Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Detroit-style pizza has gained popularity across the globe for its unique texture and flavor. Unlike the classic thin or hand-tossed pizza, this style is baked in a rectangular pan, giving it a deep-dish feel with crispy edges and a chewy interior. The signature caramelized cheese crust is created by pressing cheese right up to the edges of the pan, while the toppings are layered under the sauce, making every bite a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you are hosting a family dinner, a casual gathering, or simply craving homemade pizza, this recipe will deliver a restaurant-quality experience right in your kitchen. Its versatility also means you can adapt the toppings to suit your preferences while still enjoying the classic Detroit-style structure that makes it stand out from other pizzas.
Detroit-Style Pizza Recipe: Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistibly Delicious
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 1 large 9×13 pizza (4–6 servings)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Detroit Style Pizza is a thick, rectangular pizza with a light and airy crust, crispy caramelized edges from cheese baked against the pan, and a rich tomato sauce layered on top of gooey mozzarella and brick cheese.
Ingredients
- 3 1/4 cups bread flour
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
- 2 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for greasing pan)
- 8 oz Wisconsin brick cheese, cubed
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 cups pizza sauce
- Optional toppings: pepperoni, sausage, vegetables
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until dough comes together.
- Knead the dough for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Grease a Detroit-style pizza pan or 9×13 baking dish with olive oil. Place dough inside, pressing to edges.
- Cover and let dough rise for 2–3 hours until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Spread cubed brick cheese and mozzarella evenly over dough, all the way to the edges.
- Add desired toppings on top of the cheese.
- Spoon pizza sauce in two or three thick lines across the pizza.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and edges are caramelized.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- For authentic flavor, use Wisconsin brick cheese, but mozzarella works as a substitute.
- Baking in a well-oiled steel pan helps achieve the signature crispy edges.
- Sauce should always be added last, after cheese and toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 2–3 hours rising time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pizza
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Bread flour – Provides the strong gluten structure necessary for a chewy and airy crust. Its high protein content gives the dough the right elasticity for Detroit-style pizza.
Instant yeast – Helps the dough rise efficiently, resulting in a light and fluffy base that balances the crispy edges.
Olive oil – Enhances the dough’s texture, adds flavor, and helps achieve the signature golden crust when baked.
Salt – Essential for flavor, it balances the yeast activity and ensures the dough has depth.
Water – Hydrates the flour, activating the gluten and yeast. Using lukewarm water gives the yeast the best environment to thrive.
Mozzarella cheese – A staple in Detroit pizza, it melts beautifully, creating the gooey layer that stretches with every bite.
Brick cheese – The authentic cheese for this style, lending a sharp, buttery taste and the caramelized edges Detroit pizza is known for.
Pepperoni – A classic topping choice that crisps up in the oven and pairs perfectly with the rich cheese and sauce.
Pizza sauce – Unlike traditional pizzas, the sauce is layered on top of the cheese and toppings, adding tangy tomato flavor that cuts through the richness.
Parmesan cheese – Sprinkled before serving, it adds a savory, nutty finish that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Directions
Start by preparing the dough. In a mixing bowl, combine bread flour, instant yeast, salt, olive oil, and lukewarm water. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead until smooth and elastic. Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size, usually about two hours.
Once risen, press the dough evenly into a well-oiled rectangular pan. The oil will help develop the golden, crispy edges that define Detroit pizza. Stretch the dough gently into the corners, then cover and let it rise again for 30–40 minutes.
Preheat your oven to a high temperature, ideally around 475°F (245°C). Sprinkle the mozzarella and brick cheese generously over the dough, making sure to press some cheese along the pan edges for that signature caramelized crust. Add slices of pepperoni or other toppings of choice. Finally, spoon the pizza sauce in distinct stripes across the top, maintaining the Detroit-style tradition.
Bake until the crust is deep golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and crisp, typically around 15 minutes. Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then sprinkle with Parmesan before slicing into squares.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people. Preparation time takes about 2.5 hours, including dough rising. Baking time is 12–15 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Leftover Detroit-style pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8–10 minutes to restore the crispiness, or reheat in a skillet for an extra crunchy base. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
Variations and Customizations
Vegetarian Detroit Pizza – Skip the pepperoni and add roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions for a flavorful twist.
Meat Lovers – Add layers of Italian sausage, bacon, and ham for a hearty variation.
Spicy Kick – Incorporate jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or hot honey drizzled on top after baking.
White Detroit Pizza – Replace the tomato sauce with a garlic cream sauce and top with spinach and ricotta for a creamy alternative.
BBQ Chicken Detroit Pizza – Swap the red sauce for barbecue sauce, add grilled chicken, red onions, and cheddar cheese.
Four Cheese Delight – Mix mozzarella, brick cheese, provolone, and fontina for a rich, cheesy experience.
Mediterranean Style – Use olives, artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a bold, tangy option.
FAQs
What makes Detroit-style pizza different from other pizzas?
It is baked in a rectangular pan with cheese spread to the edges, creating a caramelized crust and a chewy, airy interior.
Can I use regular mozzarella instead of brick cheese?
Yes, mozzarella works well, but brick cheese provides the authentic flavor and texture.
Do I need a special pan for Detroit-style pizza?
A rectangular steel pan is traditional, but a standard 9×13 baking dish can work as well.
Why is the sauce placed on top?
It prevents the dough from getting soggy and balances the richness of the cheese and toppings.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight and let it come to room temperature before baking.
Is Detroit-style pizza the same as deep-dish pizza?
No, deep-dish is associated with Chicago and is more pie-like, while Detroit-style is lighter with crispy cheese edges.
How do I prevent the crust from sticking?
Make sure to oil the pan generously before pressing in the dough.
Can I freeze Detroit-style pizza?
Yes, bake and cool the pizza, then freeze slices wrapped tightly in foil. Reheat directly in the oven.
What is the best cheese substitute for brick cheese?
A mix of mozzarella and Monterey Jack can be used as a substitute.
How should I slice Detroit-style pizza?
Traditionally, it is cut into squares rather than triangles.
Conclusion
Detroit-style pizza is a unique and satisfying twist on traditional pizza, offering crispy edges, gooey cheese, and a hearty base. With its bold flavors and customizable toppings, it is a recipe worth mastering at home. Whether you keep it classic with pepperoni or explore creative variations, this pizza delivers a memorable dining experience that combines comfort with indulgence. Perfect for sharing, reheating, or freezing, it is a versatile addition to any recipe collection.