Homemade Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:

   • In a small bowl, dissolve sugar and yeast in warm water. Let stand 5-10 minutes until frothy.
   • In a large bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, and salt. Make a well in the center and add yeast mixture, melted butter, and olive oil.
   • Stir until dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Make the Sauce:

   • Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan. Add onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened.
   • Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar. Season with salt and pepper.
   • Simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

3. Prepare the Filling:

   • Cook sausage in a skillet until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat.
   • If using, sauté bell pepper and onion in the same skillet until softened. Set aside.

4. Assemble the Pizza:

   • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9-inch or 10-inch deep-dish pizza pan.
   • Punch down dough and roll into a 12-inch circle.
   • Press dough into the pan, forming a thick crust.
   • Layer half of the mozzarella, then provolone, and finally Parmesan cheese.
   • Top with sausage, bell pepper, and onion (if using).
   • Pour tomato sauce over the filling.

5. Bake the Pizza:

   • Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly and melted.
   • If crust browns too quickly, cover edges with foil.

6. Cool and Serve:

   • Let the pizza cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
   • Enjoy!