Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza

Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza is a delightful twist on traditional pizza, known for its thick, chewy crust and a unique approach to toppings. It’s characterized by a rectangular shape, a crispy bottom, and layers of cheese and toppings that create an irresistible flavor combination. If you’re ready to bring the taste of Detroit into your kitchen, follow along as we dive into making this delicious pizza from scratch!

Reasons to Love Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza

Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza is a game changer for several reasons:

• Unique Crust: The thick, airy crust is baked in a deep pan, resulting in a crispy bottom and soft interior.
• Layered Toppings: Cheese goes right to the edge of the pan, creating a deliciously crispy cheese border.
• Customizable: You can tailor your toppings to suit your taste, whether you prefer classic pepperoni or something more adventurous.
• Perfect for Sharing: The rectangular shape makes it easy to slice and serve, perfect for gatherings with friends and family.

The Essentials

To whip up your own Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 cups unbleached bread flour: Provides the perfect structure for a chewy crust.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough.
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast: Helps the dough rise quickly.
• 2 cups water (cool, 75 to 85°F): Hydrates the dough for optimal texture.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for stretching): Adds flavor and helps with dough elasticity.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with a robust aroma.
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano: Offers a classic Italian flavor profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a hint of heat.
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: The base of your pizza sauce, providing freshness.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Deepens the flavor of the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall garlic flavor.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Seasoning for the sauce.
• 12 oz brick cheese (cut into 1-inch cubes): The star of the show, melting beautifully.
• 1 cup pepperoni (sliced): A classic topping that’s always a hit.
• 1/4 cup Romano cheese (grated, optional): For an extra layer of flavor.

Hardware & Gadgets

Before you start, gather the following tools:

• Pizza pan: A deep rectangular pan is ideal for achieving that iconic Detroit-style crust.
• Mixing bowl: For combining your dough ingredients.
• Dough scraper: Helpful for handling and cutting the dough.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key when baking.
• Rolling pin: For stretching the dough if needed.
• Oven thermometer: Ensures your oven is at the correct temperature for baking.

Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza: Step-by-Step Guide

Making your own Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza is easier than you might think! Follow these steps for a delicious result.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 4 cups of unbleached bread flour, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of instant yeast. Mix well to ensure even distribution. Gradually add in the 2 cups of water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 2 hours.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While the dough is rising, prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Grease your pizza pan with a bit more olive oil, then transfer the dough to the pan. Using your fingers, gently stretch and press the dough to fit the pan, making sure to push it all the way to the edges.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the pan with a damp towel and let the dough rise again for about 30 minutes. This will help create that airy crust.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 500°F (or the highest setting your oven allows).

Step 8: Assemble the Pizza

Once the dough has risen, spread a generous layer of the prepared tomato sauce over the top, leaving some space around the edges. Evenly distribute the 12 oz of cubed brick cheese over the sauce, making sure to get some cheese right to the edges for that crispy crust. Top with sliced pepperoni and a sprinkle of Romano cheese, if using.

Step 9: Bake the Pizza

Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and starting to brown.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy your Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza with family and friends!

Make It Year-Round

Don’t let the seasons dictate your pizza cravings! Here are some ideas to keep your Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza relevant year-round:

• Seasonal Toppings: Experiment with seasonal vegetables or fruits, like fresh basil in summer or roasted butternut squash in fall.
• Holiday Themes: Decorate your pizza for holidays with themed toppings; think red and green for Christmas or a spooky design for Halloween.
• Game Day Variations: Add unique toppings to suit your favorite sports teams or events.
• Leftover Creations: Use leftover meats and veggies to create exciting new flavor combinations.

What Could Go Wrong

Even the best chefs encounter challenges. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Dough Not Rising: Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water is at the right temperature; too hot or too cold can hinder yeast activity.
• Too Sticky Dough: If your dough is too sticky, gradually add flour while kneading until it reaches the right consistency.
• Underbaked Crust: Make sure your oven is preheated adequately; a hot oven is crucial for that crispy bottom.
• Too Much Sauce: While sauce is important, too much can make your pizza soggy. Use a moderate amount for the best results.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza:

For refrigeration, wrap the pizza tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQ

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Brick cheese is traditional for Detroit-style pizza, but you can also use mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.

Can I use a different type of flour?

While bread flour gives the best texture, you can use all-purpose flour in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Make sure to bake at a high temperature and avoid overloading on sauce. Pre-baking the crust for a few minutes before adding toppings can also help.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you love the concept of making delicious meals in one pan, consider these ideas:

• One-Pan Chicken Parmesan
• One-Pan Vegan Taco Bowl
• Sheet Pan Pancakes
• One-Pan Vegetable Curry

Final Bite

Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza is a treat that brings everyone together. With its thick crust, flavorful sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s hard not to fall in love with this style of pizza. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply craving something delicious, this recipe is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the best pizza experience right from your own kitchen!