose flour (410 grams)
- Cornmeal: ½ cup yellow cornmeal (60 grams) for that crunch
- Cheese Combination:
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- Protein Options: Spicy Italian sausage or pepperoni
The secret to a real deep dish pizza is in its ingredients. The right mix of flour and cornmeal makes the crust thick and crispy. The cheese blend adds rich, gooey layers that set it apart.
Pro tip: Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients to capture the true essence of Chicago-style pizza.
If you’re looking to buy Chicago style pizza ingredients, focus on these key parts. Local specialty stores or online gourmet food retailers have authentic Chicago pizza ingredients. They can make your homemade pizza even better.
Mastering the Perfect Deep Dish Pizza Dough
Creating an authentic deep dish chicago pizza starts with understanding the art of crafting the perfect dough. The foundation of this iconic dish lies in a carefully prepared base that requires precision and technique.
Proper Dough Ingredients
To create a stellar deep dish chicago pizza dough, you’ll need a specific blend of high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll require:
- 4 cups King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
- 3 tablespoons cornmeal
- 1 3/4 teaspoons salt
- 2 3/4 teaspoons instant yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons water
Kneading and Rising Techniques
The secret to a perfect deep dish chicago pizza dough lies in proper kneading and rising. Knead the dough for approximately 7 minutes at medium-low speed in a stand mixer. The goal is to develop a smooth, elastic texture that will create that signature flaky crust.
Allow the dough to rise for about 60 minutes until it becomes very puffy. This crucial step develops flavor and creates the characteristic airy texture of authentic chicago deep dish pizza.
Dough Storage Tips
Pro tip: You can refrigerate your deep dish pizza dough for 24-48 hours to enhance its flavor. When you’re ready to use it, let the dough come to room temperature before stretching and shaping.
Remember, great pizza is all about patience and technique!
Layering Your Deep Dish Pizza Like a Pro
Making an authentic Chicago style pizza recipe needs a special layering trick. This trick is what makes this pizza different from others. Deep dish pizza layers in reverse, which might surprise you if you’re new to making pizzas.
The key to a great Chicago style pizza is how you put the ingredients together. First, oil your pizza pan lightly. This helps the crust get crispy and prevents it from sticking.
- First Layer: Cheese – Spread a generous layer of sliced mozzarella directly on the dough
- Second Layer: Toppings – Add your chosen meats and vegetables evenly across the cheese
- Final Layer: Sauce – Top with a thick layer of chunky tomato sauce
Experts say to use deli-sliced mozzarella for the best coverage. Make sure to overlap the slices. This way, the cheese covers the dough completely, keeping it from getting soggy. Cook meats like Italian sausage or pepperoni before adding them. This removes extra moisture.
The reverse layering method keeps your Chicago style pizza true to its roots. Putting sauce on top protects the cheese and toppings from burning. This way, your deep dish pizza turns out perfectly cooked.
Creating the Signature Chunky Tomato Sauce
Making the perfect tomato sauce is key to the best deep dish pizza in Chicago. The sauce is the highlight of this dish, turning a simple pizza into a masterpiece. It captures the heart of Chicago’s pizza tradition.
Selecting the Right Tomatoes
Start with the best tomatoes for your sauce. Chicago pizzerias like Giordano’s use hand-picked California tomatoes. For home cooks, try these:
- San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes
- Imported Italian plum tomatoes
- High-quality canned whole tomatoes
Seasoning and Spice Combinations
The secret to Chicago’s best deep dish pizza is its bold sauce seasoning. Mix these herbs for a standout flavor:
| Herb | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Dried Oregano | 1 tbsp | Adds earthy depth |
| Fresh Basil | 2 tbsp chopped | Brings brightness |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp | Provides aromatic base |
Sauce Consistency Tips
Getting the sauce just right is an art. You want it thick and chunky, sitting well on your pizza. Crush tomatoes by hand for a chunky texture. Simmer the sauce to reduce moisture and intensify flavors, making it rich and spreadable.
Best Cheese and Toppings Combinations
Creating the perfect chicago best deep dish pizza starts with the right cheese and toppings. Mozzarella is the top choice, giving that gooey stretch everyone loves. The right toppings can turn a good pizza into an amazing one.
Every day, Americans eat over eight million pizzas. Pepperoni is the favorite topping across the country. For a true chicago best deep dish pizza, try these classic mixes:
- The Fabulous Four: Gourmet Italian sausage, mushroom, onion, and green pepper
- Meat Mania: Italian sausage, meatballs, pepperoni, and bacon
- Classic Combo: Italian sausage, pepperoni, mushroom, onion, green pepper, and black olives
Chicago deep dish pizzas are special because they put toppings beneath the cheese. This way, every bite is packed with flavor.
| Topping Category | Top Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Meats | Italian sausage, pepperoni, Canadian bacon |
| Vegetables | Green peppers, onions, mushrooms, tomatoes |
| Specialty | Giardiniera, fresh garlic, olives |
Pro tip: Use fresh ingredients like Wisconsin mozzarella and local Italian sausage for your pizza. Feel free to try new combinations but keep the deep dish tradition in mind!
Baking Methods and Temperature Control
Making the perfect deep dish pizza needs careful baking techniques. These methods turn your ingredients into a delicious masterpiece. The baking process is key for a crispy crust and perfectly cooked toppings, just like a Chicago-style deep dish pizza.
