Detroit style pizza has been gaining popularity across the United States, and for good reason. This square-cut, cheesy, and utterly delicious style of pizza has a rich history that dates back to the 1940s. Born in the heart of Detroit, Michigan, this style of pizza was created by Buddy’s Restaurant, which still serves up some of the best Detroit style pizzas to this day.
When it comes to Detroit style pizza, the first thing that comes to mind is the thick, crispy crust that’s formed by baking the pizza in a well-oiled pan. But what really sets it apart from other styles of pizza is the way the cheese is distributed. Instead of being spread evenly across the top of the pizza, the cheese is spread out to the edges of the pan, creating a crispy, golden-brown crust that’s absolutely divine.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of Detroit style pizza, exploring its unique characteristics, and providing you with the knowledge and skills to make your own delicious Detroit style pizzas at home. Whether you’re a seasoned pizza enthusiast or just looking to try something new, this guide has got you covered. From the history of Detroit style pizza to the best toppings and baking techniques, we’ll cover it all. So, let’s get started and uncover the magic of Detroit style pizza.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Detroit style pizza is known for its square shape, thick crust, and crispy edges
- The crust is formed by baking the pizza in a well-oiled pan, which creates a crunchy texture
- Detroit style pizza is typically topped with a thick layer of cheese that’s spread out to the edges of the pan
- You can make Detroit style pizza at home using a few simple ingredients and a well-oiled pan
- The best toppings for Detroit style pizza include pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and olives
- Baking time for Detroit style pizza can range from 15-25 minutes, depending on the temperature and toppings
The History of Detroit Style Pizza
Detroit style pizza has a rich history that dates back to the 1940s, when Buddy’s Restaurant first started serving up this unique style of pizza. The story goes that the owner of Buddy’s, Gus Guerra, was inspired by his wife’s Sicilian-style pizza, which was made with a thick crust and topped with a thick layer of cheese. Guerra decided to create his own version of this pizza, using a square pan and a blend of mozzarella and brick cheese. The result was a pizza that was crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and absolutely delicious.
Today, Detroit style pizza is still made using the same techniques and ingredients that Guerra used back in the 1940s. The pizza is made with a thick crust that’s formed by baking it in a well-oiled pan, and it’s topped with a thick layer of cheese that’s spread out to the edges of the pan. This creates a crispy, golden-brown crust that’s absolutely divine. Whether you’re a fan of classic toppings like pepperoni and sausage, or more adventurous toppings like mushrooms and olives, Detroit style pizza is the perfect choice.
The Difference Between Detroit and Chicago Style Pizza
When it comes to pizza, two of the most popular styles are Detroit and Chicago. While both styles are delicious in their own right, they’re also very different. Chicago style pizza is known for its deep dish crust, which is made with a thick layer of dough that’s formed into a deep pan. The crust is then topped with a thick layer of cheese, meats, and vegetables, and it’s baked in the oven until the crust is golden brown.
Detroit style pizza, on the other hand, is made with a thick crust that’s formed by baking it in a well-oiled pan. The crust is crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, and it’s topped with a thick layer of cheese that’s spread out to the edges of the pan. This creates a crispy, golden-brown crust that’s absolutely divine. While both styles of pizza are delicious, they’re also very different, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Making Detroit Style Pizza at Home
Making Detroit style pizza at home is easier than you think. All you need is a few simple ingredients, including a square pan, some pizza dough, and a blend of mozzarella and brick cheese. You’ll also need some toppings, such as pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and olives. To start, preheat your oven to 425-450 degrees Fahrenheit, and make sure your pan is well-oiled. Then, roll out your pizza dough and place it in the pan, making sure to spread it out to the edges.
Next, top your pizza with a thick layer of cheese, making sure to spread it out to the edges of the pan. Add your toppings, and then bake your pizza in the oven for 15-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. The result is a delicious, crispy-crusted pizza that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Popular Toppings for Detroit Style Pizza
When it comes to toppings for Detroit style pizza, the possibilities are endless. Some popular toppings include pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and olives. You can also get creative with your toppings, using things like bacon, ham, and pineapple. The key is to choose toppings that complement the crispy, cheesy crust of the pizza, without overpowering it.
One of the best things about Detroit style pizza is the way the toppings are distributed. Instead of being spread evenly across the top of the pizza, the toppings are concentrated in the center, leaving a crispy, cheesy edge around the outside. This creates a delicious contrast of textures and flavors, with the crispy crust and cheesy edge giving way to a savory, meaty center.
Baking Time for Detroit Style Pizza
Baking time for Detroit style pizza can range from 15-25 minutes, depending on the temperature and toppings. The key is to bake the pizza at a high temperature, so that the crust is crispy and golden brown. You’ll also want to make sure the toppings are cooked through, without being overcooked or burnt.
To achieve the perfect bake, preheat your oven to 425-450 degrees Fahrenheit, and make sure your pan is well-oiled. Then, bake your pizza for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are cooked through. You can also broil the pizza for an additional 2-3 minutes, to give it a crispy, caramelized crust.
Can I Order Detroit Style Pizza from a Chain Restaurant?
While Detroit style pizza is still a relatively niche style of pizza, it’s becoming increasingly popular across the United States. As a result, many chain restaurants are now offering Detroit style pizza as part of their menu. Some popular chain restaurants that offer Detroit style pizza include Jet’s Pizza, Little Caesars, and Domino’s.
