Homemade Chicago Style Deep-Dish Pizza

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling:

• 500 grams Italian sausage, crumbled (optional)
• 400 grams shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

1. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornmeal, salt, sugar, and active dry yeast. Gradually add the warm water while stirring until a dough begins to form.
2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a 9-by-2-inch round cake tin with olive oil.
4. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a circle about 15 inches in diameter. Ensure it’s large enough to cover the bottom and sides of the pan.
5. Prepare the Pan: Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough into the greased cake pan, making sure it covers the bottom and sides evenly. Trim any excess dough that hangs over the edge.
6. Cook the Sausage: If you are using sausage, brown it in a skillet over medium heat. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and spread shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough.
7. Add Toppings: Next, add the cooked sausage on top of the cheese and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. In the same skillet, sauté the green bell pepper, onion, and garlic until tender, then distribute this mixture over the cheese.
8. Layer the Sauce: Pour the crushed tomatoes over the vegetable mixture, spreading it out evenly. Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
9. Bake the Pizza: Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The crust should turn golden brown, and the cheese should be bubbling and lightly caramelized.
10. Serve: Once baked, allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing it from the pan. Slice and serve your Homemade Chicago-style Deep-Dish Pizza hot, and enjoy every delicious bite!

This homemade pizza not only captures the essence of Chicago’s culinary scene but also allows for personalization, making it a fun and satisfying dish for any gathering. Enjoy creating and sharing this delightful pizza with friends and family!