Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza

Take a bite out of the Motor City with this Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza! Known for its thick, airy crust, caramelized cheese edges, and a distinctive stripe of tomato sauce on top, this pizza style is as iconic as it is delicious. It’s baked in a rectangular pan, allowing the crust to develop a crispy bottom while staying soft and chewy inside.

Perfect for a family pizza night or a party crowd-pleaser, this recipe brings the authentic flavors of Detroit straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re a pizza purist or an adventurous eater, this Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza is sure to become a favorite.

• Thick and Airy Crust: A light, fluffy base with a satisfying crunch.
• Caramelized Cheese Edges: Crispy, golden perfection that’s uniquely Detroit.
• Bold and Flavorful: Layers of melty cheese and rich tomato sauce.
• Easy to Make: A simple recipe that delivers pizzeria-quality results.

Exciting Story

The first time I tasted Detroit-Style Pizza, I was visiting a friend in Michigan who insisted we try this local classic. As the piping-hot pan arrived, the crispy, cheese-crusted edges and the bold red sauce stripes caught my eye. One bite, and I was hooked—the combination of textures and flavors was unlike anything I’d ever tried.

Back home, I couldn’t stop thinking about that pizza. Determined to recreate it, I experimented until I perfected this recipe. Now, it’s a staple in our house, bringing a little taste of Detroit to our table every time we make it.

Why This Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Authentic Style: All the hallmarks of Detroit pizza, from the pan to the crispy edges.
• Customizable Toppings: Make it your own with your favorite additions.
• Family-Friendly: Fun to make and even more fun to eat!
• Better Than Takeout: Fresh, homemade, and irresistibly delicious.

What You Need for Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza

For the Dough:

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Toppings:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Your favorite toppings (pepperoni, sausage, veggies, etc.)

How to Make Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) and grease a 9×13-inch rectangular pan or Detroit-style pizza pan generously with olive oil.
2. Punch down the dough and press it evenly into the prepared pan. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes to relax the gluten and make it easier to spread.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

1. Spread the shredded mozzarella and white cheddar cheese evenly across the dough, making sure the cheese touches the edges of the pan. This creates the signature crispy, caramelized edges.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

1. Bake the pizza on the lowest rack of the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese begins to bubble and brown.

Step 5: Add the Sauce

1. Remove the pizza from the oven and spoon the pizza sauce in two or three stripes down the length of the pizza. Add any desired toppings.
2. Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is caramelized.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the pizza cool in the pan for 5 minutes before using a spatula to loosen the edges. Slice into squares and serve hot.

Tips for Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza

1. Use the Right Pan: A dark, rectangular pan helps achieve the crispy, caramelized edges.
2. Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Make sure the cheese touches the edges of the pan for authentic results.

Substitutions and Variations

• Different Cheeses: Experiment with Monterey Jack or provolone for a unique twist.
• Gluten-Free Dough: Use a gluten-free pizza dough recipe or mix.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for some heat.

Make a Healthier Version

• Whole-Wheat Dough: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole-wheat flour.
• Lighter Cheese: Use reduced-fat cheese to cut calories.
• Low-Sodium Sauce: Opt for a low-sodium pizza sauce or make your own.

Closing for Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza

And there you have it—Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza, a delicious, crowd-pleasing recipe that brings the flavors of the Motor City to your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned pizza maker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, and don’t forget to explore our other pizza recipes for more inspiration

Frequently Asked Questions for Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
   Yes, store-bought dough works, but homemade dough gives the best texture and flavor.
2. What if I don’t have a Detroit-style pizza pan?
   A 9×13-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet works well as a substitute.
3. How do I prevent the crust from sticking?
   Generously grease the pan with olive oil to create a non-stick surface.
4. Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.
5. What toppings are traditional for Detroit-style pizza?
   Pepperoni is classic, but you can use any toppings you like.
6. Can I use fresh mozzarella?
   Yes, but combine it with shredded cheese to maintain the crispy edges.
7. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Reheat slices in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness.
8. What makes Detroit-style pizza unique?
   The thick, airy crust and caramelized cheese edges set it apart from other styles.
9. Can I freeze this pizza?
   Yes, bake and cool the pizza completely before freezing in an airtight container.
10. How do I make a vegetarian version?
    Skip the meat and load up on veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives.
11. Can I add the sauce before baking?
    Adding the sauce after the first bake prevents the crust from becoming soggy.
12. What if I don’t have instant yeast?
    Use active dry yeast, but let it proof in warm water with sugar before mixing into the dough.