January 26, 2023

Master the Art of Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza: Recipe & Tips

Picture this: a buttery, golden crust cradling layers of gooey mozzarella, savory meats, vibrant vegetables, and a luscious tomato sauce, baked to perfection. Welcome to the world of Chicago-style deep dish pizza, a true icon of the Windy City’s culinary heritage. This iconic dish has captured the hearts of food lovers around the globe, becoming a hallmark of the Windy City’s rich culinary legacy. In this post, we’ll delve into the history of this famed pizza, explore why it remains so popular, and uncover the secrets to making a perfect Chicago-style deep dish pizza right in your kitchen. Along the way, we’ll highlight its nutritional benefits, serving ideas, essential chef tips, and food safety considerations.

A Brief History of Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

The Chicago-style deep dish pizza originated in the 1940s at Pizzeria Uno, a beloved Chicago institution. Legend has it that Ike Sewell, one of the founders, envisioned a pizza so hearty it could be a meal in itself, prompting the creation of the now-famous thick crust and layered toppings. As Sewell famously said, “Why not make a pizza you need a knife and fork to eat?” Its creators, Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo, wanted to offer something distinct from the traditional thin-crust pizzas of the time. Their innovation? A thick, buttery crust filled with layers of cheese, savory meats, and fresh vegetables, topped with a rich tomato sauce. This reverse layering method not only set their creation apart but also captured the imaginations (and appetites) of pizza lovers everywhere. As immigrants flocked to Chicago, the dish became a unifying culinary staple, celebrated for its hearty, indulgent nature. Today, it’s a symbol of Chicago’s culinary ingenuity and a must-try for anyone visiting the city.

Why Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza is So Popular

What makes this pizza so irresistible? Its decadent layers of flavor and texture offer an indulgent yet comforting dining experience. The sturdy, buttery crust is perfect for holding the generous fillings, while the gooey cheese and vibrant tomato sauce create a harmonious flavor profile. Social media has also played a role in its continued popularity, with foodies sharing drool-worthy photos of this impressive dish. Hashtags like #DeepDishLove and viral TikTok videos showcasing the cheese pull have further elevated its fame, drawing pizza enthusiasts from all over the world. Additionally, the customizable nature of the toppings allows everyone to create their ideal pizza. Its versatility makes it a dish that appeals to both traditionalists and adventurous eaters.

Common Ingredients in Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

A classic Chicago-style deep dish pizza relies on high-quality, nutrient-rich ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Crust: A thick, buttery, and flaky dough made with a touch of cornmeal for added texture.
Cheese: Mozzarella is the star, often accompanied by a sprinkle of Romano or Parmesan for extra depth.
Tomato Sauce: Rich and tangy, often made with crushed plum tomatoes and herbs.
Toppings: Popular choices include Italian sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, and olives.

Seasonal and local ingredients can elevate the dish—try incorporating fresh vegetables from your local farmer’s market to add both flavor and nutritional value.

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CHICAGO STYLE DEEP DISH

Indulge in the iconic flavors of Chicago with this classic Chicago-style deep dish pizza. With its deep crust, layers of cheese, meat, and vegetables, this pizza is a true delight for pizza enthusiasts. Follow this step-by-step recipe to recreate the authentic taste of Chicago in your own kitchen.

Course Pizza Dough and Recipes

Cuisine American

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Servings 6

Author N. J. Sorensen, RDN

Ingredients

1 large onion — coarsely chopped
½ pound ground sirloin
½ pound ground pork
1 teaspoon whole fennel seed
3 each plum tomato
1 recipe Cornmeal Pizza Dough
1 pound mozzarella cheese
¾ cup Romano cheese — grated
1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
1 ½ teaspoons dried basil
16 ounces Hunt’s Spaghetti Sauce
⅓ cup olive oil

