Chicago Deep Dish Pizza

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup crumbled Italian sausage, cooked
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Prepare Dough: In a bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt. In another bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and let it sit until frothy. Mix yeast mixture with dry ingredients, add olive oil, and knead until a smooth dough forms. Allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled.
2. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
3. Roll Out Dough: Roll out the risen dough to fit a deep-dish pizza pan or cast-iron skillet, ensuring it covers the sides.
4. Layer Ingredients: Layer the rolled-out dough with shredded mozzarella, dollops of ricotta, cooked sausage, tomato sauce, grated Parmesan, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
6. Cool and Slice: Allow the Chicago Deep Dish Pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing. The thick slices reveal the layers of deliciousness.

Calories per serving (approximate): 400 kcal

Note: Customize toppings to your preference, and don't be shy with the cheese!