Description

Chicago style deep dish pizza is a thick, buttery crust filled with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or as a homemade treat. Easily made vegetarian, gluten-free, or vegan.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

– 2 tbsp olive oil

– 1 lb pizza dough (thawed, substitute gluten-free dough if needed)

For the Sauce:

– 1 can fire-roasted basil tomatoes (substitute diced canned tomatoes or marinara sauce)

– 1 small jar pizza sauce

For Toppings:

– 2–16 oz bags mozzarella cheese (substitute dairy-free cheese for vegan diets)

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (omit or substitute nutritional yeast for vegan diets)

– Pepperoni (optional, substitute sausage, mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables for variety)

For Garnish (Optional):

– Fresh basil leaves

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and brush a 9-inch cast iron skillet with olive oil.
Unroll the pizza dough into the skillet, pressing it evenly across the bottom and up the sides to form a thick crust.
In a small bowl, combine pizza sauce and fire-roasted basil tomatoes. Spoon the mixture evenly over the dough.
Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese, followed by an even layer of pepperoni (if using). Add another layer of cheese.
Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 30–45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh basil or shredded Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

– Use high-quality cheese: This ensures maximum meltiness and flavor. Substitute plant-based ingredients for vegan diets.

– Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore texture. Avoid microwaving if possible.

– Customizations: Swap pepperoni with sausage, mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables for variety. Add caramelized onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh arugula for added complexity.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Dish / Pizza
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American / Chicago Classics

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: ~400
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 45mg