Savor the Flavors of the Windy City: Easy Mini Chicago Deep Dish Pizza Extravaganza
Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Chicago with our Easy Mini Chicago Deep Dish Pizza – a bite-sized rendition of the iconic Windy City delight. Bursting with layers of gooey cheese, flavorful sauce, and a buttery crust, these mini pizzas are a celebration of simplicity and indulgence. Join us as we guide you through crafting the perfect miniature deep-dish experience, bringing the essence of Chicago straight to your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Pizza Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Mini pepperoni slices or your favorite toppings
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and activated yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead and Rise:
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Preheat and Divide:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the risen dough and divide it into mini pizza-sized portions.
- Assemble the Mini Pizzas:
- Press each dough portion into mini deep-dish pizza pans or a muffin tin, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides.
- Layer the Goodness:
- Begin with a layer of mozzarella cheese, followed by a spoonful of marinara sauce, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and your desired toppings. Repeat for added layers.
- Season and Bake:
- Sprinkle oregano, basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Allow the mini pizzas to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the pans. Serve and savor the Chicago deep-dish goodness!
Cook Notes
- Perfectly Warm Water: Ensure the water for activating the yeast is at the right temperature (110°F/43°C) to facilitate proper yeast activation.
- Cornmeal Crunch: The addition of cornmeal to the dough and as a dusting for the pans adds a delightful crunch to the crust.
- Play with Toppings: Customize your mini pizzas with your favorite toppings – from mini pepperoni to bell peppers, mushrooms, or even crumbled sausage.
- Deep-Dish Pans: If you don’t have mini deep-dish pizza pans, a muffin tin works wonderfully. Press the dough into the cups, creating mini deep-dish crusts.
Variations
Veggie Delight:
- Load up your mini pizzas with a medley of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes.
Meat Lover’s Dream:
- Create a carnivore’s delight by adding a combination of sausage, bacon, and ham as toppings.
Margherita Elegance:
- Keep it classic with fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and basil for a simple yet elegant twist.
Keto Version
Almond Flour Magic:
- Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour to make the pizza dough keto-friendly.
Tomato Sauce Replacement:
- Opt for a low-carb pizza sauce or make your own using fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
Low Carb Version
Cauliflower Crust:
- Replace the traditional pizza dough with a cauliflower crust for a low-carb alternative.
Sugar-Free Sauce:
- Choose a sugar-free marinara sauce to keep the carb count low while maintaining the classic flavor.
In conclusion, these Easy Mini Chicago Deep Dish Pizzas are a testament to the bold and savory flavors that define the Windy City’s culinary scene. Whether you’re creating a party platter or indulging in a cozy night in, these mini pizzas bring the essence of Chicago to your fingertips.
Experiment with toppings, explore keto and low-carb variations, and relish in the joy of crafting these bite-sized delights. For more culinary adventures and delicious inspirations, stay tuned to our blog. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the aroma of Chicago deep-dish perfection!
