Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Deep Dish Pizza

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Asma
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

A hearty, cheesy deep dish pizza filled with savory sausage, gooey mozzarella, and a rich homemade sauce—perfect for family dinners or pizza night!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Dough:

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornmeal
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp active dry yeast
  • 3/4 cup warm water
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Filling:

  • 1 lb Italian sausage, crumbled
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, salt, and sugar.
  2. Dissolve yeast in warm water in a small bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes.
  3. Add olive oil to the yeast mixture, then stir into the dry ingredients.
  4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

  1. Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned.
  2. Drain excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Roll out the dough and press it into a deep dish pizza pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides.
  3. Layer mozzarella cheese on the bottom, then spread ricotta cheese evenly.
  4. Add the cooked sausage, spoon marinara sauce over the top, and sprinkle Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
  5. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, if desired.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Bake the pizza for 30–35 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
  2. Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Pair with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy with family and friends!

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute sausage with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach.
  • Cornmeal in the dough adds texture and a signature deep dish flavor—don’t skip it!
  • Leftovers can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes for a crispy crust.