How to Make Deep Dish Cheese Pizza with Giada De Laurentiis
How to Make Deep Dish Cheese Pizza with Giada De Laurentiis is a medium American (Chicago) recipe that serves 4. 620 calories per serving. Recipe by Food Network on YouTube.
Prep: 22 min | Cook: 1 hr 35 min | Total: 2 hrs 17 min
Cost: $5.46 total, $1.36 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon Active Dry Yeast (fresh, room temperature)
- 0.75 cup Warm Water (about 110°F (43°C))
- 1 teaspoon Honey (light honey)
- 2 cup All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
- 1 tablespoon Cornmeal (fine cornmeal for crust texture)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (kosher or table salt)
- 0.25 cup Olive Oil (extra‑virgin, divided)
- 8 ounce Provolone Cheese (pre‑sliced or shredded)
- 1 cup Marinara Sauce (jarred or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (optional)
- 2 tablespoon Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated, optional)
Instructions
Activate Yeast
Combine 1 tsp active dry yeast, 3/4 cup warm water (110°F), and 1 tsp honey in a small bowl. Stir gently and let sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
Time: PT5M
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups all‑purpose flour, 1 tbsp cornmeal, and 1 tsp salt.
Time: PT2M
Combine Wet Ingredients
Make a well in the dry mixture, pour in the activated yeast mixture and 1/4 cup olive oil. Stir with a spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
Time: PT3M
Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Time: PT5M
First Proof
Lightly oil the mixing bowl, place the dough inside, coat the top with a drizzle of olive oil, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and set in a turned‑off microwave (or warm oven) for 1 hour until doubled in size.
Time: PT1H
Shape in Springform Pan
Generously oil the 9‑inch springform pan. Gently press the risen dough into the bottom and up the sides, stretching with fingertips; avoid tearing the dough.
Time: PT5M
Add Cheese Layer
Lay the sliced provolone evenly over the crust, covering the bottom and sides.
Time: PT3M
Add Sauce and Toppings
Spread 1 cup marinara sauce over the cheese. Sprinkle red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and grated Parmesan if desired.
Time: PT3M
Bake the Pizza
Place the pan on the bottom rack of a preheated oven at 425°F. Bake for 30 minutes, then move to the top rack and bake an additional 5 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Time: PT35M
Temperature: 425°F
Rest and Serve
Remove the pizza, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the cheese to set.
Time: PT10M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 620
- Protein
- 28 g
- Carbohydrates
- 62 g
- Fat
- 30 g
- Fiber
- 4 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Wheat, Dairy, Yeast
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Active Dry Yeast: Instant yeast
- Instead of Honey: Sugar
- Instead of All-Purpose Flour: Bread flour
- Instead of Cornmeal: Polenta
- Instead of Olive Oil: vegetable oil
- Instead of Provolone Cheese: Mozzarella, Monterey Jack
- Instead of Marinara Sauce: Pizza sauce
- Instead of Red Pepper Flakes: Cayenne pepper
- Instead of Dried Oregano: Italian seasoning
- Instead of Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Whisk or Spoon
- Kitchen Towel or Plastic Wrap
- Microwave (off)
- Springform Pan (9‑inch)
- Oven
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Activating the yeast properly (step 1)
- First proofing for a full hour (step 5)
- Baking at the correct temperature and rack position (step 9)
Chef Tips from the Video
- The tablespoon of cornmeal adds a subtle crunch to the crust—don’t skip it.
- Use extra‑virgin olive oil for a richer flavor and to keep the dough moist.
- Let the dough rest after shaping (even 5 minutes) to relax gluten and prevent tearing.
Troubleshooting
Dough does not rise.
Check that the water was warm (not hot) and the yeast is fresh; place the dough in a warmer spot (e.g., oven with the light on).
Crust is soggy.
Pre‑bake the crust for 5‑7 minutes before adding cheese and sauce, and ensure the sauce is not overly watery.
Cheese does not melt fully.
Cover the pan loosely with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then remove to brown the top.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Unbaked dough can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 1 month; baked slices freeze well for up to 2 months.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate it, allowing a slower rise for more flavor.
- Marinara sauce can be made or portioned ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Assemble the pizza, cover tightly, and refrigerate; bake when ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Chicago style deep dish pizza in American cuisine?
Chicago deep‑dish pizza originated in the 1940s at Pizzeria Uno and quickly became a symbol of the city’s hearty, comfort‑food culture. It reflects the Midwestern love for buttery crusts, generous cheese, and sauce‑laden pies that differ from traditional thin‑crust Italian pizza.
What are the traditional regional variations of deep dish pizza within Chicago cuisine?
Besides the classic cheese‑and‑tomato version, Chicago pizzerias serve variations like “stuffed” deep‑dish (extra cheese layer on top), “pizza‑pot pie” with a flaky top, and “Sicilian‑style” deep‑dish that uses a thicker, focaccia‑like crust.
How is Chicago style deep dish pizza traditionally served in Chicago restaurants?
It is usually served on a metal pizza pan, cut into square pieces, and eaten with a fork and knife. A side of hot sauce or crushed red pepper is common, and many diners enjoy it with a cold beer.
On what occasions or celebrations is Chicago style deep dish pizza traditionally associated in the United States?
Deep‑dish pizza is a popular choice for family gatherings, sports‑watch parties (especially during Chicago Bears games), and casual celebrations where a hearty, shareable dish is desired.
What makes Chicago style deep dish pizza special or unique in American pizza cuisine?
Its tall, buttery crust, layered cheese underneath a thick tomato sauce, and the use of cornmeal for texture set it apart from thin‑crust or New York‑style pies, creating a pizza that feels more like a savory pie than a flatbread.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Chicago style deep dish pizza versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include cornmeal‑infused crust, provolone or mozzarella cheese, a robust tomato sauce, and often a dash of oregano. Substitutes can be mozzarella for provolone, whole‑wheat flour for all‑purpose, or a homemade sauce instead of jarred marinara.
What other American dishes pair well with Chicago style deep dish pizza?
Classic pairings include a crisp Caesar salad, garlic knots, or a creamy mushroom soup. For drinks, a cold lager or a glass of Chianti complements the richness of the pizza.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Chicago style deep dish pizza at home?
Common errors include under‑proofing the dough, using too much sauce which makes the crust soggy, and baking at a temperature that’s too low, resulting in a pale crust. Follow the proofing time and bake at 425°F for best results.
Why does this deep dish pizza recipe use cornmeal in the crust instead of a plain flour dough?
Cornmeal adds a subtle crunch and helps the crust hold its shape in the deep pan, preventing it from becoming overly soft. It also contributes a faint, nutty flavor that complements the rich cheese and sauce.
Can I make Chicago style deep dish pizza ahead of time and how should I store it before baking?
Yes. Prepare the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Assemble the pizza (crust, cheese, sauce) and keep it covered in the fridge; bake when ready. Leftovers store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
What does the YouTube channel Food Network specialize in?
The YouTube channel Food Network specializes in a wide range of cooking shows, recipe demonstrations, and culinary tips from professional chefs, covering everything from quick weeknight meals to elaborate restaurant‑style dishes.
How does the YouTube channel Food Network's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Food Network often pairs high‑production values with celebrity chef personalities, offering step‑by‑step guidance while emphasizing accessible ingredients. Compared to niche channels, it balances entertainment with practical home‑cooking techniques for a broad audience.
Last updated: September 3, 2026
