Craving a pizza night but tired of takeout? Then get ready to elevate your pizza game with this incredible deep dish pizza recipe, cooked to perfection in a trusty cast iron pan. This recipe is surprisingly easy, even for beginner cooks, and delivers a deliciously crispy crust and a wonderfully gooey interior. Say goodbye to flimsy, underwhelming pizzas and hello to a homemade masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. Get ready for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce:
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Toppings:
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Your favorite pizza toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, peppers, etc.)
Instructions:
Making the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Stir in olive oil, then gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preparing the Sauce:
- While the dough is rising, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Assembling and Baking the Pizza:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place your cast iron skillet inside to preheat as well. This ensures a perfectly crispy crust.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out to fit the bottom and sides of your preheated cast iron skillet. Press the dough firmly into the pan, creating a slightly raised edge.
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the crust, leaving about ½ inch of space around the edge.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Add your desired toppings.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the toppings.
- Carefully transfer the cast iron skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Deep Dish:
- Don't overcrowd the pizza: Too many toppings can make the crust soggy.
- Use good quality cheese: The cheese is a key component of the flavor.
- Preheat your cast iron skillet: This is essential for a crispy crust.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Get creative with your toppings!
Variations:
- Vegetarian Deep Dish: Load it up with your favorite vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions.
- Spicy Deep Dish: Add some chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
- White Garlic Deep Dish: Skip the tomato sauce and use a creamy garlic sauce instead.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on your toppings, but a general estimate for a 1/8th of the pizza is around 400-500 calories, with varying amounts of fat, protein, and carbohydrates. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients.
Enjoy your delicious homemade deep dish pizza! This recipe provides a healthy balance of ease and taste, ensuring a fantastic meal every time. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe guarantees a satisfying and memorable pizza experience. Share your creations and tag us on social media!