Homemade Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza

When it comes to iconic American dishes, Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza holds a special place in every pizza lover’s heart. With its tall, buttery crust, layers of gooey mozzarella, zesty tomato sauce, and hearty fillings, this pizza isn’t just food—it’s an experience. And the best part? You can make it from scratch at home with no special equipment required!

The first time I attempted a deep-dish pizza at home, I was skeptical. Could I really replicate that signature flaky crust and bold flavor without a deep oven or pizza stone? The answer was yes—and it turned out even better than expected. My family requests this recipe regularly now, and it’s become a weekend favorite, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying leftovers the next day.

If you love comforting, cheesy meals like our Crockpot Barbecue Ribs or Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, this homemade deep-dish pizza is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza

• Buttery, Crisp Crust: The cornmeal dough delivers that perfect deep-dish texture.
• Loaded with Cheese: A generous amount of mozzarella is layered beneath the sauce for maximum gooeyness.
• Rich Tomato Sauce: A chunky, seasoned sauce that brings it all together.
• Fully Customizable: Add your favorite toppings—sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, spinach, and more.
• Impressive but Easy: It looks like it came from a pizzeria but is very doable for home cooks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 tsp sugar
• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for greasing)

For the Filling:

• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled (optional)
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings:

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional)

How to Make Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza

1. Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, mix yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and olive oil. Mix and knead until a smooth dough forms, about 7–8 minutes. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.

2. Make the Sauce

While the dough rises, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20–25 minutes until thickened.

3. Preheat and Prep

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9-inch springform or deep-dish pan with olive oil. Punch down the dough and press into the bottom and up the sides of the pan.

4. Layer the Pizza

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the dough first. Add sausage, mushrooms, spinach, or other toppings. Pour sauce over the top and spread evenly. Sprinkle with Parmesan.

5. Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the crust is golden and the sauce is bubbling. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving and Storage

Serving Suggestions:

• Slice and serve with a fresh green salad or garlic knots.
• Enjoy as a standalone dinner or party centerpiece.

Storage:

• Refrigerate: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap slices in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until hot and crisp.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add sautéed peppers, onions, and olives.
• Meat Lovers: Add pepperoni, bacon, and sausage.
• Spicy Kick: Stir red pepper flakes into the sauce or add jalapeños.
• Cheese Options: Mix in provolone or fontina with the mozzarella.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, but homemade dough gives you the best texture and flavor.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the pizza and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

What kind of pan is best?
A deep-dish or springform pan works best for height and structure.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use two pans or a larger one to avoid overflow.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza delivers everything you want in a slice—crispy crust, melty cheese, and a rich tomato sauce that ties it all together. It’s perfect for weekend cooking, pizza nights, or impressing guests.

For more cheesy, hearty recipes like this one, don’t forget to browse our full collection at Mealova Recipes.