When it comes to thick-crusted, cheesy, and utterly delicious pizzas, two styles often come to mind: Detroit-style and deep dish. While both styles have gained popularity across the United States, many people assume they are one and the same. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In this article, we’ll delve into the history, characteristics, and differences between Detroit-style pizza and deep dish pizza, so you can make an informed decision the next time you’re craving a thick-crusted pie.
A Brief History of Detroit-Style Pizza
Detroit-style pizza originated in the 1940s in Detroit, Michigan, courtesy of Buddy’s Restaurant, a local eatery founded by Gus Guerra and Connie Piccinato. The story goes that Guerra, a former employee of the famous Buddy’s Restaurant in Detroit, created the square, thick-crusted pizza as a way to differentiate his restaurant from others in the area. The original Detroit-style pizza was baked in a well-oiled pan, which gave the crust its signature crunch and flavor.
The Characteristics of Detroit-Style Pizza
So, what makes a Detroit-style pizza? Here are some key characteristics:
- Square shape: Detroit-style pizzas are baked in a square pan and cut into square slices, often referred to as “square pies.”
- Thick crust: The crust is thick and crispy, with a crunchy bottom and a chewy interior.
- Cheese on top: Unlike traditional pizzas, Detroit-style pizzas feature a thick layer of cheese on top of the dough, which is then baked until golden brown.
- Pepperoni on top: Pepperoni is a staple topping for Detroit-style pizzas, and it’s often placed on top of the cheese.
- Sauce on the side: The sauce is served on the side, rather than on top of the pizza.
A Brief History of Deep Dish Pizza
Deep dish pizza, on the other hand, originated in Chicago, Illinois, in the 1940s. The story goes that Pizzeria Uno, a local restaurant founded by Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo, created the deep dish pizza as a way to differentiate their restaurant from others in the area. The original deep dish pizza featured a thick crust, thick layers of cheese and meats, and a thick tomato sauce on top.
The Characteristics of Deep Dish Pizza
So, what makes a deep dish pizza? Here are some key characteristics:
- Thick crust: Deep dish pizzas feature a thick crust, often formed into a deep pan and topped with a thick layer of cheese and meats.
- Thick layers of cheese and meats: Deep dish pizzas are known for their thick layers of cheese and meats, which are often stacked on top of each other.
- Thick tomato sauce: The tomato sauce is a key component of deep dish pizzas, and it’s often served on top of the cheese and meats.
- Baked in a deep pan: Deep dish pizzas are baked in a deep pan, which gives the crust its signature shape and texture.
Key Differences Between Detroit-Style and Deep Dish Pizza
Now that we’ve explored the history and characteristics of both Detroit-style and deep dish pizza, let’s dive into the key differences between the two.
- Crust: While both styles feature a thick crust, the crust on a Detroit-style pizza is crispy on the bottom and chewy on the inside, whereas the crust on a deep dish pizza is often more doughy and less crispy.
- Cheese: Detroit-style pizzas feature a thick layer of cheese on top of the dough, whereas deep dish pizzas feature a thick layer of cheese and meats stacked on top of each other.
- Sauce: Detroit-style pizzas serve the sauce on the side, whereas deep dish pizzas feature a thick tomato sauce on top of the cheese and meats.
- Shape: Detroit-style pizzas are baked in a square pan and cut into square slices, whereas deep dish pizzas are baked in a deep pan and often cut into wedges.
Which Style is Better?
Ultimately, the decision between Detroit-style and deep dish pizza comes down to personal preference. If you like a crispy crust, a thick layer of cheese on top, and a side of sauce, then Detroit-style pizza may be the way to go. If you prefer a thick, doughy crust, thick layers of cheese and meats, and a thick tomato sauce on top, then deep dish pizza may be more your style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both Detroit-style and deep dish pizza are delicious and popular styles, they are not the same. Detroit-style pizza features a crispy crust, a thick layer of cheese on top, and a side of sauce, whereas deep dish pizza features a thick, doughy crust, thick layers of cheese and meats, and a thick tomato sauce on top. Whether you’re a fan of one style or the other, or you’re just looking to try something new, we hope this article has provided you with a better understanding of the differences between these two beloved pizza styles.
Try it Out!
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try making your own Detroit-style or deep dish pizza at home? Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Detroit-Style Pizza Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pepperoni
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and olive oil. Let sit for 5 minutes.
- Add salt, flour, and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead dough for 5 minutes.
- Place dough in a greased 9×13-inch pan.
- Top with mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, pepperoni, onion, and bell pepper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Deep Dish Pizza Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pepperoni
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 cup tomato sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and olive oil. Let sit for 5 minutes.
- Add salt, flour, and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead dough for 5 minutes.
- Place dough in a greased 9-inch deep-dish pan.
- Top with mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, pepperoni, onion, and bell pepper.
- Spread tomato sauce on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
We hope you enjoy trying out these recipes and exploring the world of Detroit-style and deep dish pizza!
What is Detroit-Style Pizza?
