Print

Crispy Cast Iron Deep Dish Pizza Recipe with Caramelized Onion and Sausage

crispy cast iron deep dish pizza - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy homemade deep dish pizza cooked in a cast iron skillet, featuring a crispy crust, caramelized onions, and savory sausage for a comforting and delicious meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour, preferably unbleached
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dough)
  • ¾ cup (180 ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 8 ounces (225 g) Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for caramelizing onions)
  • 1 ½ cups (150 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (240 ml) crushed tomatoes or pizza sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnishes: fresh basil leaves, red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Add olive oil and warm water. Stir until dough starts to come together.
  2. Knead the dough: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with dough hook for 5-6 minutes. Cover with a damp towel and let rise in a warm spot for 45 minutes to 1 hour until doubled.
  3. Caramelize the onions: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally for 30-40 minutes until golden brown and sweet.
  4. Cook the sausage: In a separate pan, cook sausage over medium heat, breaking it up until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
  5. Preheat oven and skillet: Place cast iron skillet in oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C) for at least 20 minutes.
  6. Assemble the pizza: Punch down dough and roll or press into a 12-inch circle. Remove hot skillet from oven, drizzle with olive oil to coat bottom and sides. Press dough into skillet, reaching edges.
  7. Add toppings: Spread crushed tomatoes or pizza sauce evenly over dough. Sprinkle minced garlic and dried oregano. Layer caramelized onions and cooked sausage. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
  8. Bake: Return skillet to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until crust is golden and crisp and cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Watch closely after 20 minutes to avoid burning.
  9. Finish and serve: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and red pepper flakes if desired. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

Preheat the cast iron skillet well before adding dough for a crispy crust. Use enough olive oil to prevent sticking. Caramelize onions slowly over low heat for best flavor. If crust browns too fast, tent with foil. Dough can be prepared ahead and refrigerated overnight. Reheat leftovers in a hot skillet or oven to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: deep dish pizza, cast iron pizza, caramelized onion, sausage pizza, homemade pizza, crispy crust, easy pizza recipe

Find it online: https://emmaoven.com/crispy-cast-iron-deep-dish-pizza-recipe-with-caramelized-onion-and-sausage-perfect-for-homemade-pizza-night/