Detroit Style Pizza Recipe: A Taste of Detroit Pan Pizza
Experience the ultimate Detroit-style pizza with our recipe! Enjoy a crispy, cheesy crust topped with pepperoni, mozzarella, and thick tomato sauce.
Discover the Secrets of Detroit Style Pizza: A Perfect Pan Pizza
Walking through Detroit, I found a cozy spot where they served a slice that was unlike any other. The crust was golden, and the sauce bubbled around the edges of the pan. It was my first taste of Detroit style pizza, with cheese piled high and cooked in a special pan. I need to buy a new pizza pan for making Sicilian pizza. Each bite was crunchy on the outside and soft inside and incredible homemade pizza sauce. The experience made me wonder, what makes Detroit style pizza so unique?
Ingredients in This Recipe ⬇️
Back home, I searched for Jets Pizza to relive that moment. Homemade pizza sauce and sturdy pans became essential in my attempt to recreate that flavor. My goal was to make a pizza with that signature crisp.
A creative recipe that mixed flavors in a new way sparked my excitement. Grocery runs for pizza ingredients kept me inspired. Looking to Jet’s Pizza for inspiration, fresh cheese and pressing the dough into the pan became key steps in my process
Key Takeaways
- A thick, airy crust defines detroit style pizza.
- A detroit style pizza pan gives edges a crunchy finish.
- Cheese to the rim boosts flavor in every bite.
- Homemade pizza sauce can change the way you taste each slice.
- Pan seasoning helps seal moisture for a perfect crust.
- Experiment with toppings to find new favorites.
What Makes Detroit Style Pizza Unique?
I love the square shape and caramelized corners of Detroit-style pizza. It’s bold and comforting at the same time. The cheese melting along the edges is a highlight.
My fascination began with its hearty crust. It always makes me smile.
Chef’s Tip: 🍞 For that classic crisp edge, press cheese all the way to the pan’s rim. As it bakes, the cheese caramelizes against the metal, creating that signature crunchy “frico” crust.
Pro Advice: 🥄 If your dough resists stretching, let it rest for a few minutes. The gluten relaxes, making it easier to push the dough into the corners without tearing.
Homemade pizzas are best when you roll the dough to the edges of the pan.
What is the Origin of Detroit Style Pizza?
This style comes from steel pans used in Detroit’s factories. A homemade dough guide shows how airy dough became a Detroit staple. Pan lovers appreciated the deeper, flavorful crust.
How is Detroit Style Pizza Different from Other Pizza Styles?
Compared to older pan-baked pizzas, it has higher walls and crispier edges. The hearty bite is unique. Pepperoni curls up, sealing in flavor.
Each piece has that signature caramelization. It’s a standout among many regional pizzas.
Why is the Chewy Crust Significant in Detroit Style Pizza?
The crust’s texture comes from the right mix of ingredients. An insightful read taught me patience in rising enhances flavor. This makes every bite soft yet bold.
My adventures with Detroit-style pizza continue to grow. It holds a special place in my heart. It shows that big flavors come from simple traditions.
How to Make Detroit-Style Pizza at Home?
Enjoying the bold flavor and thick texture of Detroit-style pizza always excites me. Reminding me of a Sicilian bake, the process starts by measuring bread flour and adding warm water to a stand mixer. In less than 30 seconds, a shaggy dough forms around the dough hook and corners of the pan. It always sparks excitement in my kitchen.
What Ingredients Are Essential for the Pizza Dough?
Mixing yeast, oil, and just enough flour helps make the dough for a pizza with pepperoni smooth. Kneading the dough until it feels elastic is crucial, as this step helps develop a chewy crust.
After that, I place the dough under plastic wrap in a warm place. This gives it plenty of time to rise before baking in the oven and bake it to perfection.
Expert Trick: 🧂 Salt your sauce at the end of simmering. The flavors develop more accurately, and you can control the final seasoning to perfection.
🔥 Quick Tip: 🍕 Test your oven’s hot spots by checking the cheese color around the edges. Rotate the pan halfway if one side browns faster than the other.
How to Prepare the Detroit Style Pizza Recipe?
A kitchen towel is set over the bowl to let the dough breathe. The dough is then covered with homemade pizza sauce for a delicious pizza experience and cheesy finish. Greasing the pan first helps prevent sticking.
What is the Best Method to Stretch the Dough?
Gently pressing the dough allows it to spread all the way to the edges. Ideas found in this quick read provided inspiration to experiment. Seeing how far the dough can stretch without tearing constantly feels great.
| Step | Tip |
|---|---|
| 1 | Measure and combine bread flour with warm water |
| 2 | Allow dough to rest under a kitchen towel before adding toppings |
| 3 | Use fingertips to gently press the dough to desired thickness |
Chef’s Tip: 🧀 If you can’t find brick cheese, mix equal parts of low-moisture mozzarella and mild white cheddar. This combo comes close to the classic Detroit-style flavor.
