Crispy Detroit Style Pizza
Crispy Detroit Style Pizza is an irresistible phenomenon that captures the hearts and taste buds of pizza lovers everywhere. Its unique combination of a thick, chewy crust, a crispy edge, and a savory topping creates a delightful eating experience that is both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a movie night or simply craving a delicious slice, this pizza is sure to hit the spot.
Originating from Detroit, this style of pizza is characterized by its rectangular shape and the way it is baked in a high-sided pan, contributing to its delicious crust. With an abundance of cheese that seeps down the sides and a rich tomato sauce nestled atop, every bite is a flavorful adventure. The use of a specially crafted dough gives it that delightful elevation and texture, making it a favorite among those who have experienced it. Ready to make your own at home? Let’s dive into the delicious world of Crispy Detroit Style Pizza.
Why make this recipe
Making Crispy Detroit Style Pizza at home is not just about enjoying a great meal; it’s about bringing the fun of pizza-making into your kitchen. The process of activating yeast, kneading dough, and layering flavors can become a cherished activity for friends and family. Plus, you have the freedom to customize the toppings to suit your personal tastes. It offers a hands-on approach to cooking that not only results in something delicious but also creates lasting memories.
This recipe is accessible yet rewarding, allowing even novice cooks to achieve impressive results. The thick crust enveloped in ooey-gooey cheese paired with robust tomato sauce makes it an irresistible option for any pizza lover. Furthermore, there’s a sense of satisfaction that comes from creating something so delightful from scratch. When the aroma fills your kitchen, and the pizza is pulled from the oven, you will understand why making this recipe is so worthwhile.
How to make Crispy Detroit Style Pizza
To embark on this culinary journey, begin by activating your yeast. Combine warm water with a sprinkle of sugar and yeast, allowing it to bloom into a foamy mixture that indicates its readiness for the dough-making process. Next, mix your flour and salt, then add the yeast mixture along with olive oil. This initial mixing step is crucial; it’s the point where your ingredients begin to transform into dough. Stirring until the mixture binds together can take a few minutes, but don’t rush this step, as the right texture is key to achieving that signature crust.
As the dough forms, let it undergo its first rise in a lightly oiled bowl. This duration typically lasts between 1 to 1 ½ hours, during which time the dough will double in size. To prepare for your pizza, generously oil your designated pan or skillet, ensuring a crisp edge to your pizza when it bakes. Press the risen dough into the pan gently, taking care to fill the corners as you go.
Now comes the part where it all comes together: layering the cheese and sauce. The cheese should be spread all the way to the edges, allowing it to create that distinctive crispy layer as it bakes. The sauce, which should be dolloped in thick stripes, will remain on top and help keep the crust moist while providing a punch of flavor. If you wish, allow your pizza to rise again briefly before transferring it to the oven. Eventually, achieving a good bake will take approximately 15-20 minutes at a high temperature, giving you a beautifully golden and bubbly pizza.
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups (420 g) all-purpose flour, preferably unbleached
- 1 ½ cups (355 ml) warm water (around 100°F / 38°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for the pan)
- 3 cups shredded brick cheese or whole milk mozzarella
- 1 ½ cups canned crushed tomatoes
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Red pepper flakes (optional, a pinch)
- A handful fresh basil, roughly chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water (100°F/38°C), sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour and salt. Slowly add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until the dough begins to come together, about 3-4 minutes by mixer or 5-7 minutes by hand. The dough should be sticky but elastic.
- First rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl, place the dough inside, and cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 ½ hours until doubled in size.
- Prepare the pan: Generously oil your Detroit style pizza pan or cast iron skillet with olive oil, making sure to coat the edges well.
- Shape the dough: Transfer the risen dough to the oiled pan. Press it gently to fill corners and edges. Let rest 5 minutes if it springs back.
- Add cheese: Evenly distribute the shredded brick cheese or mozzarella all the way to the edges.
- Top with sauce: Spoon dollops of crushed tomato sauce over the cheese in three thick stripes. Sprinkle garlic powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Second rise (optional): Let the pizza rest for another 15-20 minutes for a lighter crust.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C). Place pizza on middle rack and bake for 15-20 minutes until crust is golden and crispy and cheese is bubbly with browned edges.
