December 28, 2024

Discover the Magic of Detroit-Style Pizza: A Crispy, Cheesy Delight

Introduction: A Regional Gem Goes Global

Detroit-style pizza is not just a meal—it’s a slice of history, innovation, and culinary artistry. Originating from the heart of America’s Motor City, this unique pizza style has gained worldwide acclaim for its crispy, caramelized edges, thick crust, and distinctive rectangular shape. But how did a pizza style born in a neighborhood bar rise to such prominence? Let’s explore its captivating journey and why it’s captivating food lovers everywhere.

The Origins of Detroit-Style Pizza

Detroit-style pizza was born in 1946 at Buddy’s Rendezvous (now Buddy’s Pizza), a bar in Detroit, Michigan. Gus Guerra, the owner, transformed Sicilian-style pizza by using blue steel pans—originally designed for automotive parts—to bake his creations. These pans ensured an even cook, creating the golden crust that defines this style.

What sets Detroit-style pizza apart is its unconventional layering. Cheese is spread directly onto the dough, reaching the pan’s edges to form a signature crispy crust called “frico.” The sauce, applied on top in dollops or stripes, preserves the crust’s crispiness. This reversal of traditional pizza construction exemplifies the ingenuity that mirrors Detroit’s industrial spirit.

Today, Detroit-style pizza stands as a testament to the city’s innovation, celebrated not only in Michigan but across the globe.

Why Detroit-Style Pizza is Trending

Detroit-style pizza has undergone a renaissance, thanks to its visually appealing, Instagram-worthy presentation and bold flavors. Restaurants like Emmy Squared in New York and Via 313 in Austin have reimagined this classic, drawing acclaim from critics and foodies alike. Even major chains like Pizza Hut have embraced the style.

Social media has amplified its appeal, with food enthusiasts sharing snapshots of its golden crust and layered toppings. Its comforting, hearty texture aligns perfectly with the growing desire for indulgent yet artisanal foods.

Key Ingredients for a Perfect Detroit-Style Pizza

To create an authentic Detroit-style pizza, these components are essential:

Flour: Bread flour for a sturdy yet airy crust.
Cheese: Traditional Wisconsin brick cheese melts perfectly and provides a rich, buttery flavor.
Tomato Sauce: A lightly seasoned, slightly sweet sauce made with crushed tomatoes.
Toppings: Classic pepperoni or creative variations like spicy sausage, roasted vegetables, or barbecue chicken.

Pro Tip: Summer veggies like zucchini or winter favorites like caramelized onions can elevate the flavor while reflecting seasonal produce.

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Detroit-Style Pizza

Experience the bold flavors of Detroit-style pizza with its signature crispy cheese edges, thick airy crust, and rich tomato sauce. A Motor City classic, this recipe delivers authentic taste with modern, easy-to-follow techniques.

Course Pizza Dough and Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword Pizza

Prep Time 1

Cook Time 40

Servings 8

Author N. Jay Sorensen, MBA RDN

Ingredients

Dough

1 cup 227 g lukewarm water
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons instant yeast
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
2 1/2 cups 300 g bread flour
1 tablespoon olive oil for tender richness
Olive oil for greasing the pan

Sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 garlic cloves minced
28 ounces 1 can crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Fresh basil optional, added after baking

Cheese Toppings

2 1/2 cups about 12 ounces brick cheese, diced (or substitute 50% white cheddar and 50% mozzarella for a close alternative)
Optional: 8-12 ounces 227-340 g pepperoni, sliced

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

Combine lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Stir until dissolved.
Gradually add bread flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 7-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add olive oil and knead just until incorporated.
Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough inside, and cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel.
Cold Fermentation: Refrigerate the dough for 12-24 hours. This slow fermentation develops flavor and improves texture.
Before Baking: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature (about 2 hours) before proceeding.

Make the Sauce

Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and oregano. Simmer for 20 minutes or until slightly thickened.
Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Shape the Dough

Generously grease a 9×13-inch Detroit-style pizza pan or a dark baking pan with olive oil.
Punch down the dough and transfer it to the pan. Gently stretch it to the edges. If it resists, let it rest for 15 minutes, then try again.
Cover and let it rise in the pan for 30 minutes, until puffy.

Assemble the Pizza

Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) and position a rack in the lowest slot.
If using, layer the pepperoni directly on top of the dough.
Spread the diced brick cheese (or the cheddar-mozzarella blend) evenly over the dough, ensuring the cheese touches the edges of the pan to create caramelized, crispy edges.
Spoon or dollop the sauce in three lengthwise rows or spread evenly, leaving some cheese exposed.

Bake

Bake the pizza on the lowest rack for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are deeply caramelized.
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Run a spatula around the edges to loosen the crust.

Serve

Transfer the pizza to a cutting board, slice into squares, and serve.
Optionally garnish with torn fresh basil leaves for a bright, herbaceous finish.

Notes

Substitutions: Replace brick cheese with a blend of mozzarella and white cheddar if needed.
Creative Toppings: Add roasted vegetables, spicy sausage, or BBQ chicken for unique flavors.
Reheating: To maintain crispness, reheat leftovers in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

A Nutritional Perspective

Detroit-style pizza is more than indulgence—it can provide nutritional benefits:

Protein: From cheese and toppings, aiding muscle repair and energy.
Lycopene: Found in tomato sauce, an antioxidant linked to heart health.
Carbohydrates: Offering sustained energy from the thick crust.
Healthy Fats: When olive oil is used for cooking or drizzling.

Balance your meal by pairing pizza with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Cooking Tips for Home Chefs

Recreating Detroit-style pizza at home is simpler than it seems:

Cold Fermentation: Let the dough rise overnight in the refrigerator to enhance flavor.
Cheese Placement: Spread cheese to the pan’s edges for that iconic crispy crust.
The Right Pan: Use a blue steel or a well-oiled rectangular baking pan.
Sauce Timing: Add the sauce after baking for a fresher flavor and preserved crust texture.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F to maintain crispiness.

Food Safety Considerations

Dough Handling: Allow refrigerated dough to warm before stretching to prevent tearing.
Cooking Temperature: Bake at 500°F to ensure thorough cooking.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3-4 days.

Serving Suggestions

Detroit-style pizza fits seamlessly into any occasion:

Game Day: Pair with garlic knots and dipping sauces.
Family Dinner: Serve alongside a hearty minestrone soup.
Party Appetizer: Cut into small squares for easy sharing.

Experiment with toppings to create personalized slices—from spicy jalapeños to tangy pineapple.

A Culinary Icon

Detroit-style pizza exemplifies how regional innovation can achieve global appeal. From its industrial roots to its status as a gastronomic icon, it’s a culinary experience that speaks to tradition, creativity, and flavor. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time taster, Detroit-style pizza promises a journey of taste worth savoring.