HOMEMADE CHICAGO STYLE DEEP DISH PIZZA

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, and salt.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough comes together.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
5. Let Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. Cook Onions and Garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 20-25 minutes, until thickened. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare Pan: Grease a 12-inch deep-dish pizza pan or a cast-iron skillet with the olive oil.
3. Roll Out Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough out into a large circle, about 14 inches in diameter.
4. Fit Dough into Pan: Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to the prepared pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
5. Layer the Cheese and Sausage: Arrange the mozzarella cheese slices or shredded cheese evenly over the bottom of the crust. Spread the cooked and crumbled Italian sausage over the cheese.
6. Add Sauce: Pour the tomato sauce over the sausage and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

1. Bake: Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
2. Cool: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Serve

1. Slice and Serve: Slice the deep-dish pizza into wedges and serve hot. Enjoy the cheesy, saucy, and savory layers of deliciousness!

Tips for Perfect Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza:

• Cheese First: Layering the cheese first helps to prevent the crust from getting soggy from the sauce.
• Variations: Customize your pizza with your favorite toppings such as pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
• Make Ahead: You can make the dough and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to assemble and bake the pizza.
• Dough Rising: Ensure the dough rises in a warm, draft-free place to achieve the best texture.

Enjoy your homemade Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, and savor the authentic taste of this classic dish!