If you love deep-dish pizza, try Detroit-style pizza. It has crispy edges, a fluffy inside, and lots of melty cheese. This special pizza style started in the Motor City. Now, it’s popular all over the country. This pizza is different from round pizzas. It is rectangular and thick. It bakes in a steel pan, which makes the crust crispy and chewy. This pizza is a game-changer for pizza lovers. It’s loaded with cheese, rich tomato sauce, and you can add pepperoni if you like.
In this article, we’ll show you how to make Detroit-style pizza at home. You’ll find the ingredients, easy steps, expert tips, and answers to common questions. If you love pizza or want to try a new recipe, this homemade version is sure to please.
Ingredients List
For the Dough:
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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1 1/4 cups warm water
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2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Toppings:
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12 ounces Wisconsin brick cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar), cubed
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1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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15-20 pepperoni slices (optional)
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1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
Timing
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Preparation Time: 20 minutes
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Resting Time: 2 hours
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Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
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Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Step-by-step instructions for Detroit-style pizza.
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
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In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and instant yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
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Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
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Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 2 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
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Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C).
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil.
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Stretch the risen dough into the pan, pushing it to the edges.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Toppings
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Sprinkle the cubed cheese evenly over the dough, ensuring it reaches the edges.
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If using pepperoni, place slices over the cheese.
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Add stripes of pizza sauce on top.
Step 4: Bake the Pizza
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Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
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Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
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Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and dried oregano before serving.
Tips for the Best Detroit-Style Pizza
Use a steel pan – This helps achieve the crispy crust. If you don’t have one, a cast-iron skillet works too.
Let the dough rise properly – A slow rise makes the crust fluffy yet crisp.
Don’t skimp on cheese – More cheese means a better caramelized edge!
Use high heat – Detroit-style pizza bakes best at 500°F for a crispy exterior.
Try different toppings – Pepperoni is a classic choice. Sausage, mushrooms, and jalapeños are great options too.
You can try these different variations
Classic Pepperoni
For a traditional take, use pepperoni slices as your main topping.
Meat Lovers
Add sausage, bacon, and ham for a heartier version.
Veggie Delight
Use mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and olives for a vegetarian twist.
Spicy Kick
Top with jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, and spicy sausage for extra heat.
BBQ Chicken
Swap the pizza sauce for BBQ sauce and use shredded chicken and red onions as toppings.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice)
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Calories: 320
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Carbohydrates: 35g
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Protein: 12g
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Fat: 14g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sodium: 580mg
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes! While homemade dough is best, store-bought dough works well for a quicker option.
2. What makes Detroit-style pizza different?
The crispy cheese edges, thick crust, and the sauce-on-top layering make it unique.
3. What can I use if I don’t have a Detroit-style pizza pan?
A 9×13-inch cake pan or cast-iron skillet can be used as an alternative.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
5. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
Conclusion
Detroit-style pizza is a must-try for pizza lovers. Enjoy crispy cheese edges, a thick crust, and tasty toppings. It’s a delicious homemade option instead of takeout. You can choose classic pepperoni or try new toppings. Either way, this recipe will impress. Give it a try and enjoy a slice of this Detroit favorite right at home.