Detroit-Style Pizza Recipe (Pizza Oven Version)

Detroit-style pizza is a true American culinary classic. Known for its crispy caramelized cheese edges and airy, focaccia-like crust, this iconic pizza has gained widespread popularity, especially among pizza enthusiasts. The unique square shape, the rich combination of cheese and sauce, and its perfect crust make it a standout choice. If you’re craving a crispy yet soft crust with gooey cheese and a tangy sauce, then you are in for a treat with this Detroit-style pizza recipe, specially crafted for the pizza oven!

In this guide, we’ll explore every detail about creating authentic Detroit-style pizza in a pizza oven, including the dough, sauce, ingredients, and cooking process. By the end, you’ll be ready to impress your friends and family with a homemade, delicious Detroit-style pizza!

What is Detroit-Style Pizza?

Detroit-style pizza is a distinct regional pizza originating from Detroit, Michigan. What sets it apart from traditional pizza is its rectangular shape and thick, airy crust, which gives it a satisfying texture that’s both light and crisp. A hallmark feature of this pizza is its cheese-to-the-edge technique, where cheese is pushed all the way to the corners, creating a crispy, caramelized “frico” around the edges. The sauce is spread over the cheese, not beneath it, and the toppings can range from classic pepperoni to more unique combinations.

Traditionally, the pizza is made in a Detroit-style pizza pan, which is typically a 10×14 inch rectangular steel pan. This pan is essential for getting the signature crust and caramelized cheese edges.

Origin of Detroit-Style Pizza

The creation of Detroit-style pizza is credited to Buddy’s Rendezvous, a popular Detroit pizzeria that first introduced this distinct style of pizza in the 1940s. The legend goes that the pizza was initially baked in blue steel pans that were originally used to hold small parts at the nearby Detroit auto factory. These pans were repurposed to bake pizza, and their heat-retaining properties gave the crust its signature crispy, golden brown bottom.

Over time, Detroit-style pizza has gained a strong following, with pizzerias across the country replicating the distinctive style, each adding their own twist to the classic recipe.

Ingredients with Quantity

To make an authentic Detroit-style pizza in a pizza oven, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 cups bread flour
• 1¼ cups warm water (70-75°F)
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sugar

Sauce:

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Assembly:

• 12 oz Wisconsin brick cheese, cubed (or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar)
• 4 oz pepperoni, diced (optional)
• 2 tbsp olive oil for greasing the pan
• Grated Parmesan for finishing

Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method of Detroit-Style Pizza from Scratch

1. Make the Dough (Day Before or 3+ Hours Ahead)

Start the process by preparing the dough. This step is essential for developing flavor and texture.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to activate the yeast.
2. Add bread flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough by hand for 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise at room temperature for about 2 hours.
5. For the best flavor, cold ferment the dough by refrigerating it for 12-72 hours.

2. Prepare the Sauce

While the dough is fermenting, prepare the sauce to enhance the flavors.

1. In a bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and olive oil.
2. Stir the ingredients together and let the sauce sit at room temperature to allow the flavors to blend.
3. Note: Traditional Detroit-style pizza has the sauce placed on top of the cheese, not beneath it.

3. Prepare the Pan and Shape the Dough

Now, let’s prepare the pan and shape the dough for baking.

1. Generously oil your Detroit-style pizza pan (10×14 inches) with olive oil to ensure the crust becomes crispy.
2. Remove the dough from the refrigerator 30 minutes before shaping. This will make the dough easier to work with.
3. Gently stretch the dough to fit the pan, working from the center outward. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly covered at first—let it relax and stretch naturally.
4. Cover the dough and let it rise for 30-45 minutes, allowing it to become puffy and airy.

4. Add Toppings

Here comes the fun part—adding the cheese, toppings, and sauce!

1. Start by distributing cubed cheese evenly over the dough, ensuring some cheese reaches the edges for that signature caramelization.
2. If you’re using pepperoni, sprinkle it evenly over the cheese.
3. Dollop the sauce in 3-4 spoonfuls across the pizza’s surface, but don’t spread it out entirely—let it remain in blobs.

