I’m so excited to share with you my favorite deep dish pizza cast iron recipe that’s been a staple in our household for years. This recipe is a classic from the Midwest, specifically from Chicago, where it originated.
The thick crust and chunky tomato sauce make it a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. My kids love helping me make this pizza from scratch, and it’s become a fun family activity that we all look forward to.
The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Plus, the cast iron skillet adds a nice crispy crust to the pizza that’s hard to achieve with traditional baking methods.
I’ve experimented with various toppings over the years, but the classic combination of mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, and fresh basil leaves is still my go-to favorite. My family loves this recipe because it’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to customize to our tastes.
We often have leftovers for days after making this pizza, which is always a bonus when you’re feeding a crowd. One of the health benefits of this recipe is that it uses a whole wheat crust instead of refined flour, which makes it a bit healthier than traditional pizzas.
Cast Iron Deep Dish Pizza
4.5 from 518 votes
This deep dish pizza is baked in a cast iron skillet, resulting in a thick, buttery crust with a crispy exterior and a soft, tender interior. Loaded with a rich tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, and your favorite toppings, it is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for a cozy dinner.
Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, sausage, bell peppers, onions)
👨🍳Directions
1In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt.
2Add the warm water and olive oil, then stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, then shape it into a ball.
4Coat the inside of a 10-inch cast iron skillet with a thin layer of olive oil.
5Place the dough ball in the center of the skillet and press it outwards with your fingers, covering the bottom and about 1 inch up the sides.
6Cover the skillet with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 20 minutes.
7While the dough rises, make the sauce by heating olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
8Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, and salt.
9Simmer the sauce on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
10Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
11After the dough has risen, spread the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, making sure to reach the edges.
12Add your desired toppings over the cheese, then pour the prepared tomato sauce over the top, spreading it gently to cover the toppings.
13Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
14Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned at the edges.
15The internal temperature of the pizza should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
16Carefully remove the skillet from the oven using oven mitts and let the pizza rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
17Use a spatula to lift the pizza out of the skillet, then cut into wedges and serve hot.
For a crispier crust, preheat the cast iron skillet in the oven for 10 minutes before adding the dough. You can also use a store-bought pizza dough to save time, but the homemade version gives a better texture. Feel free to customize the toppings to your preference, and ensure the cheese is fully melted and the crust is deeply golden before serving.
Watch Video Of How Cast Iron Deep Dish Pizza Works
This deep dish pizza cast iron recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too. It’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a delicious meal for yourself.
One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its flexibility – you can customize it with various toppings and cheeses to suit your tastes. When storing leftovers, simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate or freeze until ready to reheat.
Reheating instructions vary depending on your preference; some like reheating individual slices in the microwave while others prefer warming up larger portions in the oven.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cast Iron Deep Dish Pizza
Q: What type of pan should I use for this recipe?
A: You can use either a 10-inch cast iron skillet or a 9×13 inch baking dish for this recipe. Both will produce an amazing crust and flavor. If using a cast iron skillet, make sure to preheat it in the oven before adding the dough to ensure even cooking.
Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead of making my own?
A: While store-bought dough can save you time, I highly recommend making your own dough from scratch for the best results. Homemade dough allows you to control the ingredients and texture, which makes all the difference in achieving that perfect deep dish crust.
Q: How do I prevent the crust from burning during baking?
A: To prevent burning, make sure to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and keep an eye on the crust during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. You can also cover the edges with foil if they start to brown too quickly.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to bake. Just thaw and let rise as needed before topping and baking.
Q: What are some recommended toppings for this deep dish pizza?
A: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Some popular options include artichoke hearts, roasted bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, olives, or even shrimp for added flavor and texture.
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