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Authentic Detroit Deep Dish Pizza with Crispy Edge

A close-up, side view of a thick slice of Detroit style pizza showing the airy crust and caramelized, crispy cheese edge.

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Make the trendy Detroit style pizza at home. This recipe delivers the signature airy crust and deeply caramelized, cheesy edges that make this deep dish famous.

Ingredients

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  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 105-115°F)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 3 1/2 cups bread flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for the pan
  • 1 cup brick cheese, shredded (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)
  • 1 cup Wisconsin brick cheese, cubed
  • 1 1/2 cups crushed tomatoes (high quality)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

  1. Combine the warm water and sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the bread flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth. The dough will be soft.
  4. Lightly coat a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Generously grease a 10×14 inch rectangular steel or heavy-duty baking pan with olive oil. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, stretching it to the corners. Let the dough rest in the pan for 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
  7. Spread the cubed Wisconsin brick cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Top this with the shredded brick cheese blend.
  8. Pour the crushed tomatoes over the cheese layer, spreading them gently to cover the top. Sprinkle with dried oregano.
  9. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The crust should be golden brown.
  10. For the signature crispy edge, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese right up to the edges of the pan during the last 5 minutes of baking, allowing it to caramelize against the hot metal.
  11. Remove from the oven and let the pizza rest in the pan for 5 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Using brick cheese is key for the authentic flavor and texture. If you cannot find it, use a mix of whole milk mozzarella and mild cheddar for the best melt.
  • The high oven temperature helps create the airy interior and crispy bottom crust.
  • This recipe makes a great homemade pizza party centerpiece.

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