Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza is a hearty and satisfying dish that has become synonymous with the city of Chicago. Unlike traditional thin-crust pizza, this deep dish version features a thick, buttery crust that forms a deep, pie-like structure to hold layers of cheese, toppings, and rich tomato sauce. The result is a pizza that is both indulgent and comforting, perfect for a hearty meal with friends and family. This recipe will guide you through the steps to create an authentic Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, salt, and sugar. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the melted butter and olive oil to the yeast mixture, then pour it into the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a deep dish pizza pan or a 12-inch cast-iron skillet with olive oil.
5. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared pan. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pan to form a crust.
6. Sprinkle 2 cups of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the bottom of the crust. Add the cooked Italian sausage, bell pepper slices, and onion slices on top of the cheese.
7. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Spread the tomato mixture evenly over the toppings.
8. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the tomato sauce.
9. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and serve hot.