When it comes to iconic American pizza styles, Detroit pizza stands out with its unique characteristics: a thick, chewy crust, a rectangular shape, and that unforgettable crispy edge where the cheese meets the pan. Originating in the motor city, this pizza style has gained popularity across the globe, and it’s not hard to see why. If you’re looking to create the perfect Detroit pizza at home, you’re in the right place. Below are some essential tips to get you started on making a delicious Detroit pizza, plus a handy tool to generate your custom recipe.
1. Start with the Right Pan
The hallmark of Detroit pizza is its rectangular shape, traditionally baked in a blue steel pan. While these pans are specifically designed for Detroit pizza, you can also use a dark-coloured 9×13-inch baking pan. The darker pan helps achieve that signature crispy crust by conducting heat more efficiently than lighter pans. If you’re serious about your pizza, investing in a Detroit-style pan is worth it, but for beginners, a standard baking pan will do just fine.
2. Perfect the Dough
Detroit pizza dough is distinctively thick and chewy, requiring a balance of strong bread flour, yeast, and plenty of time to rise. Some recipes suggest a 24-hour ferment for optimal flavour, but you can also find quicker versions that yield excellent results in a fraction of the time. After mixing the dough, allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free place. Don’t rush this process—properly risen dough will give you the airy yet chewy texture that defines Detroit pizza.
3. Spread the Dough Carefully
Once your dough has risen, it’s time to spread it in your pan. Unlike other pizzas, Detroit-style dough is quite wet and sticky, so be patient. Use olive oil to coat your fingers, and press the dough out gently, letting it rest intermittently to avoid tearing. This gradual process ensures the dough spreads evenly to the corners, creating the perfect base for your pizza.
4. Get Creative with Cheese
A crucial element of Detroit pizza is the cheese. Traditionally, brick cheese is used, which melts beautifully and creates those crispy, caramelised edges. If brick cheese isn’t available, you can substitute it with a combination of mozzarella and mild cheddar, or even provolone for added flavour. Remember to push the cheese all the way to the edges of the pan—this will create the much-loved crispy, cheesy crust.
5. Layer Your Sauce Last
In Detroit pizza, the sauce is added on top of the cheese, rather than underneath it. This technique, known as “red top,” involves spooning the sauce over the cheese in three straight lines. Not only does this create a striking visual effect, but it also keeps the crust from becoming soggy, preserving that perfect texture.
6. The Perfect Bake
Detroit pizza is typically baked at a high temperature—around 500°F (260°C). This ensures the dough cooks through and the cheese bubbles up, forming that signature caramelised edge. Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. Once done, let the pizza rest for a few minutes before cutting it into squares, and enjoy the contrast of the soft interior and crispy edges.
7. Experiment with Toppings
While classic Detroit pizza is topped with pepperoni, don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings. Think beyond the usual suspects—try banana peppers, mushrooms, sausage, or even a meat-lover’s combo. The beauty of homemade pizza is that you can tailor it to your taste, so feel free to experiment.
Use the Pizza Navigator Detroit Pizza Recipe Generator
Ready to create your own Detroit pizza masterpiece? The Pizza Navigator Detroit Pizza Recipe Generator is a fantastic tool that allows you to customise every aspect of your pizza. Whether you’re adjusting the dough recipe for a specific rise time, selecting your preferred cheese, or experimenting with unique toppings, this tool will guide you through the process. It’s perfect for both novice pizza makers and seasoned chefs looking to try something new.
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