HOMEMADE CHICAGO STYLE DEEP DISH PIZZA

Here’s a classic recipe for homemade Chicago-style deep-dish pizza:

Ingredients

Dough

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Filling

• 1 lb mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sliced pepperoni (optional)
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms

Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, salt, and sugar.
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
   • Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
   • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large circle, about 12-14 inches in diameter.
   • Grease a deep-dish pizza pan or a 12-inch cast-iron skillet with olive oil.
   • Carefully transfer the dough to the pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides.
   • Layer the sliced mozzarella cheese evenly on the bottom of the crust.
   • Add the cooked sausage, pepperoni (if using), bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms.
   • Pour the tomato sauce over the toppings and spread it out evenly.
   • Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
4. Bake:
   • Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
   • Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your homemade Chicago-style deep-dish pizza!