- Finish: Remove from oven, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh basil if desired. Let sit for 5 minutes before slicing.
Time Breakdown
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 20 minutes
• Chilling Time: N/A
• Rising Time: 1 ½ hours
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Servings: 8
How to serve Crispy Detroit Style Pizza
When it comes to serving your Crispy Detroit Style Pizza, presentation is just as important as taste. After allowing the pizza to cool slightly, slice it into squares instead of traditional wedges to best showcase its unique shape. For an enhanced experience, serve it alongside a fresh salad or some traditional Italian antipasto to provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the pizza.
Consider offering a variety of condiments, such as hot sauce, extra red pepper flakes, or even a drizzle of balsamic reduction, allowing your guests to personalize their experience. If serving at a gathering, placing the pizza in the center of the table can stimulate conversation and excitement as everyone digs in for that first delicious bite. Fresh herbs scattered on top can also elevate the visual appeal, making your pizza a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
How to store Crispy Detroit Style Pizza
If you happen to have leftovers, storing your Crispy Detroit Style Pizza properly will ensure that it stays delicious for your next meal. Allow the pizza to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
If you think you won’t finish it within that timeframe, consider freezing it. Slice the pizza into portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method will allow you to enjoy your delicious pizza later without compromising on taste or texture. When ready to eat, reheat the slices in an oven to regain their crispiness instead of using the microwave, which may make the crust soggy.
Tips to make Crispy Detroit Style Pizza
To take your Crispy Detroit Style Pizza to the next level, consider using a good quality, high-fat content cheese. The melting properties and flavor of cheese can significantly impact your final product, so opting for brick cheese or whole milk mozzarella will yield a more satisfying texture. Don’t shy away from playing with the amounts or types of toppings; the beauty of pizza lies in its versatility.
Pay attention to the rising times. If your kitchen is cooler, you might need to extend the first rise to ensure that the dough achieves the optimal texture and flavor. Similarly, give the second rise a shot even though it’s optional; it can lead to a lighter crust. Lastly, be bold with your seasonings. Adjust garlic, herbs, and spices according to your preference, allowing your personality to shine through in each delicious slice.
Variation
No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 550 mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour, but it may affect the texture of the crust. You might want to blend it with all-purpose flour for better results.
Q: Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?
A: While the second rise is optional, allowing the dough to rise a second time can lead to a lighter, airier crust.
Q: How do I know when the pizza is done baking?
A: Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling cheese with browned edges. The internal temperature should ideally reach around 200°F (93°C).
Crispy Detroit Style Pizza
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3.5 cups 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, preferably unbleached
- 1.5 cups 1 ½ cups warm water (around 100°F / 38°C)
- 2.25 teaspoons 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast One packet
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons salt
- 3 tablespoons 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for the pan)
For the Toppings
- 3 cups 3 cups shredded brick cheese or whole milk mozzarella
- 1.5 cups 1 ½ cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 0.5 teaspoon ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 pinch Red pepper flakes Optional
- 1 handful A handful fresh basil, roughly chopped Optional
- 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water (100°F/38°C), sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour and salt. Slowly add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until the dough begins to come together, about 3-4 minutes by mixer or 5-7 minutes by hand.
- First rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl, place the dough inside, and cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 ½ hours until doubled in size.
- Prepare the pan: Generously oil your Detroit style pizza pan or cast iron skillet with olive oil, making sure to coat the edges well.
- Shape the dough: Transfer the risen dough to the oiled pan. Press it gently to fill corners and edges. Let rest 5 minutes if it springs back.
- Add cheese: Evenly distribute the shredded brick cheese or mozzarella all the way to the edges.
- Top with sauce: Spoon dollops of crushed tomato sauce over the cheese in three thick stripes. Sprinkle garlic powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Second rise (optional): Let the pizza rest for another 15-20 minutes for a lighter crust.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C). Place pizza on middle rack and bake for 15-20 minutes until crust is golden and crispy and cheese is bubbly with browned edges.
- Finish: Remove from oven, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh basil if desired. Let sit for 5 minutes before slicing.