Pro Advice: 🏺 Lightly oil your hands when handling the dough. It prevents sticking, and you’ll press out air pockets more smoothly for a consistent rise.
Choosing the Right Pan for Your Pizza
Making thick crust pan pizzas at home is something I enjoy. The right pan makes a considerable difference 🙂. The process starts with simple dough, stretched to cover the pan’s corners for a golden crust and lots of cheese
Also let the pizza rest before baking. This step enables it rise in a warm place. Then, I bake it on the oven rack.
A recent read on cream cheese chicken enchiladas, but I also enjoy making delicious pizza. It reminded me of the importance of good cookware when making Sicilian pizza. The same goes for making pizza.
Using 2 tablespoons of oil to prevent the crust from sticking. If I can’t find a Detroit style pizza pan, I use a 9×13-inch baking pan. It works well as long as it has sturdy sides of the pan. I use a cube of cheese for extra flavor in my pizza.
Why Use a Detroit Style Pizza Pan?
I love how it shapes the dough into a pan pizza. This shape gives the perfect balance of soft inside and crunchy corners. And amazing homemade pizza sauce
What Alternatives Exist for a Detroit Style Pizza Pan?
If I can’t find the specialty pan, I use a 9×13-inch baking pan. It’s great for making a crust pizza. Plus, cutting the pizza with a cutter after baking is easy.
How to Prepare Your Pizza Pan for Baking?
Greasing the pan’s corners and pressing the dough gently helps create the perfect base. After that, it settles for a bit, allowing the crust to stay airy while baking.
Expert Trick: 🍅 Place spoonfuls of sauce on top in stripes, rather than spreading it over the cheese. This protects the dough from sogginess and preserves the crunchy crust’s integrity.
🔥 Quick Tip: ⏲️ Keep the oven really hot—500°F or above. That intense heat rapidly puffs the dough and caramelizes the edges for the authentic Detroit finish.
The Perfect Cheese and Toppings for Your Detroit Pizza
The burst of flavor when pairing cheese and homemade pizza sauce in one mouthwatering bite is truly satisfying. Planning to make Detroit-style pizza with a golden edge is always exciting. A pizza dough recipe helps achieve this goal. First, a shaggy dough forms, and the dough is settled in the pan using a clean approach.
What Cheese Provides the Best Flavor?
I mix mozzarella with an aged cheddar. I note that detroit versions benefit from a strong cheddar kick. Once I cover the pan, I let things rest for 10 minutes before baking. This step locks in moisture and allows flavors to blend nicely.
How to Select the Right Toppings?
My go-to option is pepperoni, but roasted veggies add a fresh boost. I prefer a homemade pizza approach, allowing me to create new flavor pairings. Before I return to the dough for a final stretch, I keep it tightly with plastic wrap if I need extra hold. If I’d like more tips, I check this helpful page for creative meal ideas.
Ways to Spread Pizza Sauce Evenly Across the Pizza
The pan is placed on a stable surface, with thick tomato sauce spooned across the pizza. Sauce is spread in stripes or swirls, ensuring every bite is covered. Allowing it to rest momentarily helps maintain a soft interior. This approach makes it easier to control the outcome and truly enjoy easy-to-make recipes, achieving consistent results with Detroit-style pizza.
| Cheese | Taste Profile |
|---|---|
| Mozzarella | Classic, mild flavor |
| Cheddar | Sharp, tangy kick |
| Provolone | Smoky undertone |
Tips for Achieving a Crispy Crust
I love the crunchy bite that makes Detroit-style pizza unforgettable. After placing salt in a large swirl of flour, the dough is added to the bowl of a stand mixer. The dough hook attachment is secured for a smooth knead.
Next, I secure the dough hook attachment for a smooth knead. Once it’s elastic, I lift the dough using your fingers and press it close to the edges. I layer cheese all the way to create a caramelized border.
How to Achieve Crispy Edges of the Pizza?
Adding the dough and spread, ensuring it is even along the sides of the bowl, helps create a uniform base. A drizzle of 2 tablespoons of olive oil under the crust boosts browning. When it’s time to make the sauce, a simple recipe for red sauce that clings to every bite works perfectly.
After baking, I move the pizza onto the edge of the pan cutting board for an easy slice.
What Role Does Olive Oil Play in Enhancing Crust Texture?
I rely on olive oil to form that golden base. It works as a barrier against sogginess and adds richness. Brushing the rim lets flavors meld and keeps every slice crisp.
Chef’s Tip: 🍖 If using pepperoni, put some slices under the cheese and some on top. The hidden pepperoni infuses the dough with flavor, while the top slices crisp up nicely.
