Ready to dive into the cheesy, saucy goodness of a classic deep dish pizza pie? This recipe is your ticket to pizza paradise, combining a buttery crust, rich tomato sauce, and a mountain of mozzarella. Let’s get baking!
Why This Recipe Works
- The buttery crust is pre-baked to ensure it’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Layering the cheese first protects the crust from getting soggy under the sauce.
- A slow-cooked tomato sauce brings depth of flavor that store-bought sauces can’t match.
- Generous toppings ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Baking in a cast-iron skillet gives the pizza its signature crispy edges.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Equipment Needed
- 12-inch cast-iron skillet
- Stand mixer with dough hook
- Rolling pin
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add flour, cornmeal, salt, and melted butter. Mix on low speed until the dough comes together, then increase to medium speed and knead for 5 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic. Tip: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Let the Dough Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. This slow rise develops flavor and texture. Tip: For an even more flavorful crust, let the dough rise in the refrigerator overnight.
Pre-bake the Crust
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit your skillet, with some overhang. Press the dough into the greased skillet, trimming any excess. Prick the bottom with a fork, then bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden. This step ensures a crispy crust.
Layer the Pizza
Start with a layer of mozzarella cheese, followed by Parmesan. This cheese barrier keeps the crust crisp. Next, spread the tomato sauce evenly over the cheese. Sprinkle with oregano and garlic powder for extra flavor. Tip: For a meaty version, add cooked sausage or pepperoni before the sauce.
Bake to Perfection
Bake the pizza for 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the sauce is bubbling. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the cheese to set, making slicing easier.
Tips and Tricks
For the best deep dish pizza, don’t skimp on the cheese or sauce. The high sides of the skillet allow for generous layers. If you’re short on time, use store-bought dough, but homemade is worth the effort. Experiment with toppings, but remember to keep the cheese layer thick to protect the crust. Always pre-bake the crust to avoid sogginess. For a crispier bottom, bake the pizza on the lowest oven rack.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Delight: Load up with mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions.
- Meat Lover’s Dream: Add layers of cooked sausage, pepperoni, and bacon.
- Spicy Kick: Mix jalapeños into the sauce or top with red pepper flakes.
- White Pizza: Swap tomato sauce for a garlic cream sauce and add ricotta.
- BBQ Chicken: Use BBQ sauce instead of tomato and top with cooked chicken and red onions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling out. This actually enhances the flavor and texture of the crust.
What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?
No worries! A deep-dish pizza pan or even a springform pan will work. The key is to use something with high sides to contain all the cheesy, saucy goodness.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for the best texture. Microwaving can make the crust soggy.
Summary
This deep dish pizza pie is a labor of love, with a crispy crust, gooey cheese, and rich sauce. Perfect for pizza night or any occasion that calls for comfort food.
