Introduction
If you enjoy a thick-crust pizza with plenty of cheese and juicy meat, this deep-dish meat lover’s pizza is the perfect choice. Inspired by the iconic Chicago pizza style, this culinary delight features a buttery, golden crust, a rich and spiced tomato sauce, and a generous combination of ground beef, pepperoni, and melted cheese.
Each slice is packed with intense flavors and irresistible textures, making this pizza the ideal choice for a family dinner, a special weekend, or a get-together with friends.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
3 cups wheat flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons melted butter
For the Meat Filling:
1 pound ground beef
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2
teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Sauce:
1 cup crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, olive oil, and melted butter.
Add the yeast mixture and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
Cover with a cloth and let it sit for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Cook the Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
Add the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
Cook for 5-7 minutes, stir well, and drain off any excess fat. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce
: In a saucepan, heat the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper over medium heat.
Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Assemble the pizza
Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
Grease a deep dish and press the dough evenly onto the bottom and sides.
Add a layer of mozzarella cheese, then the cooked ground beef.
Pour the tomato sauce over the beef and spread evenly.
Top with pepperoni slices, jalapeños, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake and serve
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve hot and enjoy an authentic deep dish pizza!
Conclusion
This meat lover’s deep dish pizza is a true gastronomic experience. Its crispy outside and soft inside crust, combined with the melted cheese, spicy pepperoni, and seasoned beef, make every bite a delight.
Whether for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this recipe will make you feel like you’re enjoying authentic Chicago-style pizza at home. Go ahead and try it and surprise everyone with this culinary delight!