World Flavors Cookbook

Chicago Deep-Dish Cheese

A massive, "upside-down" pizza with a buttery, biscuit-like cornmeal crust, a thick layer of mozzarella, and chunky tomato sauce on top.

Cuisine: United States

Ingredients

• Dough: 3 cups flour, 1/2 cup cornmeal, 1/2 cup butter, 1 tsp yeast
• 1 lb mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
• 2 cups chunky crushed tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• Italian sausage (optional)

Instructions

1. Press the buttery dough into a deep, round cake pan, pushing it up the sides.
2. Layer the mozzarella cheese directly on the crust (this prevents the crust from getting soggy).
3. Add toppings like sausage if using.
4. Pour the thick, seasoned tomato sauce over the cheese.
5. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 35-40 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing; this is a knife-and-fork pizza.