Instructions

In a medium sauté pan, cook the onion and meats over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink and the onion is cooked. Blot up any excess fat with a paper towel. Add the fennel seed and set aside to cool.
Skin and chop the plum tomatoes. Place them in a sieve and let them drain for 10 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F and position a pizza stone on the lower third rack. Allow it to heat for 20 to 30 minutes before baking.
Brush a 14-inch deep-dish pizza pan with oil. Press the pizza dough into the pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and goes up the sides to the rim. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
In a bowl, combine the mozzarella, Romano cheese, and herbs. Sprinkle two-thirds of the cheese mixture over the dough. Next, spread the entire can of sauce on top and drizzle with olive oil. Distribute the meat mixture as the next layer, followed by the chopped tomatoes. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheese mixture and drizzle with the remaining olive oil.
Bake the pizza for 15 minutes, then lower the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 40 to 45 minutes. If the cheese becomes too brown, cover with foil for the last 10 minutes. The crust should be golden brown; check the bottom by lifting it with a metal spatula. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest on a rack for 10 minutes before cutting. Serve while still hot.

Notes

Enjoy the authentic taste of Chicago with this delicious deep dish pizza recipe. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, this hearty pizza will transport your taste buds to the windy city.

Nutritional Aspects of Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

While this pizza is undeniably indulgent, it can be part of a balanced diet when prepared mindfully. Here are some ways to enhance its nutritional profile:

Whole Grain Crust: Substitute whole wheat or whole grain flour for added fiber.
Lean Proteins: Opt for turkey sausage or plant-based protein alternatives.
Vegetables: Load up on nutrient-rich veggies like spinach, kale, or roasted red peppers.
Cheese in Moderation: Use reduced-fat cheese or cut back slightly on the amount to reduce saturated fat.

A single slice provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fat, making it a satisfying meal. To calculate the nutritional breakdown, consider using online tools or apps that allow you to input specific ingredients and quantities for an accurate analysis tailored to your version of the dish. For calorie-conscious diners, a typical slice can range between 350-500 calories, depending on the toppings. Pair it with a green salad for a complete and nutritious plate.

Serving Ideas for Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

This hearty dish is perfect for gatherings and special occasions. Here are some creative ways to serve it:

Classic Pairings: Serve with a crisp Caesar salad or a tangy coleslaw to balance the richness of the pizza.
Dipping Sauces: Offer marinara, garlic butter, or pesto as dipping options.
Beverage Pairings: Complement the pizza with a craft beer, a robust red wine like Chianti, or a classic Old Fashioned cocktail for a true Chicago experience.
Family Style: Cut into smaller slices and pair with an antipasto platter featuring olives, cured meats, and cheeses.

For an authentic Chicago touch, try serving it with Giardiniera, a tangy pickled vegetable mix that adds a burst of flavor.

Chef Tips for Perfecting Your Deep Dish Pizza

To achieve pizza perfection, keep these tips in mind:

Rest Your Dough: Allow the dough to rest before pressing it into the pan to ensure a tender, flaky crust.
Layer Strategically: Start with cheese, then add toppings, and finish with sauce to prevent a soggy crust.
Even Distribution: Spread toppings evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
Temperature Control: Preheat your oven and use a pizza stone to ensure even cooking and a golden-brown crust.
Experiment: Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.

For visual guidance, consider adding photos or videos of the dough preparation, layering process, and finished product to make the experience even more engaging.

Food Safety Considerations

When preparing your Chicago-style deep dish pizza, follow these food safety guidelines:

Cook Thoroughly: Ensure the internal temperature of the pizza reaches at least 165°F.
Handle Raw Ingredients Safely: Wash your hands after handling raw meats and keep them separate from vegetables.
Store Leftovers Properly: Refrigerate any leftovers within two hours of cooking and consume within three days.
Reheat Safely: Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain the crust’s texture while bringing the pizza up to a safe temperature.

Conclusion

Chicago-style deep dish pizza is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines rich history, indulgent flavors, and culinary creativity. Whether you’re savoring it at a pizzeria in the Windy City or crafting it at home, this iconic dish is sure to impress. With the tips and recipe provided here, you’re well on your way to mastering the art of Chicago-style deep dish pizza. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your favorite toppings, and create a pizza that’s as memorable as Chicago itself.

Want to share your masterpiece? Post your creation on social media and tag us using #DeepDishCreation or @FoodAndNutritionBlog! We’d love to see your version of this iconic dish. We’d love to see how you make this iconic dish your own.