Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

Ingredients

• For the crust: For the crust:
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (60g) cornmeal 1/2 cup (60g) cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) ice water 1/2 cup (120ml) ice water
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup (240ml) chunky tomato sauce 1 cup (240ml) chunky tomato sauce
• Optional toppings: sausage, pepperoni, vegetables Optional toppings: sausage, pepperoni, vegetables

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 14g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt for the crust.
2. 2.
   Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   Gradually add the ice water to the mixture, stirring until the dough comes together.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it gently until it forms a smooth ball.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. 6.
   Grease a deep-dish pizza pan or a round cake pan with butter or cooking spray.
7. 7.
   Roll out the dough into a circle slightly larger than the pan. Carefully transfer the dough to the prepared pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides.
8. 8.
   Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough.
9. 9.
   Pour the chunky tomato sauce over the cheese, spreading it out evenly.
10. 10.
    Add any desired toppings, such as sausage, pepperoni, or vegetables.
11. 11.
    Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the toppings.
12. 12.
    Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
13. 13.
    Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Make sure to use fine cornmeal for a smoother texture in the crust.
• Chunky tomato sauce — If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the chunky tomato sauce in a blender or food processor before using it in the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a crispier crust, pre-bake the crust for 5-7 minutes before adding the toppings.
• Experiment with different toppings such as mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers to customize your pizza.
• For a spicier kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking.
• Let the pizza cool for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together before slicing.
• Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Serving advice

Serve the Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza hot, straight from the oven. Cut it into wedges and serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Presentation advice

Present the pizza on a wooden cutting board or a pizza stone to enhance its rustic appeal. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of elegance.