Preheating Strategies
Getting your oven ready is crucial for deep dish pizza success. Heat your oven to 425-450°F (218-232°C) for even heat. Here are some important preheating tips:
- Place a pizza stone in the oven during preheating for an extra-crispy crust
- Let the oven heat up for at least 30 minutes
- Use an oven thermometer to check the temperature
Baking Times and Temperatures
The best baking time for deep dish pizza is 25-35 minutes. The exact time depends on several things:
- How thick the crust is
- The amount and type of toppings
- The type of deep dish pizza pan used
Troubleshooting Common Baking Issues
Even experienced bakers face challenges when making deep dish pizza. Here are some common problems:
- Soggy crust: Use less moisture in toppings and preheat well
- Uneven cooking: Turn the pizza halfway through baking
- Burnt edges: Cover crust edges with foil if they brown too fast
By learning these baking methods, you can make a deep dish pizza as good as Chicago’s best. You’ll get a crispy outside and a gooey inside.
Serving and Enjoying Your Homemade Deep Dish Pizza
After making your delicious chicago style pizza, serving it right is key to enjoying it fully. Whether you buy it or make it at home, how you present it is just as important as how you make it.
Let your pizza cool for 3-5 minutes after baking. This step is crucial for the cheese to set and for easier cutting. Chicago-style pizza is best eaten with a knife and fork, thanks to its thick, layered texture.
- Let pizza rest 3-5 minutes after baking
- Use a sharp knife for clean cuts
- Serve on a sturdy plate that can handle the weight
For the best dining experience, try these:
- Sprinkle fresh grated Parmesan
- Add red pepper flakes for extra kick
- Pair with a crisp green salad
If you’d rather buy chicago style pizza, look for local spots that specialize in it. Many places now ship nationwide, bringing Chicago’s flavors right to your door.
Conclusion
Creating an authentic deep dish Chicago pizza is more than cooking a meal. It’s about diving into a culinary tradition that’s a big part of the Windy City’s history. From the buttery crusts made famous by Alice Mae Redmond to the layering at Pizzeria Uno in 1943, each slice has a story.
Chicago deep dish pizza shows the city’s creative side. You’ve learned how to make a thick crust, a rich tomato sauce, and choose top ingredients. These skills connect you to pizza makers who have shaped this dish over the years.
As you try new toppings and improve your skills, remember that making deep dish pizza is an art. Whether it’s for family, friends, or yourself, each pizza is a piece of Chicago’s food culture. Your kitchen is a canvas, and your deep dish pizza is your masterpiece.
Enjoy the tradition, love the process, and relish every bite of your homemade deep dish Chicago pizza.
FAQ
What makes Chicago deep dish pizza different from other pizza styles?
Chicago deep dish pizza stands out with its thick crust and unique layering. It starts with cheese, then toppings, and finally sauce. This makes it more like a savory pie than a thin-crust pizza.
How long does it take to make a deep dish pizza from scratch?
Making a deep dish pizza takes about 3-4 hours. This includes dough preparation, rising, assembly, and baking. The dough needs 1-2 hours to rise, and baking takes 25-35 minutes.
Can I make deep dish pizza without a special deep dish pan?
Yes, you can make deep dish pizza without a special pan. Cast iron skillets or high-sided cake pans work well. Just make sure the pan has high sides for the thick crust and toppings.
What type of cheese works best for Chicago-style deep dish pizza?
Mozzarella is the top choice for deep dish pizza. It melts well and adds a gooey texture. Some places also add provolone or other cheeses for extra flavor.
Is deep dish pizza really from Chicago?
Yes, deep dish pizza is from Chicago. It was created in the 1940s at Pizzeria Uno by Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo. They made it a hearty meal, not just a snack.
How do I prevent my deep dish pizza from becoming soggy?
To avoid sogginess, pre-cook wet ingredients and use a thin cheese layer on the crust. Don’t overload with watery toppings. Also, preheat your oven well for a crisp crust.
Can deep dish pizza be frozen and reheated?
Yes, you can freeze deep dish pizza. Wrap it in foil and plastic wrap. Thaw it in the fridge and reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to keep it crispy.
Where can I buy authentic Chicago-style deep dish pizza if I don’t want to make it?
You can buy authentic Chicago deep dish pizza from places like Giordano’s, Lou Malnati’s, and Pizzeria Uno. They ship nationwide. You can also find it at specialty food stores and online.
Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
Equipment
- Deep dish pizza pan (2.5 inches tall)
- Stand mixer with dough hook
- Heavy-duty mixing bowl
- Pizza stone (optional)
- Pizza wheel
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 3¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup yellow cornmeal
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons water
- 2 ¾ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 ¾ teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the filling:
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage cooked
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 cups chunky tomato sauce
Instructions
- Make the dough: Combine all dough ingredients in a stand mixer and knead until smooth. Let rise for 1 hour.
- Prepare the pizza pan: Grease your deep dish pizza pan lightly with oil.
Layer the pizza:
- Spread a layer of mozzarella on the dough.
- Add cooked sausage, mushrooms, and onions.
- Top with chunky tomato sauce.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place the pizza on a pizza stone if available and bake for 40 minutes or until golden.
- Cool and serve: Let the pizza cool for 3-5 minutes, slice, and enjoy with fresh parmesan and red pepper flakes.
Notes
Let the dough rise for at least an hour to develop flavor.
You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours for better flavor development
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