How to Make the Perfect Deep-Dish Meat Lover’s Pizza at Home

How to Make the Perfect Deep-Dish Meat Lover’s Pizza at Home

Introduction

Craving a hearty, cheesy pizza that’s loaded with flavor? Look no further than this Deep-Dish Meat Lover’s Pizza recipe! With its thick crust, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese layers, this homemade pizza is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Let’s jump into this easy-to-follow recipe and bring the taste of Chicago-style pizza to your table.


Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) warm water
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 pound (225g) ground beef
  • 1/2 pound (225g) Italian sausage, crumbled
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pizza Assembly:

  • 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish


Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, olive oil, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, cooking until browned.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
  3. Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) deep-dish pan with olive oil or cooking spray.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

  1. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit the deep-dish pan, leaving some dough to go up the sides. Press the dough into the pan.
  2. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese evenly over the crust.
  3. Spread the meat sauce over the cheese layer.
  4. Top with the remaining mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese if using.

Step 5: Bake the Pizza

  1. Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
  2. Remove from the oven and let the pizza rest for 5 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

  1. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor.
  2. Slice into wedges and serve hot. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Success

  • For extra flavor, add sliced pepperoni or cooked bacon to the meat sauce.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the sauce.
  • Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven.

Conclusion

This Deep-Dish Meat Lover’s Pizza is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for pizza night. With its thick, crispy crust, savory meat sauce, and gooey layers of cheese, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try this recipe today and enjoy the ultimate comfort food. Don’t forget to share your pizza masterpiece online—happy cooking!

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