The eternal quest for the perfect pizza recipe has led many a food enthusiast down a winding road of experimentation and discovery. And when it comes to deep dish pizzas, there’s no shortage of creative combinations that can tantalize the taste buds. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 irresistibly delicious cheesy deep dish pizza recipes that will transport your palate to a world of gooey goodness.
From classic Chicago-style deep dish pizzas to more adventurous creations like vegan cashew cheese and BBQ chicken, each recipe promises to deliver a satisfying and filling meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to dive into the world of cheesy delights!
Classic Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza
Chicago-style deep dish pizza is a beloved classic that’s both rich and satisfying. This recipe brings the authentic taste of Chicago to your kitchen with its thick crust, chunky filling, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Filling:
+ 1 pound ground beef
+ 1 onion, finely chopped
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
+ 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
+ 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add butter and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until dough comes together.
4. Roll out dough into a thick circle, about 1/4 inch deep.
5. Spread filling ingredients evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Deep Dish Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this creamy, cheesy, and savory Spinach and Artichoke Deep Dish Pizza!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup spinach and artichoke dip (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread spinach and artichoke dip evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the dip.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush egg wash over the crust to give it a golden brown color.
7. Place pizza on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Meat Lover’s Deep Dish Pizza
Bring the excitement of a Chicago-style deep dish pizza to your next gathering with this hearty, meat-filled masterpiece.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni
– 1/2 cup sliced Italian sausage
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 deep dish pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, pepperoni, and Italian sausage until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Roll out the pizza crust and place in a deep dish pizza pan.
4. Arrange the cooked meat mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
6. Brush the crust with beaten egg and season with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegan Deep Dish Pizza with Cashew Cheese
Experience the classic flavors of deep dish pizza without the dairy! This recipe uses a cashew-based cheese substitute to create a creamy, dreamy sauce that complements the rich flavors of garlic, oregano, and tomato.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch deep-dish pizza crust
– 1 cup cooked cashews
– 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the cashew cheese by blending cooked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano until smooth.
3. Roll out the pizza crust and place it in a deep-dish pie dish.
4. Spread the cashew cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
5. Top with diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Chicken Deep Dish Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this unique twist on a classic favorite. Sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, juicy chicken, and melted mozzarella come together for a flavor explosion that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken and onion until cooked through.
4. Spread BBQ sauce over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Top with chicken mixture, garlic, and mozzarella cheese.
6. Sprinkle oregano and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Margherita Deep Dish Pizza with Fresh Basil
This classic Italian-inspired deep dish pizza gets a fresh twist with the addition of fragrant basil leaves, creating a flavorful and visually appealing treat. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch deep-dish pie crust
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a deep-dish pizza pan.
3. Spread the crushed tomatoes over the crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the tomato sauce.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the cheese.
6. Top with chopped fresh basil leaves.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pepperoni and Mushroom Deep Dish Pizza
A classic combination of flavors comes together in this hearty deep dish pizza recipe, featuring savory pepperoni and earthy mushrooms in a thick crust. This satisfying meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup pepperoni slices
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or button)
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Place dough in a deep-dish pizza pan or a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Arrange pepperoni slices and mushroom slices on the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
6. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sausage and Peppers Deep Dish Pizza
This hearty pizza combines the flavors of Italian sausage and roasted peppers with a crispy deep dish crust, perfect for a satisfying dinner or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 2 onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add peppers and onions to the skillet; cook until tender.
5. Brush crust with olive oil and spread cooked sausage mixture evenly.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Four Cheese Deep Dish Pizza
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this rich and satisfying Four Cheese Deep Dish Pizza recipe. With a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.1 oz) package deep-dish pizza crust mix
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated provolone cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare the deep-dish crust mix according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses.
4. Add heavy cream and beaten egg to the cheese mixture; stir until well combined.
5. Pour the cheese mixture into the prepared deep-dish crust.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Deep Dish Pizza
Get ready to level up your pizza game with this spicy and savory Buffalo Chicken Deep Dish Pizza! This recipe combines the comfort of a classic deep dish pizza with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 lb cooked chicken, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together ranch dressing and buffalo wing sauce.
4. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Medley Deep Dish Pizza
A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional deep dish pizza, this recipe combines a variety of sautéed vegetables with melted mozzarella cheese and flaky crust. Perfect for vegetarians and veggie lovers alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 package deep dish pizza crust
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, zucchini, etc.)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the deep dish pizza crust and place in a greased 9-inch springform pan.
3. Sauté the mixed vegetables in olive oil until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly over the pizza crust.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the vegetables.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hawaiian Deep Dish Pizza with Pineapple and Ham
Elevate your pizza game with this unique Hawaiian-inspired twist on the classic deep dish pizza. Sweet and savory, this recipe combines the flavors of juicy pineapple and salty ham for a truly tropical treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup diced ham
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, diced ham, chopped pineapple, and red onion.
4. Spread the mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Deep Dish Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this mouthwatering combination of succulent shrimp, garlic butter, and crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup garlic butter (see note)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Spread garlic butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Arrange shrimp on top of the garlic butter, slightly overlapping each other.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the shrimp.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Note: To make garlic butter, mix softened butter with minced garlic (about 2 cloves) until well combined.
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Deep Dish Pizza
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Italy with the comfort of a deep-dish pizza, featuring creamy pesto and sweet sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a quick dinner or gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Spread the pesto evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella cheese on top of the pesto.
5. Drizzle the Parmesan cheese and beaten egg over the pizza.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon and Egg Breakfast Deep Dish Pizza
Start your day with a twist on traditional breakfast and pizza by combining the flavors of crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and melted mozzarella cheese into one delicious deep dish pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made deep dish pizza crust
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the deep dish pizza crust and place it on a baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Scramble in a skillet over medium heat until cooked through.
4. Sprinkle crumbled bacon and shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the crust.
5. Top with scrambled eggs and grated cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño and Chorizo Deep Dish Pizza
This bold and spicy pizza combines the flavors of chorizo sausage with crispy jalapeños, melted mozzarella cheese, and a crunchy crust. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup chorizo sausage, sliced
– 4-6 jalapeños, sliced
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough and place in a deep dish pan.
3. Spread tomato sauce over the crust, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Top with chorizo sausage, jalapeños, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Sauce and Mushroom Deep Dish Pizza
This recipe combines the flavors of creamy white sauce, sautéed mushrooms, and melted mozzarella cheese in a deep dish pizza crust. Perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup white sauce (see below)
– 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
White Sauce:
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the white sauce by melting butter in a pan, then whisking in flour and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
3. In a separate pan, sauté mushrooms with salt and pepper until tender.
4. Roll out pizza dough to fit a deep dish pizza pan.
5. Spread white sauce over the crust, leaving a small border. Top with sautéed mushrooms and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Deep Dish Pizza
Experience the rich flavors of caramelized onions and tangy goat cheese in a deep dish pizza that’s sure to please. This recipe combines the best of both worlds with a flaky crust, sweet onions, and creamy cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the mixture; mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough into a deep dish crust shape.
5. Caramelize the onions with garlic over medium heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Top the crust with caramelized onions, goat cheese, and honey.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Taco-Inspired Deep Dish Pizza with Ground Beef
A twist on traditional deep dish pizza, this recipe combines the flavors of a taco with the comfort of a hearty pie. Perfect for a unique dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.1 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded cheddar cheese, for serving
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Add onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch deep-dish pizza pan. Fill with meat mixture and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chocolate Dessert Deep Dish Pizza with Berries
Transform the classic pizza into a decadent dessert with this unique recipe that combines the richness of chocolate with the sweetness of berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, eggs, and granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Press dough into a 9-inch deep-dish pizza pan or a round cake pan.
7. Arrange berries on top of the dough.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until crust is set and edges are slightly golden.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate cheesy goodness! This article brings you 20 irresistibly delicious deep dish pizza recipes that will satisfy any craving. From classic Chicago-style to vegan and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at Spinach and Artichoke Deep Dish Pizza, Meat Lover’s Deep Dish Pizza, or one of the many other mouthwatering combinations. Whether you’re a cheese lover, meat enthusiast, or just looking for a unique twist, these recipes are sure to impress.
