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Elle Cresswell

The Grand Chicago Deep-Dish Experience

Indulge in the quiet decadence of a Chicago-style deep-dish pizza—its buttery, golden crust cradling layers of molten mozzarella and richly seasoned toppings, finished with a generous crown of vibrant tomato sauce.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornmeal
  • ½ cup unsalted butter gently melted
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 packet 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups mozzarella freshly shredded
  • 1 lb Italian sausage cooked and delicately crumbled
  • ½ cup sliced pepperoni
  • 2 cups rich chunky tomato sauce

Method
 

Activate the yeast
  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Leave undisturbed for 5–10 minutes, until a soft foam forms on the surface.
Prepare the dry ingredients
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, and salt until evenly combined.
Bring the dough together
  1. Add the melted butter and the activated yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until a cohesive, slightly tacky dough begins to form.
Knead with intention
  1. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for around 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Allow it to rise
  1. Transfer to a lightly greased bowl, cover, and leave in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven
  1. Set the oven to **475°F (245°C)**, ensuring it is fully heated before baking.
Shape the crust
  1. Roll the dough into a generous circle and press it into a greased cast iron skillet, allowing it to rise slightly up the sides.
Layer the filling
  1. Scatter 1 cup of mozzarella evenly across the base, followed by the cooked sausage and pepperoni.
Finish with sauce
  1. Spoon the chunky tomato sauce over the top, spreading it gently to cover the filling.
Bake
  1. Place in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the crust is deeply golden and the filling is bubbling.
Rest, then serve
  1. Allow the pizza to rest briefly before slicing—then serve warm, each piece revealing its rich, layered interior.

Notes

For a more wholesome base, consider incorporating whole wheat flour, lending the crust a deeper, more rustic character. The toppings, too, are entirely yours to compose—tailored to taste, season, or occasion.