Deep-Pan Delight: A Classic Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

Indulge in the iconic flavors of the Windy City's most famous culinary creation with this Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza recipe. This dish, known for its thick and buttery crust, is loaded with layers of savory cheese, rich tomato sauce, and a hearty mix of toppings that'll satisfy even the most discerning of pizza lovers. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this deep-dish pizza will quickly become a household favorite.

### **Ingredients:**

#### Crust:2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast1 1/2 cups lukewarm water3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour1/2 cup yellow cornmeal1/4 cup vegetable oil1 teaspoon sugar1 teaspoon salt

#### Filling:3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese1/2 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled1 green bell pepper, chopped1 small onion, finely chopped1 cup sliced mushrooms1/2 cup sliced black olives3 cups crushed tomatoes2 cloves garlic, minced1 teaspoon dried oregano1 teaspoon dried basil1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheeseSalt and pepper to taste

### **Instructions:**

### Prepare the Dough:1. In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in the lukewarm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil.3. Stir until the dough begins to come together, then knead for about 5-7 minutes on a floured surface until the dough is smooth and elastic.4. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

### Prepare the Filling:1. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by cooking and crumbling the Italian sausage.2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped bell pepper, onion, mushrooms, and minced garlic until they are tender. Add the Italian sausage, black olives, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.

### Assemble the Pizza:1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).2. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a large circle, about 14 inches in diameter.3. Grease a 12-inch deep-dish pizza pan or cast-iron skillet with vegetable oil. Carefully transfer the dough to the pan, pressing it into the edges and up the sides.4. Layer the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough.5. Add the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture on top of the cheese layer.6. Pour the crushed tomatoes over the filling and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

### Bake the Pizza:1. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.2. Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your homemade Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza, and savor each delicious bite of this deep-pan delight!