Detroit-Style Pizza is a type of square-cut pizza that originated in Detroit, Michigan. It is known for its thick crust, crispy edges, and gooey cheese. The crust is formed into a square shape and topped with a thick layer of cheese and pepperoni, which is then baked in a well-oiled pan. This style of pizza is often associated with Buddy’s Pizza, a Detroit-based restaurant that has been serving it since 1946.
The unique cooking process and ingredients used in Detroit-Style Pizza give it a distinct flavor and texture. The crust is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, while the cheese is melted to perfection. The pepperoni is crispy and adds a smoky flavor to the pizza. Overall, Detroit-Style Pizza is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for those who love a thick, cheesy crust.
What is Deep Dish Pizza?
Deep Dish Pizza is a type of pizza that originated in Chicago, Illinois. It is known for its thick crust, thick layers of cheese, meats, and vegetables, and a thick tomato sauce on top. The crust is formed into a deep pan and topped with a thick layer of cheese, meats, and vegetables, which is then covered with a thick layer of tomato sauce. This style of pizza is often associated with Pizzeria Uno, a Chicago-based restaurant that has been serving it since 1943.
The unique cooking process and ingredients used in Deep Dish Pizza give it a distinct flavor and texture. The crust is flaky and buttery, while the cheese is melted to perfection. The meats and vegetables add flavor and texture to the pizza, while the tomato sauce adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. Overall, Deep Dish Pizza is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for those who love a thick, cheesy crust and a variety of toppings.
What are the main differences between Detroit-Style Pizza and Deep Dish Pizza?
The main differences between Detroit-Style Pizza and Deep Dish Pizza are the crust, toppings, and cooking process. Detroit-Style Pizza has a thick, crispy crust that is formed into a square shape, while Deep Dish Pizza has a thick, flaky crust that is formed into a deep pan. Detroit-Style Pizza is topped with a thick layer of cheese and pepperoni, while Deep Dish Pizza is topped with a thick layer of cheese, meats, and vegetables, and a thick tomato sauce on top.
Another difference between the two styles of pizza is the cooking process. Detroit-Style Pizza is baked in a well-oiled pan, which gives the crust a crispy edge and a soft center. Deep Dish Pizza, on the other hand, is baked in a deep pan and covered with a thick layer of tomato sauce, which gives the crust a flaky texture and a buttery flavor. Overall, the two styles of pizza have distinct flavors and textures that set them apart from each other.
Which style of pizza is better, Detroit-Style or Deep Dish?
The answer to this question ultimately depends on personal preference. Both Detroit-Style Pizza and Deep Dish Pizza are delicious and satisfying meals that are perfect for pizza lovers. If you prefer a thick, crispy crust and a gooey cheese, then Detroit-Style Pizza may be the better choice. If you prefer a thick, flaky crust and a variety of toppings, then Deep Dish Pizza may be the better choice.
It’s also worth noting that both styles of pizza have their own unique flavors and textures that are worth trying. Detroit-Style Pizza has a distinct flavor and texture that is unlike any other style of pizza, while Deep Dish Pizza has a hearty and satisfying flavor that is perfect for those who love a thick, cheesy crust. Ultimately, the best style of pizza is the one that you enjoy the most.
Can I make Detroit-Style Pizza and Deep Dish Pizza at home?
Yes, you can make both Detroit-Style Pizza and Deep Dish Pizza at home. To make Detroit-Style Pizza, you will need a square baking pan, a thick crust, and a variety of toppings such as cheese, pepperoni, and sauce. To make Deep Dish Pizza, you will need a deep-dish pizza pan, a thick crust, and a variety of toppings such as cheese, meats, and vegetables.
To make both styles of pizza, you will need to follow a recipe and use the right ingredients and cooking techniques. You can find recipes for both Detroit-Style Pizza and Deep Dish Pizza online or in cookbooks. It’s also worth noting that making pizza at home can be a fun and rewarding experience, and it allows you to customize your pizza to your liking.
What are some popular toppings for Detroit-Style Pizza and Deep Dish Pizza?
Some popular toppings for Detroit-Style Pizza include pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. The toppings are typically spread out in a symmetrical pattern and are cooked until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Some popular toppings for Deep Dish Pizza include sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers, as well as a variety of cheeses such as mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan.
The toppings for both styles of pizza are typically cooked until they are hot and bubbly, and the cheese is melted to perfection. The toppings can be customized to your liking, and you can choose from a variety of meats, vegetables, and cheeses to create your perfect pizza.
Are Detroit-Style Pizza and Deep Dish Pizza healthy options?
Detroit-Style Pizza and Deep Dish Pizza are not typically considered healthy options. Both styles of pizza are high in calories, fat, and sodium, and are often made with processed meats and cheeses. However, there are ways to make both styles of pizza healthier by using whole-wheat crusts, reducing the amount of cheese and meat, and adding more vegetables.
It’s also worth noting that both styles of pizza can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. If you are looking for a healthier pizza option, you may want to consider making your own pizza at home using healthier ingredients and cooking techniques. Additionally, many restaurants now offer healthier pizza options, such as whole-wheat crusts and vegetarian toppings.