Deep Dish Chicago Pizza
A hearty deep dish Chicago pizza featuring savory Italian sausage, melted mozzarella, and rich tomato sauce, perfect for satisfying pizza lovers craving bold flavors and thick crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 10-inch skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage links with 1/4 cup water until boiling.
- Cover and simmer the sausages for 5 minutes.
- Remove the cover and continue cooking the sausages for an additional 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5-10 minutes before adding toppings. You can substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey or a vegetarian sausage for lighter options. If you don’t have hot roll mix, you can make your own dough using flour, yeast, and water. Fresh herbs can enhance flavor if available, so consider using fresh basil instead of dried.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Deep Dish Chicago Pizza with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light Italian vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pizza. Pair it with a robust red wine, such as Chianti, for an authentic experience. For a fun twist, try it with sides like the Porky Pie Casserole for a hearty feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, ensuring the crust stays crispy. Avoid microwaving to prevent a soggy crust.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deep Dish Chicago Pizza contains roughly 278 calories, with 17g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (203% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (128% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (102% of the Daily Value). At about 278 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature before rolling it out. This will make it easier to work with and help it rise better.
What type of cheese works best for this pizza?
While mozzarella is traditional, you can mix it up with provolone or fontina for added flavor. Combining different cheeses can enhance the richness of the pizza. Just ensure that you use a cheese that melts well to achieve that gooey texture.
Can I freeze this pizza?
Yes, you can freeze the pizza before baking. Assemble it fully, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, remove from the freezer, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, and bake as usual.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).