If you’ve ever craved serious comfort food, nothing quite compares to sinking your fork into a warm, savory Deep-Dish Pizza Pie. Overflowing with gooey mozzarella, rich tomato sauce, and layers of golden crust, this Chicago-inspired masterpiece is the ultimate way to bring friends and family together around the table. It’s surprisingly easy to make at home, and each slice delivers a mouthful of nostalgia and big, bold flavors. Trust me, after your first bite, you’ll understand why Deep-Dish Pizza Pie is a perennial favorite in my kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie irresistible is how it transforms simple pantry staples into layers of flavor and texture. Every ingredient here matters, from the cornmeal-laced crust to the generous heap of cheeses and that homemade, herby sauce.
- Active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons): This gives your crust a beautiful rise and the classic airy bite.
- Warm water (1 ½ cups, 110°F): The right temperature helps activate the yeast for a perfect dough foundation.
- Sugar (2 teaspoons): Just a touch to feed the yeast and create a balanced flavor in the crust.
- All-purpose flour (3 ½ cups): Pantry staple that forms the sturdy base of your pizza pie crust.
- Yellow cornmeal (½ cup): Adds a signature color, hint of crunch, and really sets this crust apart.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Brings out the dough’s flavor and balances the toppings.
- Olive oil (¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon): Keeps the dough tender and is used for sautéing the filling.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Used for greasing the pan and adds a hint of richness to the crust edges.
- Italian sausage (1 pound, cooked & crumbled): Makes for a hearty, savory layer.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Sautéed onion gives depth and a natural sweetness to the tomato sauce.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Adds bold, aromatic flavor to the savory filling.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded): The star of the cheese layer, ensuring every bite is irresistibly melty.
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): Adds a salty, tangy finish on top.
- Crushed tomatoes (1 28-ounce can): The base for your rich, herby sauce.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Brings that classic pizzeria flavor to your sauce.
- Red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): For a little heat, if you want it!
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season everything just right.
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish): Brightens each slice with a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Deep-Dish Pizza Pie
Step 1: Make the Dough
Begin by dissolving the yeast and sugar in warm water in a large mixing bowl. Wait for it to become foamy, which takes about 5 to 10 minutes—this is your sign that the yeast is alive and ready to make magic happen! Add the flour, cornmeal, salt, and olive oil, then mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 7 to 8 minutes until it feels smooth and bouncy, letting your hands work their way into that classic pillowy crust. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 hour—this step is non-negotiable for that signature height.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the dough rises, it’s the perfect time to prep your filling. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet, then toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 4 minutes until it softens and sweetens. Add the minced garlic, letting it sizzle for 30 seconds for maximum aroma. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, optional red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, then let the mixture simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes to thicken and deepen in flavor—this sauce will coat every cheesy bite beautifully. Meanwhile, brown and crumble your Italian sausage, making sure it’s cooked through and golden.
Step 3: Assemble the Deep-Dish Pizza Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Generously grease a 9-inch deep-dish pizza pan or cake pan with butter and a drizzle of olive oil—don’t skip this, it gives you that gorgeously crispy crust edge! Once the dough has doubled, gently press it into the base and up the sides of your pan, making a deep well perfect for all those fillings. Layer the bottom with shredded mozzarella cheese (this prevents sogginess), scatter in the cooked sausage, and spoon that dreamy tomato sauce over it all. Finish with a shower of grated Parmesan cheese on top for a golden, flavorful crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop your assembled Deep-Dish Pizza Pie into the hot oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The result? A bubbly, golden filling with a crust that’s deeply golden and sturdy enough to stand tall. Once baked, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This short wait is the hardest part but ensures neat slices that hold together beautifully when served.
How to Serve Deep-Dish Pizza Pie
Garnishes
For that picture-perfect finish, sprinkle your Deep-Dish Pizza Pie with fresh basil leaves or a little extra grated Parmesan right before serving. The fresh herbs add a gorgeous hit of color and a burst of flavor, while a touch more cheese gives you an irresistible, melty crown.
Side Dishes
Deep-Dish Pizza Pie is exceptionally hearty, so I love to keep side dishes light and refreshing. Try serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a simple antipasto platter with roasted peppers, olives, and marinated artichokes. These sides create the perfect balance and let your pizza pie be the star.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, cut the Deep-Dish Pizza Pie into small squares and serve them appetizer-style on a platter with little toothpicks. Or, serve each slice with a dollop of ricotta or an extra drizzle of good olive oil. Arranging fresh basil leaves in a fan pattern on top also adds an elegant touch that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftover Deep-Dish Pizza Pie, simply wrap slices tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then chill in an airtight container. The sturdy crust and solid layers reheat surprisingly well and will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This recipe is freezer-friendly! Once cooled, wrap slices of Deep-Dish Pizza Pie tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat straight from frozen as detailed below.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat slices in a 375°F oven on a baking sheet (preferably lined with parchment) for about 10 to 15 minutes. This crisps the crust right back up and keeps the cheese gooey. A microwave works in a pinch, but you risk a softer crust—always choose the oven when you can!
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough, cover it, and let it rise overnight in the fridge. Bring it back to room temperature before shaping and baking your Deep-Dish Pizza Pie the next day.
What are some vegetarian filling options?
If you’re skipping the sausage, substitute with sautéed mushrooms, roasted peppers, spinach, or even sliced artichokes. You can mix and match—Deep-Dish Pizza Pie is incredibly flexible!
Can I use a different cheese?
While mozzarella is classic for melt and flavor, you can add provolone, fontina, or even a little smoked gouda for mild twists. Just be sure to keep mozzarella as the primary base for authenticity.
How can I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Layering the cheese first creates a barrier that keeps the crust crisp underneath everything else. Also, make sure your sauce is nice and thick before assembling your Deep-Dish Pizza Pie.
Do I need a special pan for Deep-Dish Pizza Pie?
If you don’t have a deep-dish pizza pan, a 9-inch cake pan with straight sides works beautifully! Just be generous with greasing, so every slice releases easily.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing more satisfying than sharing a homemade Deep-Dish Pizza Pie with the people you love. With its flaky, golden crust, cheesy layers, and savory, rich filling, this recipe guarantees smiles around the dinner table. Invite someone over and dig in—you’ll be so glad you made it from scratch!
Print
Deep-Dish Pizza Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Deep-Dish Pizza Pie recipe. A hearty, Chicago-style pizza with a thick crust, savory sausage, gooey cheese, and a zesty tomato sauce.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup olive oil (plus more for greasing)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (cooked and crumbled)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Dough Preparation: Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit until foamy. Add flour, cornmeal, salt, and olive oil. Knead until elastic. Let rise for 1 hour.
- Filling: Cook onion in olive oil until soft. Add garlic, tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Assembly: Press dough into greased pan. Layer mozzarella, sausage, tomato sauce, and Parmesan. Bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes.
- Serve: Let cool before slicing. Garnish with basil if desired.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, swap sausage for sautéed mushrooms or veggies.
- Dough can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 1 hour rise time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
