Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • Additional 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for greasing the pan
  • Olive oil for the bowl
• For the Toppings:
  • 1 lb mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 1/2 lb cooked Italian sausage, crumbled
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cornmeal, salt, sugar, and yeast. Add the warm water and melted butter. Stir until a dough forms.
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 7 minutes.
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, about 60 minutes.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, sauté onion and green pepper until softened. Add the garlic, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until thickened slightly.
4. Assemble the Pizza:
   • Grease a 12-inch deep-dish pizza pan or cast-iron skillet with the additional butter.
   • Roll the dough out into a circle that will fit the pan, with excess to come up the sides.
   • Lay the sliced mozzarella cheese directly on the dough. Top with crumbled sausage, followed by the tomato sauce.
   • Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake the Pizza:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
   • Let the pizza cool for 5 minutes before cutting and serving.

Tips:

• For an Extra Crispy Crust: Pre-bake the dough for 10 minutes before adding the toppings.
• Customization: Feel free to add additional toppings of your choice like pepperoni, mushrooms, or olives.

This recipe captures the heart of Chicago-style pizza with its thick, buttery crust, layered with cheese, sausage, and a flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for a weekend dinner or gathering with friends! Enjoy crafting this iconic dish at home.