Chicago Pizza Recipes: The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Deep Dish & More
There’s pizza, and then there’s Chicago pizza. Thick, indulgent, buttery crust. Gooey layers of cheese. Tangy tomato sauce ladled on top, rich and unapologetic. If you’ve ever sat in a booth in downtown Chicago with a bubbling pan of deep dish in front of you, you know it’s not just food—it’s an experience.
But here’s the best part: you don’t have to book a flight to Illinois to enjoy that legendary flavor. Today, I’m sharing my tried-and-true Chicago pizza recipes, perfected in my own kitchen after years of experimenting. From the classic deep dish to stuffed pizza and even a lighter thin crust variation, you’ll learn exactly how to bring that Windy City magic to your table.
So, tie on your apron, grab your cast iron pan, and let’s get baking.
Why Chicago Pizza Recipes Are Special
When most people think “pizza,” their mind goes straight to thin, foldable slices—New York style. Chicago flips that idea upside down. Here’s what makes it unique:
- The crust – More like a pie crust than bread. Buttery, flaky, and sturdy enough to hold heavy toppings.
- Cheese first – Mozzarella goes directly on the crust, acting like a shield that keeps it from getting soggy.
- Toppings next – Sausage, pepperoni, or veggies get layered generously over the cheese.
- Sauce last – Instead of under the cheese, the chunky tomato sauce crowns the pizza.
It’s an inside-out pizza that eats more like a casserole. And it’s glorious.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the foundation for my authentic Chicago-style deep dish pizza. Don’t skimp on quality—the better your ingredients, the better the pie.
Ingredients & Measurements
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 ½ cups | For the crust |
| Cornmeal | ½ cup | Essential for that signature flavor |
| Instant yeast | 2 ¼ tsp | One standard packet |
| Warm water | 1 ¼ cups | About 110°F |
| Olive oil | ¼ cup | Adds richness to dough |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | 4 tbsp | For that buttery crust |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp | Helps activate yeast |
| Salt | 2 tsp | Balances flavor |
| Mozzarella cheese | 4 cups (shredded) | Whole milk for creaminess |
| Italian sausage | 1 lb | Remove casings if using links |
| Pepperoni slices | 1 cup | Optional, or swap with veggies |
| Crushed tomatoes | 28 oz can | Preferably San Marzano |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | For the sauce |
| Dried oregano | 2 tsp | Classic pizza flavor |
| Fresh basil | Handful, chopped | For brightness |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup (grated) | To finish on top |
This makes one large 12-inch Chicago-style deep dish pizza.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make the ultimate Chicago deep dish pizza right at home:
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, cornmeal, salt, olive oil, and melted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead by hand (8–10 minutes) or with a stand mixer (5–6 minutes) until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
Tip: The cornmeal and butter are what set this crust apart. Don’t skip them.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, and salt. Simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Finish with fresh basil and set aside.
The sauce should be thick—runny sauce will ruin your pizza.
Step 3: Prep the Pan
- Grease a 12-inch deep dish pan (or cast iron skillet) with olive oil and a little butter.
- Roll out your dough into a large circle. Place it in the pan, pressing up the sides about 2 inches.
Step 4: Layer the Pizza
- Spread a thick layer of mozzarella directly on the crust.
- Add crumbled sausage, pepperoni, or veggies.
- Pour sauce over everything, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle Parmesan on top.
Step 5: Bake
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until crust is golden and sauce is bubbling.
- Let it rest 10 minutes before slicing.
And there it is—your first homemade Chicago deep dish pizza. Thick, cheesy, and ridiculously satisfying.
Variations: Other Chicago Pizza Recipes
Chicago isn’t a one-trick pony. Here are two more iconic variations you can master:
1. Chicago Stuffed Pizza
Even deeper than deep dish. Imagine two layers of crust with toppings sandwiched in the middle. The top crust gets covered in tomato sauce. It’s a knife-and-fork affair, perfect for serious pizza lovers.
Pro tip: Roll your dough extra thin for the top layer so it doesn’t get heavy.
2. Chicago Thin Crust Pizza
Surprise! Chicagoans love thin crust too. But theirs isn’t floppy like New York—it’s crisp, cracker-thin, and always cut into squares (aka “tavern style”).
Quick method: Roll dough thin, bake at high heat, and keep toppings light. Perfect for game nights.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Chicago Pizza
- Use the right pan. A seasoned cast iron skillet gives the best crust.
- Don’t overload the sauce. Thick and chunky is key.
- Pre-cook sausage. It ensures you won’t end up with greasy pizza.
- Rest before slicing. This allows cheese and sauce to set—otherwise, you’ll have a delicious mess.
- Experiment with fillings. Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers work beautifully.
FAQ: Chicago Pizza Recipes
Q: Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes, but it will make the crust chewier. All-purpose keeps it more tender, closer to authentic Chicago style.
Q: Is cornmeal necessary in the dough?
Absolutely. It’s what gives the crust that signature texture and flavor.
Q: Can I freeze Chicago pizza dough?
Yes! After the first rise, wrap it tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Q: What’s the difference between deep dish and stuffed pizza?
Stuffed pizza has two layers of crust with toppings inside, while deep dish has one thick crust.
Q: Why is the sauce on top?
It prevents the cheese from burning during the long bake and balances the richness of the pie.
Final Thoughts: Bringing Chicago Home
Making Chicago pizza recipes at home isn’t just about food—it’s about recreating a tradition. That first bite of flaky crust, molten cheese, and tangy tomato sauce is enough to make anyone a believer.
And here’s the thing: once you’ve mastered the basic deep dish, the sky’s the limit. Add your favorite toppings. Play with different cheeses. Try both stuffed and thin crust versions.
At the end of the day, pizza is about joy. It’s about gathering your family around the table, laughing, and sharing a meal that’s equal parts comfort and indulgence.
So next time the craving strikes, skip delivery. Roll up your sleeves, grab your skillet, and bake your own piece of Chicago history.
Buon appetito, friends. 🍕
See Also: Cauliflower Pizza Crust Recipe Vegan | Crispy, Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free
