Detroit-style pizza is a delicious variation you need to try! Originating from Buddy's Rendezvous in 1946, it features a thick, chewy crust with a signature caramelized cheese edge. Made using Sicilian dough and Wisconsin brick cheese, it's baked in blue steel pans for the perfect crispiness. The cheese goes on first, followed by sauce and toppings. It's a pizza that's rich in history and flavor—keep exploring to discover how to make it yourself!
History
Detroit-style pizza has a rich history that dates back to 1946, when Gus and Anna Guerra first developed it at Buddy's Rendezvous in Detroit.
They utilized Sicilian dough baked in blue steel pans, originally sourced from local automotive suppliers as drip trays. This innovative use contributed to the pizza's unique crust texture, setting it apart from other styles.
Buddy's Pizza became the first establishment to serve this culinary symbol of Detroit, capturing the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
The style gained national popularity in the 2010s, with figures like Tony Gemignani showcasing its charm. Notable restaurants, including Via 313 in Austin, Texas, have celebrated its distinct characteristics, further solidifying its place in the pizza world.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 ½ cups bread flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons instant yeast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 ¾ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 pound Wisconsin brick cheese, shredded
- 1 ½ cups pizza sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar (for sauce)
- Olive oil (for greasing the pan)
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. Gradually add the warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm environment until it doubles in size, approximately 2 hours.
Once risen, preheat your oven to 500°F. Grease a 10 by 14-inch rectangular pan with olive oil. Stretch the dough into the pan, ensuring it reaches the edges.
Sprinkle the shredded Wisconsin brick cheese evenly over the dough, then spoon the sauce mixture (combined with garlic powder, oregano, and sugar) over the cheese.
Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown, the cheese is bubbling, and the edges are slightly blackened.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, make sure to use a dark metal pan to enhance the crispiness of the crust.
If you want to experiment with toppings, consider adding them under the sauce to prevent them from burning during the high-temperature baking.
Additionally, letting the dough rest longer can improve the flavor; a cold fermentation in the fridge overnight can develop even more depth.
Finally, keep an eye on the pizza as it bakes; every oven is different, and you want to catch that perfect golden-brown color without overcooking.
Enjoy your homemade Detroit-style pizza!
Cooking Steps
Before you start baking, preheat your oven to a scorching 500°F.
When assembling your pizza, remember to add the cheese before the sauce for that signature flavor.
Spread your toppings evenly and bake until the edges are golden brown for the perfect crispiness.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 500°F
To achieve that perfect crispy crust, preheat your oven to a scorching 500°F (260°C). This high heat is essential for ideal browning and crispiness, ensuring your Detroit-style pizza turns out just right.
Make sure the oven is thoroughly preheated before placing the pizza inside; this step helps you reach the desired texture and doneness in about 12 to 15 minutes.
For the best results, position the pizza on a Baking Steel or directly on the oven floor to enhance heat conduction.
Keep an eye on the pizza, looking for signs of doneness like sizzling cheese and a lightly browned top.
Adjust the cooking time as needed based on your oven's heating consistency to avoid undercooking or burning.
Step 2. Add Cheese Before Sauce
When you're ready to assemble your Detroit-style pizza, adding the cheese first is crucial for achieving that signature crispy edge.
Start by spreading about 12 ounces of diced Wisconsin brick cheese evenly over the dough, making certain it reaches the edges of the pizza pan. This high-fat cheese melts beautifully, creating a delicious, crispy cheese crust known as frico. The cheese will caramelize while baking, enhancing the flavor and texture.
After the pizza has baked to perfection, you can add your seasoned tomato sauce on top, either in racing stripes or all over, depending on your preference. This method not only elevates your pizza recipe but also guarantees a delightful contrast between the warm cheese and the sauce.
Step 3. Add Toppings Evenly Distributed
As you prepare to add toppings to your Detroit-style pizza, it's vital to distribute them evenly across the surface.
Start by spreading about 12 ounces of diced cheese all the way to the edges of the pan; this secures a crispy, caramelized crust known as frico.
