Classic Midwestern Recipes Everyone Should Make

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Deep Dish Pizza

This homemade version of one of Chicago's most famous dishes is baked in a cast iron skillet and features a thick, buttery crust that’s perfectly crispy and baked to golden perfection. Layered with gooey mozzarella cheese, your favorite toppings, this pizza is a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy night in, it brings the classic flavors of Chicago-style deep dish right to your kitchen!

Ingredients (for one 9” pizza):

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 tsp sugar
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp salt

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp  dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Toppings:

• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 min. until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil, and stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 min. until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent in about 5 min.
6. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 min. until fragrant.
7. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 20 min., stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
8. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
9. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll out the dough to fit your cast iron skillet, making sure it goes up the sides to form a deep crust.
10. Grease your cast iron skillet with a bit of vegetable oil and carefully place the rolled-out dough into the skillet, pressing it into the corners and up the sides.
11. Layer half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on the bottom of the crust. Add the cooked Italian sausage, sliced pepperoni, bell pepper, and black olives.
12. Pour the prepared sauce over the toppings, spreading it evenly.
13. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
14. Bake for about 30-35 min., or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
15. Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving, and enjoy!