One-topping Deep Dish Pizza Recipe

Activate yeast and mix

Combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast in a bowl. Stir and let sit 5–7 minutes until foamy.

Combine dry ingredients

In a large bowl or stand mixer bowl, whisk together flour and salt.

Form dough

Add foamy yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons olive oil to the flour. Mix with a spoon or dough hook until a shaggy dough forms, then knead by hand on a lightly floured surface or with a mixer for 6–8 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky.

First rise

Lightly oil a clean bowl, place the dough inside, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Make sauce

While dough rises, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, stir until combined. Add dried oregano, dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Simmer gently 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Preheat oven and pan

Place a rack in the lower third of the oven and preheat to 475°F (245°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch deep-dish or 10-inch cast-iron skillet with a little olive oil or butter.

Shape dough

Punch down the risen dough and transfer to a lightly floured surface. Press and stretch the dough into a round about 11–12 inches across and tall enough to line the sides of the deep dish/skillet. Fit the dough into the prepared pan, pressing it up the sides to form a 1–1.5 inch rim. Trim any excess. If desired, brush the exposed rim with 1 tablespoon melted butter for a golden crust.

Layer cheese and topping

Sprinkle about 2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella evenly across the bottom of the dough. Add the chosen one-topping (about 2 cups) in an even layer over the cheese. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella and the grated parmesan over the topping.

Add sauce and bake

Spoon the prepared tomato sauce over the cheese and toppings, spreading to cover evenly. Place the skillet on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 18–25 minutes, until the crust is deep golden brown at the edges and the sauce is bubbling.

Rest and serve

Remove pizza from oven and let rest 5–8 minutes to set. Slide a spatula around the edges to release, transfer to a cutting board or slice directly in the pan. Serve hot, 6–8 slices.