Detroit pizza
Detroit-Style Pizza Recipe: Crispy, Cheesy, and Delicious
Detroit-style pizza is a beloved deep-dish pizza known for its thick, airy crust, caramelized cheese edges, and a unique sauce-on-top layering method. Originating from Detroit in the 1940s, this pizza style is traditionally made in a rectangular pan, allowing the dough to develop a crispy yet fluffy texture. Whether you’re a pizza enthusiast or a first-time baker, this homemade Detroit-style pizza recipe will guide you to make the perfect slice from scratch.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 tbsp sugar
1 1/4 cups warm water
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
For the Sauce:
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp sugar
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (preferably whole milk)
1 1/2 cups shredded Wisconsin brick cheese (for authenticity)
1/2 cup pepperoni slices (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
Add olive oil, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form.
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise for about an hour or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, followed by oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper.
Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza
Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
Generously grease a 10×14-inch rectangular baking pan with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Punch down the risen dough and stretch it to fit the pan, ensuring it reaches the edges.
Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough, followed by the shredded Wisconsin brick cheese, making sure the cheese reaches the edges. This will create the signature caramelized crust.
Spoon the prepared sauce in thick lines or dollops over the cheese, following the traditional Detroit-style layering method.
If using pepperoni, you can place the slices on top before or after baking.
Step 4: Bake the Pizza
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the edges are golden brown.
If the cheese is browning too quickly, loosely cover the pizza with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes.
Using a spatula, carefully loosen the edges and lift the pizza out of the pan.
Cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your homemade Detroit-style pizza!
Tips for the Perfect Detroit-Style Pizza
Use Authentic Cheese: Wisconsin brick cheese is the key to the best flavor and texture. If unavailable, a mix of mozzarella and mild cheddar can be used as a substitute.
Proper Pan Selection: Traditionally, Detroit-style pizza is made in a blue steel pan. However, a well-greased, dark-colored metal baking pan works great too.
Achieve Crispy Edges: To get that perfect caramelized crust, ensure that the cheese is spread all the way to the edges of the pan.
Let the Dough Rise Properly: Allowing the dough to fully rise will create the airy and chewy texture that defines Detroit-style pizza.
Customize Toppings: While pepperoni is a classic topping, feel free to experiment with mushrooms, green peppers, sausage, or even jalapeños.
Variations and Customizations
Extra Crispy Crust: For an even crispier crust, preheat the pan in the oven for a few minutes before adding the dough.
Garlic Butter Crust: Brush melted garlic butter on the crust edges before baking for added flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle them on top for a bit of heat.
Vegetarian Version: Swap the pepperoni for mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers for a delicious meat-free alternative.
Storage and Reheating
Detroit-style pizza stores well and can be easily reheated for later enjoyment.
Refrigeration: Store leftover pizza slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Detroit-style pizza is a unique and delicious take on traditional deep-dish pizza. With its thick, airy crust, crispy cheese edges, and flavorful sauce, it’s a must-try for any pizza lover. Making it at home allows you to customize the ingredients to your taste and enjoy a fresh, homemade version of this classic dish. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or indulging in a solo pizza night, this recipe will bring the flavors of Detroit right into your kitchen.
Give this recipe a try and savor the iconic taste of homemade Detroit-style pizza!