Do you like thick and fluffy pizza with an extremely crispy crust? If so, then you absolutely must try making Detroit-style pizza at home! This mouth-watering pizza is easy to make and always impresses your dinner guests.
The secret to the perfect crust is all in the dough, which takes just minutes to prepare. Once the dough is ready, add your favorite pizza toppings and bake it perfectly. Trust us, after one bite of this delicious Detroit pizza, you’ll never want to order delivery again!
What Is Detroit-Style Pizza?
Detroit-style pizza is a distinct variety characterized by its deep dish, square shape, and preparation in a rectangular steel pan.
The unique dough for this pizza boasts a high hydration level, resulting in a delightful contrast when baked. The center becomes bubbly and fluffy, while the edges turn crispy and golden, especially where the cheese melts.
In its most authentic form, Detroit pizza features cubes of Wisconsin brick cheese as a key topping, complemented by a modest amount of pizza sauce.
However, we’ve also included instructions for making Detroit-style pizza in a standard 9×13 metal baking pan, using freshly shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring everyone can savor this delectable creation!
More Detroit Like Pizza Recipe
Detroit-Style Pizza Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious pizza recipe, try this Detroit-style pizza. It has a crispy crust, loads of cheese, and a flavor reminiscent of slightly charred, thin-crust pizza. The texture is light and airy, like a focaccia. The crust edges get wonderfully crunchy, creating a unique and satisfying eating experience.
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough
- 1 cup and half lukewarm water
- ½ teaspoon instant yeast
- 2 ½ cups bread flour
- One teaspoon of ground sea salt
Toppings
- 3/4 cup Pizza Sauce
- 8oz Wisconsin cheese, diced
- 3 ounces natural casing Pepperoni, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl or stand mixer, stir together all the dough ingredients until a smooth and elastic dough forms.
First Rise
Place the pizza dough in a well-greased bowl, turning it to coat in oil. Cover the dough and allow it to rise for 2 hours. Ensure you take your time with the rise times.
Press into the Pan
Oil the bottom and sides of a pizza pan. Stretch the dough into a rectangle and lay it in the pan. Cover and let it rest for 15 minutes to allow the gluten to relax. Gently spread the dough to the edges of the pan without creating a “crust” edge, making it an even layer.
Second Rise
Allow the dough to rise again for 2 hours or until it has risen about ⅓ of the way up the pan.
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 450°F (232°C). If you have a pizza stone, use it or a baking sheet, allowing it to preheat in the oven.
Add Toppings
Sprinkle cheese evenly over the dough, covering it to the edges.
Add pizza sauce, Italian sauce, or white pizza sauce into 2-3 lines/stripes going down the pan over the cheese, avoiding covering all the cheese in the sauce.
Lay pepperoni slices in a single layer over the top and lightly sprinkle parmesan.
Bake
Bake Detroit pizza for 15-20 minutes until the cheese turns golden in color.
Allow the Detroit pizza to cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing it into squares.
Make Ahead Instructions
Prepare the Detroit pizza dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight or for several hours to complete the “first rise.” Before pressing it into the pizza pan, please remove it from the fridge and let it come to room temperature.
Freezing Instructions
You can also freeze Detroit pizza dough for future use. After making and kneading the dough, tightly wrap it in plastic and place it in a freezer bag.
It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the dough completely in the refrigerator, then let it come to room temperature and rise for about an hour before pressing it into the pizza pan.
Conclusion
Detroit-style pizza offers a delightful departure from the typical pizza experience, with its square shape, unique dough, and crispy, cheesy edges.
Whether you go for the traditional Wisconsin brick cheese or shredded mozzarella, making this pizza at home is a rewarding and delicious adventure. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings and enjoy this savory, pan-baked masterpiece!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Detroit-Style Pizza unique?
Detroit-Style Pizza stands out due to its square shape, thick and airy dough, and the way it’s baked in a rectangular steel pan. The cheese edges caramelizing against the pan create a crunchy, flavorful crust, distinct from other pizza styles.
Can I use a regular pizza pan for Detroit pizza?
While traditional Detroit pizza is made in a steel pan, you can use a regular 9×13 metal baking pan as a substitute to achieve similar results. Just follow the provided instructions for the best experience.
What kind of cheese is used in authentic Detroit-style pizza?
Authentic Detroit pizza typically uses Wisconsin brick cheese, which is cubed and placed on the dough. However, you can also use shredded mozzarella cheese or experiment with other cheeses to suit your taste.