5. Pizza Oven Setup

Preheat your pizza oven to 500-550°F (260-290°C) to replicate the traditional high heat used for Detroit-style pizza.

1. If using a wood-fired pizza oven, allow the flames to die down, and let the heat stabilize before baking.
2. Place the rack in the center of the oven for even heat distribution.

6. Bake the Pizza

It’s time to bake your pizza!

1. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating the pizza halfway through for even browning.
2. Look for a golden, crispy bottom, caramelized cheese edges (also called “frico”), bubbling sauce, and an internal temperature of 200°F in the crust.

7. Finishing Touches

Once the pizza is baked to perfection, finish it off with these final steps:

1. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 2-3 minutes.
2. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the pizza while it’s still hot.
3. Use a thin spatula to gently release the caramelized cheese from the edges of the pan.
4. Cut the pizza into squares and serve immediately!

Detroit-Style Pizza Characteristics

What Makes It Authentic?

Several key factors define Detroit-style pizza:

• Rectangular shape: The pizza is baked in a rectangular pan, which contributes to its distinct appearance.
• Thick, airy crust: The dough is light and fluffy, with a crispy bottom.
• Cheese to the edges: The cheese extends all the way to the edges of the pan, creating a crispy, caramelized layer of cheese known as “frico.”
• Sauce on top: The sauce is spread over the cheese, creating a unique flavor combination.
• Wisconsin brick cheese: Traditionally, Detroit-style pizza uses Wisconsin brick cheese, but you can use a combination of mozzarella and cheddar for a similar taste.

Pizza Oven Adaptations:

To achieve the perfect Detroit-style pizza, you’ll need to adjust your pizza oven technique:

• Lower temperature: The oven should be heated to 500-550°F, which is lower than the temperature for Neapolitan pizza.
• Longer cooking time: Bake the pizza for 12-15 minutes to allow the crust to become crispy.
• Use the pan: Don’t place the pizza directly on the oven floor; the pan is crucial for getting the right texture and shape.
• Rotate the pizza: Be mindful of hot spots in your oven, and rotate the pizza halfway through cooking to ensure even heat distribution.

Variations of Detroit-Style Pizza

Detroit-style pizza is highly versatile and can be adapted to suit a variety of tastes.

Cheese Options:

• Traditional: Use Wisconsin brick cheese for the most authentic flavor.
• Popular substitutes: A mix of 60% mozzarella and 40% sharp cheddar provides a rich, melty result.
• Gourmet: For an elevated flavor, try adding fontina or provolone to your cheese mix.

Topping Ideas:

• Classic Pepperoni: Diced pepperoni is a classic topping for Detroit-style pizza, placed under the cheese for maximum flavor.
• Sausage & Peppers: Italian sausage and bell peppers make for a hearty topping combination.
• Mushroom & Onion: Sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions add an earthy, savory depth to your pizza.
• Veggie Supreme: A mix of bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and olives creates a deliciously fresh and vibrant topping.

FAQs About Pizza Oven Detroit Style

Can I use regular flour instead of bread flour for the dough?

While you can use all-purpose flour, bread flour is preferred as it has a higher protein content, which helps create the perfect texture for the dough.

What is the best way to reheat leftover Detroit-style pizza?

Reheat your pizza in an oven or pizza oven at a low temperature (around 350°F) for about 10-12 minutes to retain its crispy crust.

How long does the dough need to rise?

For best results, the dough should rise for at least 2 hours at room temperature. For enhanced flavor, allow it to cold ferment in the refrigerator for 12-72 hours.

Conclusion: Enjoying Homemade Detroit Pizza

In conclusion, this pizza offers an incredibly unique and satisfying pizza experience. With its thick, airy crust, crispy cheese edges, and tangy sauce on top, this style of pizza is unlike any other. By following the recipe and techniques shared above, you can easily replicate this beloved dish at home using your pizza oven. Whether you stick to the classic cheese and pepperoni or explore other topping variations, your homemade Detroit-style pizza is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Enjoy your pizza-making adventure, and remember, the perfect Detroit-style pizza is just a few simple ingredients and techniques away! Happy baking!

