Introduction

Detroit-style pizza is a thick, rectangular pie known for its crispy edges and cheesy, saucy topping. This homemade vegetarian version lets you enjoy the iconic flavors with fresh tomatoes and a blend of cheeses, all from scratch.

A close-up of a thick square pizza slice with three visible layers: a bottom golden-brown crispy crust, a middle layer of dark red tomato sauce mixed with melted cheese that is slightly browned at the edges, and a top layer of melted white cheese dotted with red slices of tomato sprinkled with black pepper. The pizza rests on a light wooden board, with a white marbled texture surface in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 and 1/3 cups lukewarm water
2 teaspoons sugar
1 packet dry active yeast (about 2 teaspoons)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
3 to 4 tablespoons olive oil
1 and 1/2 cups pizza sauce of your choice
6 ounces cubed cheese (Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or cheddar recommended)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
3 medium Roma tomatoes, sliced
Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Dissolve the sugar in lukewarm water. Once dissolved, add the yeast and let it bloom for about 10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the salt and 2 cups of flour. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine. Gradually add the remaining flour while kneading the dough until it forms a smooth, cohesive ball, about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Coat a 9 x 13 inch non-stick metal pan with 3 to 4 tablespoons of olive oil, making sure to cover all corners and sides.
Step 4: Place the dough in the pan and press it down to cover the bottom. Flip the dough a couple of times to evenly coat it with the olive oil. It’s okay if the dough doesn’t cover the entire pan yet—it will rise. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rise for about 2 hours until it fills the pan.
Step 5: Preheat your oven to 450 to 475°F (230 to 245°C).
Step 6: If the dough has risen unevenly, gently press it with your fingertips to create an even surface without deflating it completely.
Step 7: Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough.
Step 8: Sprinkle the cubed cheese and shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
Step 9: Arrange the tomato slices over the cheese and sprinkle them lightly with black pepper.
Step 10: Bake the pizza for 17 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and the edges are crispy.
Step 11: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 12: Use a spatula to loosen the edges and slide the pizza out of the pan. Slice into 12 pieces and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a different flavor, try adding fresh basil or oregano on top before baking.
Use a mix of cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique twist.
To make the crust extra crispy, preheat the oiled pan in the oven for a few minutes before adding the dough.
If you prefer a thinner crust, gently press the dough thinner before the final rise.

Storage

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices in a skillet over medium heat for a crisp crust or in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

How to Serve

A thick square slice of deep-dish pizza is shown with a golden-brown crust layer at the base that looks soft and spongy. On top of the crust, there is a bright red tomato sauce layer that reaches the edges, followed by a creamy melted white cheese layer that is slightly browned and bubbly, covering the sauce. The topmost layer has round red tomato slices that appear juicy and seasoned with black pepper. The pizza slice is on a wooden board with more similar pizza pieces blurred in the background on a white marbled surface, and a dark grey cloth is partly visible nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and rising in the pan.

Can I use a different type of pan for baking?

A metal pan works best to achieve the signature crispy edges, but a pizza stone can also work if you don’t have a rectangular pan. Just make sure to oil the surface well to prevent sticking.