Thick, pillowy crust with golden edges, smothered in rich tomato sauce and gooey melted mozzarella — this Homemade Deep-Dish Cheese Pizza brings classic comfort straight from the oven with a soft, chewy bite and a perfectly bubbly top. It’s the ultimate indulgence for pizza lovers who crave a thick crust and a generous layer of cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This deep-dish cheese pizza offers everything a satisfying pizza should: a crisp yet fluffy crust, a flavorful homemade tomato sauce, and a melty blanket of cheese that stretches with every slice. It’s easy to prepare at home and bakes beautifully in round pans or cast-iron skillets. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or treating yourself to a weekend feast, this recipe delivers restaurant-style results in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:
all-purpose flour
sugar
active dry yeast
salt
warm water (110°F / 43°C)
olive oil

For the pizza sauce:
olive oil
garlic cloves, minced
crushed tomatoes
dried oregano
red pepper flakes (optional)
salt and pepper

For the toppings:
shredded mozzarella cheese
grated Parmesan cheese
fresh basil leaves (optional)
olive oil for brushing crust

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Stir in the flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
4. While the dough rises, prepare the sauce. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes until thickened. Set aside.
6. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Generously grease two 9-inch round baking pans or cast-iron skillets with olive oil.
7. Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Press each portion into the pans, pushing the dough up the sides to create a deep-dish edge.
8. Spoon the sauce evenly over each crust. Top with mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake for 18–22 minutes until the crust is golden and crisp and the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned.
10. Let cool for 5 minutes, then slice and serve hot. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes 2 9-inch pizzas (4–6 servings)
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Rise Time: 1.5 hours
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Three-Cheese Version: Add provolone and fontina alongside mozzarella for extra richness.
• Stuffed Crust: Line the edges with string cheese before folding over the dough to seal.
• Add Toppings: Include sautéed mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, olives, or cooked sausage or pepperoni under the cheese layer.
• Whole Wheat Crust: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce or cheese layer.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pizza slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the crust soggy. The baked pizzas can also be frozen for up to 1 month; reheat directly from frozen in a hot oven for best results.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Let it come to room temperature before using.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely. While homemade dough yields the best results, quality store-bought dough is a convenient option.

What type of pan should I use for deep-dish pizza?

Cast-iron skillets or deep 9-inch round cake pans work best for this recipe.

Can I make just one large pizza instead of two?

Yes, press all the dough into a large deep-dish pizza pan and adjust the baking time as needed.

What’s the best cheese for deep-dish pizza?

Low-moisture shredded mozzarella melts evenly and browns nicely. Parmesan adds depth and sharpness.

Do I need to pre-bake the crust?

No, the crust bakes fully along with the toppings in this recipe due to the high oven temperature and thick dough.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend that’s designed for yeast doughs and follow the same steps.

How do I know when the pizza is done?

The crust should be golden brown, and the cheese should be melted and slightly browned in spots.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and divide the dough among four pans or bake in batches.

What can I do with leftover sauce?

Use it as a dipping sauce for the crust or save it for pasta, sandwiches, or another pizza night.

Conclusion

Homemade Deep-Dish Cheese Pizza delivers everything you crave in a hearty, comforting slice — thick crust, robust sauce, and gooey cheese all baked to perfection. It’s an ideal dish for pizza nights, gatherings, or anytime you want a satisfying meal that feels both classic and indulgent. Once you try this easy homemade version, takeout won’t be the same again.

Print