Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pizza stands out for its unique texture—light and fluffy inside with crispy, cheesy edges. It’s easy to prepare at home and doesn’t require complicated shaping. The layering method, with cheese under the sauce, creates a delicious contrast of flavors. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for sharing with family or friends.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 cups bread flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
For topping:
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup pizza sauce
1/2 cup pepperoni slices or other toppings
Directions
- In a bowl, mix bread flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
- Add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead lightly until smooth, then cover and let rise for about 1 to 2 hours until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Grease a rectangular baking pan generously with oil.
- Press the dough into the pan, stretching it to the edges.
- Let the dough rest for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle cheese evenly over the dough, making sure it reaches the edges.
- Add pepperoni or other toppings over the cheese.
- Spoon the pizza sauce in lines or dollops over the top.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese edges are crispy.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then slice and serve.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Rise time: 1 to 2 hours
Cook time: 15 to 20 minutes
Total time: About 2 hours
Variations
You can customize Detroit style pizza in many ways. Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for extra flavor. Add vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for variety. Try a meat lover’s version with sausage and bacon. For a different twist, use a white sauce or pesto instead of traditional tomato sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can soften the crust.
FAQs
What makes Detroit style pizza different?
It has a thick, airy crust and crispy cheese edges, baked in a rectangular pan.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, but bread flour gives a better texture.
Why is the cheese placed under the sauce?
This helps create crispy edges and a unique flavor.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate it overnight.
What pan should I use?
A rectangular metal pan works best.
Can I freeze the pizza?
Yes, it can be frozen and reheated later.
How do I get crispy edges?
Use enough oil and spread cheese to the edges.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, just skip the meat and add vegetables.
What sauce works best?
A thick pizza sauce works well.
Can I cook it at a lower temperature?
A high temperature is recommended for the best texture.
Conclusion
Detroit style pizza is a bold and satisfying dish with its signature thick crust and crispy, cheesy edges. Easy to make and highly customizable, it’s a great option for pizza lovers looking to try something different. Whether for a casual dinner or a gathering, this pizza is sure to impress.
PrintDetroit Style Pizza
Detroit style pizza features a thick, airy crust with crispy, caramelized cheese edges and rich tomato sauce layered on top. This hearty rectangular pizza delivers bold flavor and satisfying texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices or other toppings
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix bread flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
- Add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead lightly until smooth, then cover and let rise for 1 to 2 hours until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Grease a rectangular baking pan generously with oil.
- Press dough into the pan, stretching it to the edges.
- Let dough rest for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle cheese evenly over the dough, reaching the edges.
- Add pepperoni or desired toppings over the cheese.
- Spoon pizza sauce in lines or dollops over the top.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until crust is golden and cheese edges are crispy.
- Cool slightly, slice, and serve.
Notes
- Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for richer flavor.
- Ensure cheese reaches the edges for crispy caramelization.
- Refrigerate dough overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in oven at 375°F (190°C) to maintain crispness.
- Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy crust.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
