When it comes to pizza, few styles evoke as much debate and passion as Chicago deep dish pizza. Known for its thick, buttery crust, abundance of cheese, and hearty toppings, this beloved dish has become synonymous with the Windy City itself. Whether you’re a lifelong Chicagoan or a curious foodie from afar, experiencing a slice of deep dish pizza is a culinary adventure not to be missed. Join us as we explore the history, what makes this pizza unique, and how you can recreate it at home.

A Brief History of Chicago Deep Dish Pizza

Chicago deep dish pizza made its debut in the early 1940s. According to popular lore, it was invented by Uno's Pizzeria, established in 1943 by Ike Sewell and Rick Riccardo. The concept was a shift from the traditional thin crust pizza that had dominated pizzas in other parts of the country. The deep dish style was an ingenious take on Italian-inspired fare, combining a savory, pie-like crust with layers of gooey cheese and toppings, all topped off by a zesty tomato sauce.

Over the years, deep dish pizza has taken on a personality of its own, becoming a symbol of Chicago culture, joining its famous skyline and sports teams in the city’s identity. Visitors flock to the numerous pizzerias to taste this hearty dish, making it a must-try when in the Windy City.


What Makes Chicago Deep Dish Unique?

Crust: The signature thick, buttery crust is baked in a high-sided, round pan. It has a flaky texture, similar to a pie crust.

Layering: Unlike traditional pizzas where sauce is typically on top, deep dish pizza is built in layers. Cheese is placed directly on the dough, followed by toppings and a generous helping of sauce, which keeps the cheese from burning.

Toppings Galore: Deep dish pizzas can be customized with a variety of toppings—pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and peppers are popular choices. The amount of cheese is typically generous, providing that iconic gooeyness.

Tomato Sauce: The sauce is often made from crushed tomatoes, seasoned with garlic, herbs, and spices. It’s thick and hearty and generously covers the pizza after the cheese and toppings have been added.


Chicago Deep Dish Pizza Recipe

Ingredients

For the crust:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

1 pound mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
1 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled (or your choice of toppings)
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 onion, sliced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water with the sugar and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.


Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, and salt. Add the melted butter and the activated yeast mixture. Stir until the dough comes together.


Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. Form it into a ball.


Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Cook the Sausage: In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat and set aside.


Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions until softened. Season with garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).


Shape the Crust: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll out the dough into a large circle, about 1/2 inch thick.


Form the Pizza Pan: Grease a 14-inch deep dish pizza pan or a round cake pan. Carefully press the rolled dough into the pan, making sure it covers the sides.


Layer the Ingredients: Start by placing the mozzarella cheese directly on the bottom of the crust. Follow with the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and any additional toppings you prefer.


Top with Sauce: Pour crushed tomatoes evenly over the top of your toppings. You can sprinkle a little extra oregano or basil for added flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.


Cool and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set a bit.


Tips for the Perfect Chicago Deep Dish Pizza

Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella is traditional, consider adding provolone or Parmesan for additional flavor.

Customize Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Chicagoans enjoy everything from classic pepperoni to more adventurous combinations.

Resting Time: Allowing the pizza to rest after baking helps make slicing easier and ensures the layers stay intact.


Conclusion

Chicago deep dish pizza is a culinary masterpiece that defies the conventional perception of pizza. It's a hearty, filling dish that's perfect for sharing with friends and family. With its rich history and bold flavors, making your own at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. So gather your ingredients, roll out that dough, and get ready to savor a slice of Chicago in your own kitchen. Buon appetito!