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Chicago Deep Dish Pizza for a Communal Indulgence

Close-up of a thick slice of deep dish pizza showing layers of golden crust, sausage, mozzarella, and chunky tomato sauce.
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Make a thick crust, cheesy Chicago deep dish pizza at home for your next casual social gathering. This recipe delivers maximum flavor for a comforting, shared meal.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm water (about 105-115°F)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for the pan
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, cooked and drained
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes, drained slightly
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 pound low-moisture mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Add warm water and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled.
  3. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Lightly coat a 9-inch deep-dish pizza pan or springform pan with olive oil. Sprinkle the bottom evenly with cornmeal.
  4. Punch down the risen dough. Press or roll the dough into a circle large enough to fit the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pan.
  5. Brush the inside of the dough with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  6. Layer the ingredients in the following order: half of the sliced mozzarella, the cooked sausage, the remaining mozzarella slices, and finally top with the crushed tomatoes mixed with oregano, basil, and garlic powder.
  7. Sprinkle the top evenly with Parmesan cheese.
  8. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
  9. Let the pizza rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For an extra cheesy aesthetic, use a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese.
  • If you do not have a deep-dish pan, you can use a cast-iron skillet.
  • Cook the sausage ahead of time to save time on your pizza party night.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://pureplatepath.com/deep-dish-pizza-maximum-flavor-recipe/