However, it’s worth noting that the quality of Detroit style pizza can vary greatly from one chain restaurant to another. Some chain restaurants may use lower-quality ingredients, or may not cook the pizza to the right temperature. As a result, it’s often better to seek out independent pizzerias that specialize in Detroit style pizza. These restaurants are often owned and operated by pizza enthusiasts who are passionate about creating authentic, delicious Detroit style pizzas.
The Unique Crust of Detroit Style Pizza
The crust of Detroit style pizza is one of its most distinctive features. It’s made by baking the pizza in a well-oiled pan, which creates a crispy, golden-brown crust that’s absolutely divine. The crust is formed by the oil in the pan, which seeps into the dough and creates a crunchy texture.
The crust is also crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, thanks to the thick layer of cheese that’s spread out to the edges of the pan. This creates a delicious contrast of textures and flavors, with the crispy crust giving way to a savory, cheesy center. Whether you’re a fan of classic toppings like pepperoni and sausage, or more adventurous toppings like mushrooms and olives, the crust of Detroit style pizza is the perfect complement.
Do I Need a Special Pan to Make Detroit Style Pizza?
To make authentic Detroit style pizza, you’ll need a special pan that’s designed specifically for this style of pizza. The pan should be square in shape, with a thick, heavy bottom that can withstand high temperatures. It should also be well-oiled, to create a crispy, golden-brown crust.
While you can use a regular pizza pan to make Detroit style pizza, it’s not recommended. The pan may not be able to withstand the high temperatures required to create a crispy crust, and it may not be able to distribute the oil evenly. As a result, it’s worth investing in a high-quality pan that’s designed specifically for Detroit style pizza. This will ensure that your pizza turns out crispy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious.
Can I Freeze Detroit Style Pizza for Later?
Yes, you can freeze Detroit style pizza for later. In fact, freezing is a great way to preserve the pizza and keep it fresh for a longer period of time. To freeze Detroit style pizza, simply bake it as you normally would, and then let it cool to room temperature.
Once the pizza has cooled, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the freezer. The pizza will keep for several months, and can be reheated in the oven or microwave whenever you’re ready to eat it. Just be sure to thaw the pizza slowly, either by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight or by thawing it in the microwave. This will help to preserve the crispy crust and cheesy center, and ensure that the pizza turns out delicious and fresh-tasting.
The Cheese Used in Detroit Style Pizza
The cheese used in Detroit style pizza is a blend of mozzarella and brick cheese. The mozzarella provides a creamy, melty texture, while the brick cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor. The cheese is spread out to the edges of the pan, creating a crispy, golden-brown crust that’s absolutely divine.
The cheese is also a key component of the pizza’s flavor profile, complementing the savory, meaty toppings and the crispy, crunchy crust. Whether you’re a fan of classic toppings like pepperoni and sausage, or more adventurous toppings like mushrooms and olives, the cheese is the perfect complement. It’s a key part of what makes Detroit style pizza so delicious, and it’s a major reason why this style of pizza has become so popular across the United States.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to reheat a frozen Detroit style pizza?
The best way to reheat a frozen Detroit style pizza is to thaw it slowly, either by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight or by thawing it in the microwave. Once the pizza has thawed, you can reheat it in the oven or microwave until it’s hot and crispy.
To reheat the pizza in the oven, preheat your oven to 425-450 degrees Fahrenheit, and place the pizza on a baking sheet. Bake the pizza for 10-15 minutes, or until it’s hot and crispy. You can also broil the pizza for an additional 2-3 minutes, to give it a crispy, caramelized crust.
Can I make Detroit style pizza in a wood-fired oven?
Yes, you can make Detroit style pizza in a wood-fired oven. In fact, a wood-fired oven is a great way to create a crispy, well-cooked crust, and it can add a smoky, savory flavor to the pizza.
To make Detroit style pizza in a wood-fired oven, preheat the oven to 500-600 degrees Fahrenheit, and make sure the pan is well-oiled. Then, bake the pizza for 5-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are cooked through. You can also rotate the pizza halfway through the baking time, to ensure that it cooks evenly.
What is the difference between Detroit style pizza and Sicilian-style pizza?
Detroit style pizza and Sicilian-style pizza are both square-cut, thick-crusted pizzas that originated in the United States. However, they have some key differences. Sicilian-style pizza is made with a thicker crust that’s more bread-like, and it’s topped with a thick layer of sauce and cheese.
Detroit style pizza, on the other hand, is made with a thinner crust that’s crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside. It’s topped with a thick layer of cheese that’s spread out to the edges of the pan, creating a crispy, golden-brown crust. While both styles of pizza are delicious, they’re also very different, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Can I use a pizza stone to make Detroit style pizza?
Yes, you can use a pizza stone to make Detroit style pizza. In fact, a pizza stone is a great way to create a crispy, well-cooked crust, and it can add a smoky, savory flavor to the pizza.
To use a pizza stone, preheat your oven to 425-450 degrees Fahrenheit, and place the stone in the oven. Then, place the pizza on the stone and bake it for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are cooked through. You can also broil the pizza for an additional 2-3 minutes, to give it a crispy, caramelized crust.
What is the best type of cheese to use for Detroit style pizza?
The best type of cheese to use for Detroit style pizza is a blend of mozzarella and brick cheese. The mozzarella provides a creamy, melty texture, while the brick cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor.
You can also use other types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, but mozzarella and brick cheese are the most traditional and authentic. Whatever type of cheese you choose, make sure it’s high-quality and fresh, and that it’s melted to perfection in the oven.