Go Back
Homemade Deep Dish Pizza photo

Deep Dish Pizza

This Deep Dish Pizza is a comforting classic! With a buttery crust and layers of gooey cheese, it’s perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:
  • 1 cup warm water Activates the yeast for a perfect rise.
  • 1 teaspoon honey Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast The star ingredient that makes the dough rise.
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter Adds richness and flavor to the crust.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour The base of our dough.
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal Provides texture and a unique flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances the overall taste of the pizza.
  • Olive oil For coating the pans and adding extra flavor.
For the Toppings:
  • 1 cup homemade marinara sauce The perfect complement to the cheese and toppings.
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese The gooey cheese that makes pizza so irresistible.
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese Adds a nutty flavor and extra creaminess.
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced For a fresh crunch.
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced Adds a savory depth to the pizza.
  • 1/2 cup pepperoni A classic pizza topping that everyone loves.
  • 1/2 cup sausage, cooked and crumbled Adds heartiness to the dish.
  • Fresh basil For garnish and a burst of freshness.
  • Salt and pepper To taste, enhancing the flavors of the ingredients.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rolling Pin
  • 9-inch round cake pan or cast-iron skillet
  • Spatula
  • Oven mitts

Method
 

From Start to Finish: Deep Dish Pizza
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water and 1 teaspoon of honey. Sprinkle the 2 teaspoons of instant yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Add 3 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cornmeal, and 1 teaspoon of salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
  2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
  3. Coat a bowl with olive oil and place the dough inside, turning it to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
  4. While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure a perfectly baked crust.
  5. Grease your 9-inch round cake pan or cast-iron skillet with olive oil. This will help prevent sticking and add a nice flavor to the crust.
  6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a large circle, about 1/2 inch thick. Carefully transfer the dough to the greased pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
  7. Begin by spreading 1 cup of homemade marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of the crust. Next, layer 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by the diced green bell pepper, sliced mushrooms, pepperoni, and crumbled sausage. Finish with a sprinkle of 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese on top.
  8. Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t over-bake.
  9. Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

  • This Deep Dish Pizza is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • If you prefer a crispier crust, you can bake the crust for 5-10 minutes before adding the toppings.
  • Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking – the possibilities are endless!
  • For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.