Pro Advice: 🍽️ After baking, let the pizza cool for 2–3 minutes in the pan. This helps set the cheese crust before you slide it out and slice, ensuring neat squares with minimal cheese slide.
How Long to Let the Pizza Rest Before Serving?
I wait a few minutes before cutting into the pizza. A clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap is essential for covering the dough with a clean layer, covering can keep it warm if needed. You can use a kitchen towel or plastic wrap to hold in steam, though I like to remove plastic wrap and allow final cooling.
This prevents collapse and keeps the crust firm. I explore new ideas by visiting delicious inspirations for different meals at home.
Detroit Style Pizza – FAQs
Find answers to the most common questions about Detroit style pizza, including its history, preparation, and reheating methods.
❓ What is Detroit style pizza?
This deep-dish pizza is known for its thick, airy crust, caramelized cheese edges, and bold tomato sauce layered on top. It’s baked in a rectangular pan for crispy edges.
❓ How to make Detroit style pizza?
To prepare it at home, start with a high-hydration dough, press it into a well-oiled pan, layer with cheese to the edges, add toppings, and finish with sauce after baking.
❓ Where was Detroit style pizza invented?
This pizza style originated in Detroit, Michigan, in the late 1940s. It was first made using deep, rectangular steel pans similar to those used in automotive factories.
❓ How to reheat Detroit style pizza?
For the best texture, reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat or in a hot oven at 375°F until the crust becomes crispy again. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
© 2025 Detroit Pizza Guide
Conclusion
Bringing the bold flavors of Detroit-style pizza into your home kitchen is an experience worth savoring. From its crispy cheese edges to its thick, airy crust, this unique pizza style is a game-changer for anyone who loves deep-dish varieties. The combination of high-hydration dough, a well-seasoned pan, and layers of cheese reaching the edges creates a texture unlike any other.
If you’re planning a homemade pizza night, consider pairing this dish with other hearty dinner ideas to round out the meal. A side of Louisiana Chicken Pasta brings a creamy, Cajun-inspired contrast to the rich flavors of Detroit-style pizza. For those craving a bit more elegance, Chicken Madeira serves as a perfect, restaurant-worthy addition to your dinner spread.
Pizza lovers who enjoy experimenting with dough-based recipes might also appreciate making Stromboli for another take on cheesy, baked goodness. If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, Homemade Hamburger Helper delivers comfort in every bite. And for those who can’t resist Mexican flavors, try serving your pizza alongside Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas for a fusion-style feast.
With so many ways to customize and complement this classic pan pizza, there’s no limit to the delicious creations you can enjoy at home. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this dish is bound to become a favorite. So, grab your Detroit-style pizza pan, gather fresh ingredients, and start baking the perfect slice today!
Detroit Style Pizza Recipe - Crispy, Cheesy, Perfect! 🧀🍕
Equipment
- Stand mixer or food processor (optional)
- Detroit-style 10x14-inch anodized aluminum pan
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap
- Spatula
- Oven
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 300 g bread flour about 2 generous cups
- 5 g instant yeast about 1 teaspoon
- 9 g salt about 1 1/2 teaspoons
- 220 g water about 1 cup minus 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Extra-virgin olive oil as needed
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 medium garlic cloves minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- Dash of red pepper flakes
- 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Kosher salt to taste
- To Finish:
- 12 oz brick cheese cubed
- 12 oz pepperoni sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a stand mixer, combine bread flour, yeast, and salt. Add water and mix until a rough dough forms. Let it rest for 10 minutes, then knead until smooth and elastic.
- Form the dough into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough:
- Coat a Detroit-style pizza pan with olive oil. Place the dough in the pan and gently stretch it toward the edges. Let it rest, then stretch again until it reaches the corners. Cover and let it rise.
- Make the Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, and sugar. Simmer for about 30 minutes until thickened. Season with salt to taste.
- Assemble the Pizza:
- Press down the dough to remove air bubbles. Layer half the pepperoni, then spread the brick cheese to the edges. Add the remaining pepperoni, then spoon sauce in three rows across the top.
- Bake the Pizza:
- Preheat oven to 550°F (290°C). Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are crispy and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly, loosen the edges with a spatula, and transfer to a cutting board. Slice and enjoy! 🍽️
Video
Notes
Tips & Suggestions 💡
- Perfect Crust: Let the dough rest properly to achieve a soft yet crispy base.
- Cheese Selection: Use authentic brick cheese for a true Detroit-style taste. If unavailable, mix Monterey Jack and mozzarella. 🧀
- Serving Tip: Serve with a side of marinara sauce for extra dipping. 🍅
- Reheating Tip: Heat leftovers in a skillet to revive the crispy edges. 🍕🔥
- Spice it Up: Add extra red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a spicy kick. 🌶️
Nutrition
Nutrition Disclaimer
The Chef Marcy is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
