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Deep Dish Pepperoni Pizza for Your Comfort Day

Close-up of a thick slice of Deep Dish Pepperoni Pizza showing the high, golden crust, melted cheese, and crispy pepperoni.
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Make a thick, hearty, and cheesy Chicago style pizza at home. This recipe delivers pure indulgence perfect for a comfort food celebration.

Ingredients

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  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup olive oil, plus more for the pan
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 pound low-moisture mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
  • 1/2 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled (optional)
  • 12 ounces sliced pepperoni
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar in a small bowl. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cornmeal. Pour in the yeast mixture and 1/4 cup of the olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  4. While the dough rises, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and garlic powder. Simmer over low heat for 15 minutes. Set aside.
  5. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Generously grease a 9-inch deep-dish or springform pan with the remaining olive oil.
  6. Punch down the risen dough. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pan, creating a thick crust edge.
  7. Layer the ingredients inside the crust in this order: half of the mozzarella cheese, crumbled sausage (if using), pepperoni slices, and the remaining mozzarella cheese.
  8. Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the cheese and pepperoni layers. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
  9. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
  10. Let the pizza rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For an extra crispy bottom crust, brush the bottom of the dough lightly with melted butter before adding the cheese.
  • You can substitute ground beef or extra vegetables for the Italian sausage if you prefer.
  • This thick crust pizza freezes well after baking; cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to one month.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://hearthbite.com/deep-dish-pepperoni-pizza-recipe/