THE CHICAGO PIZZA THAT DESTROYS DEEP DISH (THIN, CRISPY & DELICIOUS!) | SAM THE COOKING GUY

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through creating a delicious Chicago-style tavern pizza that is thin, crispy, and full of flavor, as demonstrated by Sam the Cooking Guy. Unlike the traditional deep-dish pizza, this version offers a lighter and more delightful pizza experience. Let's dive into the steps to make this fantastic dish at home!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand:

• Pizza Dough: You can make your own or buy pre-made dough.
• Olive Oil: For greasing the pan and adding flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Use shredded for easy melting.
• Italian Sausage: Crumbled, for a savory topping.
• Pizza Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade.
• Toppings: Choose your favorites (e.g., pepperoni, bell peppers, onions).
• Cornmeal: For dusting the pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Dough

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 475°F (245°C).
2. Shape the Dough:
   • If using homemade dough, roll it out on a floured surface until it's about 1/4 inch thick.
   • Transfer the dough to a greased cast iron pan or baking sheet.
3. Add Cornmeal: Sprinkle cornmeal on the bottom of the pan to enhance the crust’s texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

1. Add Olive Oil: Brush a thin layer of olive oil over the dough.
2. Layer the Cheese:
   • Start with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese across the dough.
3. Add Sausage: Evenly distribute crumbled Italian sausage over the cheese.
4. Spread the Sauce: Spoon pizza sauce over the top, ensuring an even coverage.
5. Top It Off: Add any additional toppings of your choice.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

1. Place in the Oven: Carefully put the assembled pizza into your preheated oven.
2. Bake Time: Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Cool the Pizza: Once done, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Slice and Serve: Cut into squares or wedges and serve hot.
3. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle some fresh herbs or chili flakes on top for added flavor.

Conclusion

You've successfully created a Chicago-style tavern pizza that is sure to impress! This recipe showcases how easy it is to enjoy a crispy and delicious alternative to deep-dish pizza. Feel free to experiment with different toppings and sauces to customize it to your taste. Enjoy your homemade pizza and consider sharing it with friends or family for a fun pizza night!