Chicago-Inspired Deep Dish Pizza with Sausage and Mozzarella

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-30 · Updated 2026-06-30

A rich deep dish pizza loaded with Italian sausage, fresh mozzarella, and a thick tomato sauce for a classic Chicago-style experience at home. This Italian-inspired pizza recipe, ready in about 105 minutes, pairs all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, warm water for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 560 calories and feeds 6, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 3/4 cup (110°F) warm water
• 3 tbsp, divided olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 12 oz, casing removed and crumbled Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 12 oz, sliced fresh mozzarella
• 1 1/2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp (optional) red pepper flakes

The pizza stone or steel we’d bake this on → Best Pizza Stones and Steels for 2026: Top Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, dissolve 1 packet active dry yeast in 3/4 cup warm water (110°F). Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon salt. Add yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Stir until dough forms, then knead on floured surface for 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place dough in oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
3. Step 3: Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 12 ounces crumbled Italian sausage and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat.
4. Step 4: Stir together 1 1/2 cups canned crushed tomatoes, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using), and salt to taste in a bowl for the sauce.
5. Step 5: Preheat oven to 425°F. Press dough into a 10-inch deep dish pan, pushing dough up sides to form a crust.
6. Step 6: Layer the bottom with half of the sliced 12 ounces fresh mozzarella. Add cooked sausage evenly over cheese, then pour tomato sauce over the top. Sprinkle 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese over sauce.
7. Step 7: Bake for 30-35 minutes until crust is golden and sauce bubbles. Let cool 10 minutes before slicing and serving.