“`html
Nothing beats the comfort of a homemade pizza, especially when it’s a classic Chicago-style deep-dish. This recipe brings the iconic flavors of Chicago right to your kitchen, with layers of gooey cheese, a rich tomato sauce, and a buttery crust that’s crispy yet soft. Whether you’re a pizza aficionado or just someone who loves a good slice, this homemade version will surely win you over.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicago-style deep-dish pizza is a treat for your taste buds with its thick crust, gooey cheese layers, and tangy tomato sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Plus, making it at home means you can customize it to your liking, whether you prefer extra cheese or want to add some spicy sausage.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Rolling pin
- 12-inch baking pan
- Plastic wrap
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups white flour
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 2 tsp granulated sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 2/3 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- ½ cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup of water
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small grated onion
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp black pepper
- A pinch of sugar
For Topping:
- Mozzarella and cheddar cheese
Directions
Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, salt, sugar, and yeast. Add the melted butter and water, mixing until the dough is fully combined.
Step 2: Coat a bowl with 1 tsp olive oil and place the dough inside. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise for 30-45 minutes.
Step 3: Using a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and cook the onion until golden brown. Add the cooked onion to the crushed tomatoes along with sugar, basil, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Cook the mixture for about 20 minutes.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 425°F (215°C).
Step 5: Remove the dough and place it on a floured surface. Roll it out into a 12-inch (30 cm) circle, stretching it enough to cover the bottom and sides of the baking pan.
Step 6: Sprinkle 2 cups of mozzarella evenly over the surface of the dough. If using any meat or veggie toppings, add them now on top of the cheese.
Step 7: Spread 1 1/2 cups of tomato sauce over the cheese (or toppings) and sprinkle 2 tablespoons of Parmesan over the sauce. Bake until the crust is golden brown, about 20 to 30 minutes.
Step 8: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure the dough rises fully for a fluffy crust.
- Use fresh basil for a more aromatic sauce.
- Don’t skip resting the pizza before serving to let the cheese set.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try adding toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This homemade pizza is rich in flavor and provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it a satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
What cheese works best for deep-dish pizza? Mozzarella is a classic choice, but a blend with cheddar adds a nice sharpness.
Conclusion
There you have it—a delightful homemade Chicago-style deep-dish pizza that’s sure to impress. Give this recipe a try, savor each cheesy slice, and don’t forget to share your experience with us. Happy cooking!
“`