Detroit-Style Pepperoni Pizza

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Saramin (@678sarin)

A delicious Detroit-style pizza with a crispy crust, layered with pepperoni, cheese, and marinara sauce.

Prep Time
1hr 30min
Cook Time
15min
Total Time
1hr 45min
Detroit-Style Pepperoni Pizza recipe

Ingredients

8 Servings
(1 serving = 1 slice)

For the dough

  • 1cup
    warm water
  • 1/4oz
    active dry yeast
  • 1tsp
    white sugar
  • 3tsp
    olive oil
  • 1tsp
    kosher salt
  • 2 1/2cups
    bread flour

For the sauce

  • 24oz
    marinara sauce

For the seasonings

  • 1tsp
    red pepper flakes
  • 1tsp
    garlic powder

Toppings

  • 8oz
    shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 4oz
    mild Cheddar cheese
  • 8oz
    thick pepperoni slices

How to make Detroit-Style Pepperoni Pizza

To Make the Dough in a Stand Mixer

  1. Pour warm water into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment.

  2. Stir in yeast and sugar and let dissolve.

  3. Add 2 teaspoons olive oil, salt, and bread flour.

  4. Mix together with a dough hook attachment until the dough becomes a smooth, silky ball.

To Make the Dough by Hand

  1. Pour warm water into a large bowl.

  2. Stir in yeast and sugar and let dissolve.

  3. Add 2 teaspoons olive oil, salt, and bread flour.

  4. Stir with a wooden spoon until a rough ball of dough forms.

  5. Allow dough to relax for 10 minutes.

  6. Turn dough out onto a countertop and knead until the dough becomes a smooth, silky ball.

Prepare the Pan and Dough

  1. Pour the remaining olive oil onto the bottom of a 10×14-inch Detroit-style pizza pan.

  2. Spread the oil around evenly with your fingers.

  3. Place the dough in the center of the pan.

  4. Gradually pull and stretch into a rectangular shape with oiled fingers.

  5. Cover and set aside in a warm place until the dough has roughly doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Prepare Sauce and Cheese

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine marinara sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder.

  2. Simmer over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes.

  3. Cut Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese into small cubes.

  4. Place in a bowl and toss lightly to mix together.

Assemble and Bake the Pizza

  1. Preheat the oven to 500 to 550 degrees F (260 to 288 degrees C).

  2. Rub your fingertips with some olive oil from the pan.

  3. Press down on the dough and spread it toward the edges.

  4. Continue to stretch the dough up the sides about 1/2 inch.

  5. Place a layer of pepperoni on top of the dough.

  6. Place cheese cubes evenly on top, covering to the very edge of the pan.

  7. Pour sauce on top in 3 long strips.

  8. Place another layer of pepperoni over the sauce.

  9. Bake in preheated oven until pizza becomes golden brown, about 15 minutes.

  10. Allow it to cool for 5 minutes.

  11. Using a spatula, carefully slide the pizza onto a cutting board.

  12. Cut into squares.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

369.5kcal (18.48%)

Protein

17.4g (34.76%)

Carbs

36.0g (13.09%)

Sugars

1.5g (3%)

Healthy Fat

9.8g

Unhealthy Fat

7.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.

  2. Letting the dough rise in a warm place will help it double in size more effectively.

  3. Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld together.

FAQS

  1. What is the cooking process for making Detroit-style pepperoni pizza?

    To make Detroit-style pepperoni pizza, start by preparing the dough with warm water, yeast, sugar, olive oil, salt, and bread flour. Mix until smooth, then let it rest. After the dough rises, stretch it into a greased pizza pan. Prepare the marinara sauce by simmering it with spices, then layer pepperoni and cheese on the dough before adding the sauce. Bake in a preheated oven at 500 to 550 degrees F for about 15 minutes until golden brown.

  2. Can I make Detroit-style pepperoni pizza gluten-free?

    Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of Detroit-style pepperoni pizza by substituting the bread flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum to help with the dough's structure. Follow the same cooking process, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free pizza!

  3. How should I store leftover Detroit-style pepperoni pizza?

    To store leftover Detroit-style pepperoni pizza, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the pizza, which can last up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

  4. What are some good side dishes to pair with Detroit-style pepperoni pizza?

    Detroit-style pepperoni pizza pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad, garlic knots, or roasted vegetables. For a classic touch, you can also serve it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or some spicy pickles to complement the flavors.

  5. What can I substitute for Monterey Jack cheese in this pizza recipe?

    If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, you can substitute it with mozzarella cheese for a similar meltiness. Alternatively, you can use provolone or a blend of mozzarella and gouda for a unique flavor. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well to achieve that delicious, gooey texture.

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Saramin

(@678sarin)

My name is Saramin is a culinary enthusiast with a flair for transforming everyday ingredients into delightful, flavour-packed dishes. Passionate about home cooking, Sarin specializes...

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