For the pepperoni, you can place some under the cheese for a deeper flavor and some on top for that satisfying crunch. This combination enhances the overall taste.
Finally, layer the sauce in lines or stripes over the cheese, reserving a bit for later if you want to add more flavor just before serving.
This careful distribution of toppings guarantees every slice delivers a balanced and delicious bite.
Step 4. Bake Until Golden Brown
Preheat your oven to a scorching 500°F to 550°F (260°C to 290°C) for the best results.
For your Detroit-style pizza, place it directly on a preheated Baking Steel or the oven floor to enhance heat conduction, ensuring a crispy crust.
Bake until golden brown for about 12 to 15 minutes, keeping an eye out for the cheese to sizzle and the top to turn lightly browned—these are your signs of doneness.
Before adding your sauce on top, remember to press down on the dough to eliminate air bubbles; this helps maintain the pizza's structure and promotes even baking.
Achieving that perfect balance of ideal browning and texture is what makes your pizza a true delight!
Step 5. Let It Cool Briefly
After baking your Detroit-style pizza to perfection, let it cool briefly for about 5 minutes.
This cooling period is essential for the cheese to set, making slicing much easier. If you cut into it right away, you might find the toppings sliding off due to excess heat.
As it cools, those crispy cheese edges, known as frico, firm up, enhancing the texture and creating a delightful crunch.
Plus, allowing the flavors to meld together during this time will provide a more satisfying taste experience.
To serve, gently use a fish spatula to loosen the edges before transferring the pizza to your cutting board.
Now, you're ready to slice and enjoy your delicious creation!
Final Thoughts
While many pizza styles compete for attention, Detroit-style pizza stands out with its unique characteristics and rich history.
Its thick, chewy crust, typically 1½ inches thick, becomes a crispy masterpiece thanks to a baking process that utilizes high oven temperatures of 500 to 550°F. The gooey Wisconsin brick cheese, often complemented by pepperoni, creates a delightful textural contrast with the robust, flavorful pizza sauce seasoned with garlic and oregano.
As the cheese spreads to the edges during baking, it forms that coveted caramelized edge. Since its debut in 1946 at Buddy's Rendezvous, Detroit-style pizza has captured hearts across the United States, making it a must-try for any pizza lover.
Embrace this delicious slice of history!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes a Pizza a Detroit-Style Pizza?
To make a pizza a Detroit-style pizza, you need a thick, chewy crust with a crispy, fried bottom.
You should use high-hydration dough, and assemble it in a deep rectangular pan.
Spread Wisconsin brick cheese to the edges for that caramelized flavor, then add your toppings.
Finally, you can drizzle a flavorful tomato sauce on top after baking.
This unique assembly and texture set it apart from other pizza styles you might know.
What Is the Difference Between Detroit and Chicago Style Pizza?
When you plunge into the delightful world of pizza, you'll notice some charming differences between the Detroit and Chicago styles.
Detroit's thick, rectangular slices boast a crispy, golden crust and a lovely layering of cheese beneath the sauce.
In contrast, Chicago's deep-dish offers a buttery, round shape with sauce on top.
While Detroit's crust is chewy and light, Chicago's delivers a heartier, denser experience.
Each style has its own delicious personality waiting for you to explore!
Is Detroit-Style Pizza Just Focaccia?
No, Detroit-style pizza isn't just focaccia.
While both share a thick, chewy crust, their preparation and ingredients differ considerably.
You'll find that focaccia is usually seasoned with oil and herbs, whereas Detroit-style pizza layers cheese directly on the dough, with sauce added afterward.
Plus, the baking method and crumb structure create distinct textures and flavors.
What Is Detroit-Style Vs Sicilian Style Pizza?
When you compare Detroit-style to Sicilian-style pizza, you'll notice key differences.
Detroit-style often has a thick, chewy crust baked in a rectangular pan, while Sicilian-style is typically thicker and square-shaped.
The cheese in Detroit-style goes directly on the dough, creating a crispy edge, whereas Sicilian usually features sauce on top of the cheese.
Both styles use various toppings, but their textures and preparations set them apart, offering unique experiences for pizza lovers.
