Step into the heart of the Windy City and let the tantalizing aroma of a freshly baked, Chicago-style deep dish pizza whisk you away. This iconic dish is more than just a meal it’s a culinary experience that transports you to the bustling streets of Chicago, where the cravings for a thick, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying slice are almost as legendary as the city itself.
But this isn’t your average deep dish pizza. Our recipe is not only authentically Chicago, but also healthier than the traditional version, without sacrificing an ounce of flavor or indulgence. Prepare to embark on a flavor journey that will have your taste buds dancing with delight and your heart yearning for a second (or third) slice.
So, grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to master the art of creating a Chicago-style deep dish pizza that will make your friends and family marvel at your culinary prowess.
Let’s dive in and discover what sets this amazing recipe apart.
🎯 What Sets This Amazing Recipe Apart?
What makes our Chicago-style deep dish pizza so exceptional? It all comes down to the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and ingredients. We’ve carefully crafted this recipe to deliver an unbeatable taste experience, with a thick, buttery crust that’s crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, and a generous layer of gooey, melted cheese that oozes with every bite.
But it’s not just the indulgent components that make this pizza stand out. We’ve also incorporated healthier alternatives without compromising the classic Chicago flavor profile. By using a blend of whole-wheat and all-purpose flours, we’ve created a crust that’s not only more nutritious but also boasts a robust, nutty undertone that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
Ingredients
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water
• 1 pound (454g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1 (28-ounce or 794g) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon (5g) dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
The key to this recipe’s success lies in the careful selection of ingredients. The blend of whole-wheat and all-purpose flours not only adds a heartier texture to the crust but also provides a more substantial nutritional profile. The fresh mozzarella cheese, with its creamy, melty consistency, is the perfect complement to the tangy tomato sauce, which we’ve enhanced with garlic, oregano, and a touch of heat (if desired).
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the whole-wheat flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Create a well in the center and pour in the olive oil and warm water. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat the 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Pizza: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch deep dish or pie pan with non-stick cooking spray. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle about 1/4 inch thick. Carefully transfer the dough to the prepared pan, pressing it firmly into the sides and up the edges to create a tall crust. Arrange the sliced mozzarella cheese in an even layer over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Spoon the prepared tomato sauce over the cheese, being careful not to overfill the pan.
- Bake the Pizza: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the crust during the last 10 minutes of baking to ensure it doesn’t overbrown. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Timing Overview
• Cook time: 55 minutes
• Chill time: 30 minutes
• Baking time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 8 servings.
• Protein: 20 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 16 g
• Fiber: 6 g
🌿 Fun Alternatives to Try
• To Make it Vegan: Substitute the mozzarella cheese with a dairy-free, shredded mozzarella-style cheese. For the sauce, omit the cheese and blend the crushed tomatoes with 1/4 cup of raw cashews (soaked in water for at least 4 hours and drained) for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Stir in 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes into the tomato sauce, or top the pizza with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
🥂 Perfect Pairings & Serving Suggestions
• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish the pizza with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or toasted breadcrumbs for added texture.
• Beverage Pairing: This hearty pizza pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing non-alcoholic option like a sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime.
❗ Pro Tips for a Perfect Outcome Every Time
• Mistake 2 – Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure that all your ingredients, especially the dough and cheese, are at room temperature before assembling the pizza. This will help the dough bake evenly and the cheese melt seamlessly.
• Mistake 3 – Not Preheating the Oven: Preheat your oven thoroughly before baking the pizza. A hot oven is crucial for creating the perfect crisp, golden-brown crust.
📦 How to Keep Your Leftovers Fresh ?
• Freezing: Slice the pizza and wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or foil. Place the wrapped slices in a resealable freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat refrigerated or frozen slices, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! The dough can be made up to 3 days in advance. After the initial 30-minute rest, simply transfer the dough to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use. When ready to assemble the pizza, allow the dough to come to room temperature before rolling it out and assembling the dish.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While fresh mozzarella cheese is the traditional choice for a Chicago-style deep dish pizza, you can certainly experiment with other types of cheese. Try a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a slightly sharper flavor, or sprinkle in some grated parmesan for an extra cheesy touch.
How do I get the crust extra crispy?
For an extra crispy crust, try preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and baking the pizza for the first 15 minutes at this higher temperature. This will help set the crust and create a delightful crunch. Just be sure to reduce the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the remaining baking time to prevent the crust from burning.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire pizza in advance and bake it when ready to serve. Assemble the pizza, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the pizza from the fridge and let it come to room temperature before popping it in the oven.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover slices?
The best way to reheat leftover Chicago-style deep dish pizza slices is in the oven. Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is crisp and the cheese is melted. This will help restore the original texture and prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
💌 Enjoy Your Delicious Creation!
There you have it, the secrets to crafting an exceptional, healthier version of the iconic Chicago-style deep dish pizza. This recipe is a true labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort. Savor each bite, surrounded by loved ones, and revel in the delightful flavors that transport you straight to the heart of the Windy City. Bon appétit!
If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different toppings or flavor combinations. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing this beloved dish. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious creation!
Healthy, Authentic Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza
⏱️ Timing Overview
🥘 Ingredients
📝 Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the whole-wheat flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Create a well in the center and pour in the olive oil and warm water. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan, heat the 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch deep dish or pie pan with non-stick cooking spray. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle about 1/4 inch thick. Carefully transfer the dough to the prepared pan, pressing it firmly into the sides and up the edges to create a tall crust. Arrange the sliced mozzarella cheese in an even layer over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Spoon the prepared tomato sauce over the cheese, being careful not to overfill the pan.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the crust during the last 10 minutes of baking to ensure it doesn't overbrown. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