Detroit-Style Pizza Recipe (Pizza Oven Version)

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• Author: David Andersson
• Total Time: ~3 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 slices
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Detroit-style pizza is a distinct regional pizza originating from Detroit, Michigan. What sets it apart from traditional pizza is its rectangular shape and thick, airy crust, which gives it a satisfying texture that’s both light and crisp. A hallmark feature of this pizza is its cheese-to-the-edge technique, where cheese is pushed all the way to the corners, creating a crispy, caramelized “frico” around the edges. The sauce is spread over the cheese, not beneath it, and the toppings can range from classic pepperoni to more unique combinations.

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 cups bread flour

• 1¼ cups warm water (70-75°F)

• 2 tsp active dry yeast

• 2 tsp kosher salt

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp sugar

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp olive oil

For Assembly:

• 12 oz Wisconsin brick cheese, cubed (or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar)

• 4 oz pepperoni, diced (optional)

• 2 tbsp olive oil for greasing the pan

• Grated Parmesan for finishing

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Instructions

1. Make the Dough (Day Before or 3+ Hours Ahead)

Start the process by preparing the dough. This step is essential for developing flavor and texture.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to activate the yeast.

2. Add bread flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Knead the dough by hand for 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

4. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise at room temperature for about 2 hours.

5. For the best flavor, cold ferment the dough by refrigerating it for 12-72 hours.

2. Prepare the Sauce

While the dough is fermenting, prepare the sauce to enhance the flavors.

1. In a bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and olive oil.

2. Stir the ingredients together and let the sauce sit at room temperature to allow the flavors to blend.

3. Note: Traditional Detroit-style pizza has the sauce placed on top of the cheese, not beneath it.

3. Prepare the Pan and Shape the Dough

Now, let’s prepare the pan and shape the dough for baking.

1. Generously oil your Detroit-style pizza pan (10×14 inches) with olive oil to ensure the crust becomes crispy.

2. Remove the dough from the refrigerator 30 minutes before shaping. This will make the dough easier to work with.

3. Gently stretch the dough to fit the pan, working from the center outward. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly covered at first—let it relax and stretch naturally.

4. Cover the dough and let it rise for 30-45 minutes, allowing it to become puffy and airy.

4. Add Toppings

Here comes the fun part—adding the cheese, toppings, and sauce!

1. Start by distributing cubed cheese evenly over the dough, ensuring some cheese reaches the edges for that signature caramelization.

2. If you’re using pepperoni, sprinkle it evenly over the cheese.

3. Dollop the sauce in 3-4 spoonfuls across the pizza’s surface, but don’t spread it out entirely—let it remain in blobs.

5. Pizza Oven Setup

Preheat your pizza oven to 500-550°F (260-290°C) to replicate the traditional high heat used for Detroit-style pizza.

1. If using a wood-fired pizza oven, allow the flames to die down, and let the heat stabilize before baking.

2. Place the rack in the center of the oven for even heat distribution.

6. Bake the Pizza

It’s time to bake your pizza!

1. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating the pizza halfway through for even browning.

2. Look for a golden, crispy bottom, caramelized cheese edges (also called “frico”), bubbling sauce, and an internal temperature of 200°F in the crust.

7. Finishing Touches

Once the pizza is baked to perfection, finish it off with these final steps:

1. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 2-3 minutes.

2. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the pizza while it’s still hot.

3. Use a thin spatula to gently release the caramelized cheese from the edges of the pan.

4. Cut the pizza into squares and serve immediately!

Notes

With its signature thick crust, crispy edges, and layers of gooey cheese, this Detroit-style pizza is a true crowd-pleaser. Customize it with your favorite toppings, and don’t forget to let the cheese caramelize up the sides for that authentic pizzeria finish!

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 2–3 hours rising time)
• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: Moderate

Keywords: Pizza Oven Detroit Pizza