Chicago Deep Dish Pizza: A Cheesy, Buttery Cornmeal Crust Masterpiece

Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza for Dinner

This Chicago deep dish pizza is a hearty, saucy, cheese-packed masterpiece that starts with a rich, buttery cornmeal crust. From the first slice to the last, your taste buds will savor every cheesy bite and tomatoey layer of this iconic U.S. American classic.

Ingredients for Your Deep Dish Pizza Crust & Toppings

• 1.33 cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 cup fine yellow cornmeal
• 3½ cups all-purpose flour, plus extra as needed
• 2 cups homemade or store-bought pizza sauce
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded provolone or Italian blend cheese
• 2 tablespoons melted butter, for brushing
• Fresh basil or dried oregano (optional garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Craft the Perfect Deep Dish Pizza

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, pour in the warm water and sprinkle yeast. Let sit until dissolved, about 10 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, melted butter, sugar, salt, and cornmeal. Mix on low speed. Gradually add 3½ cups flour, reserving extra for dusting.
3. Switch to the dough hook and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 5–7 minutes. If it’s sticky, add flour a tablespoon at a time.
4. Transfer dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
5. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Punch down the dough and press it into a 12-inch deep dish or cast-iron skillet, creating a 1-inch lip around the edges.
6. Layer half of the cheese on the bottom, followed by all of the sauce, then the remaining cheese. Sprinkle grated Parmesan and provolone on top.
7. Brush the crust edge with melted butter. Bake until the crust is golden-brown and the cheese is bubbly, about 25–30 minutes.
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or oregano, and serve hot.

Tips for Next-Level Deep Dish Pizza

• Chill your skillet: A cold pan helps create a crispy crust when it hits the hot oven.
• Layer in reverse: Cheese first, sauce second keeps the crust from getting soggy.
• Herb infusion: Mix dried oregano into the dough for extra flavor.
• Rest before cutting: Allows the molten cheese to settle, giving you clean slices.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 613 kcal | Carbs: 53 g | Protein: 25 g | Total Fat: 32 g (Sat Fat 14 g) | Sodium: 1487 mg | Fiber: 3 g | Sugar: 5 g | Cholesterol: 75 mg

Why You’ll Love This Classic Deep Dish Pizza

This Chicago deep dish pizza blends indulgent layers of cheese, tangy tomato sauce, and a rich cornmeal crust that’s perfect for gatherings, game nights, or cozy family dinners. The buttery base and three-cheese blanket make each slice an unforgettable bite. Enjoy the ultimate deep dish pizza.