Chicago is famous for its rich and hearty pizza style. Known for its thick, buttery crust and layers of cheese, toppings, and sauce, Chicago-style pizza is unlike any other. If you love pizza that’s filling and packed with flavor, you’re in for a treat. Here, we’ll explore some of the best Chicago-style pizzas you simply must try. From deep-dish to stuffed, there’s something for every pizza lover.
1. Classic Deep-Dish Pizza
What Makes It Special
When you think of Chicago-style pizza, the classic deep-dish pizza probably comes to mind. This pizza has a thick, buttery crust that serves as the base for multiple layers of toppings. Cheese goes directly on the crust, followed by meat or veggies, and then topped with a chunky tomato sauce. The deep-dish pizza is cooked in a round, steel pan, which helps the crust develop its signature crispy texture.
Topping Suggestions
Secondly, for traditionalists, sausage and pepperoni are excellent options. However, you can mix it up with fresh veggies like mushrooms or spinach. Each bite offers the perfect combination of crust, sauce, and cheese. More so, add a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor. It’s no wonder why this is one of the most iconic pizzas Chicago has to offer!
2. Stuffed Pizza
A Step Beyond Deep-Dish
Stuffed pizza takes deep-dish to another level. The difference? Stuffed pizza has an additional layer of dough on top of the fillings. This makes it almost like a savory pie, rich in flavor and texture. It’s the pizza for those who want to go all-in with toppings, cheese, and sauce.
Must-Try Flavors
A favorite combination is spinach and sausage. This blend of fresh veggies with seasoned sausage is a fantastic contrast to the cheesy filling. Meat lovers should try a mix of pepperoni, bacon, and Italian sausage. The extra dough layer adds a satisfying bite, while the tangy tomato sauce rounds out the flavor.
3. Lou Malnati’s Deep-Dish Sausage Pizza
The Local Legend
Lou Malnati’s is a well-known name in Chicago when it comes to deep-dish pizza. Their sausage pizza, in particular, is famous for its unique preparation. Instead of scattering sausage pieces across the pizza, Lou Malnati’s places a sausage patty that spans the entire pizza! This ensures each bite has a perfect balance of meat, sauce, and cheese.
Why You’ll Love It
The crust at Lou Malnati’s is buttery and flaky, with just the right amount of crispiness. The tomato sauce, made from ripe tomatoes, is slightly sweet and tangy. With their signature sausage and high-quality mozzarella, this pizza delivers a rich, flavorful experience. Additionally, it’s the perfect starting point if you’re new to Chicago-style pizza.
4. Giordano’s Stuffed Pizza
The Master of Stuffed Pies
Giordano’s is the go-to place for stuffed pizza in Chicago. In addition, their stuffed pies are thick, hearty, and packed with ingredients. Giordano’s is known for creating pizzas that are satisfying and full of flavor. Each slice is a meal in itself.
Best Pizza Picks
One of the most popular choices at Giordano’s is their stuffed spinach pizza. More so, the combination of gooey mozzarella with fresh spinach is a crowd-pleaser. For a meatier option, try their classic stuffed sausage pizza. The layers of cheese, sauce, and sausage offer a taste that’s hard to beat. If you want an experience that defines Chicago-style stuffed pizza, Giordano’s is the place to go.
5. Pequod’s Caramelized Crust Pizza
A Unique Twist
Pequod’s offers a distinct take on Chicago-style pizza. Their deep-dish pizza has a caramelized crust, which adds a new level of flavor. This crispy, cheesy crust is created by cooking the pizza with cheese along the edges of the pan. Furthermore, the result is a deliciously crunchy and slightly sweet bite that sets it apart from traditional deep-dish pizzas.
Best Toppings for Caramelized Crust
More so, Pepperoni or sausage works wonderfully with the caramelized crust. You can also add roasted vegetables for a little extra texture and flavor. Pequod’s caramelized crust pizza provides a unique experience and is a must-try for anyone looking for a twist on the classic style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chicago-style pizza offers a rich, hearty, and incredibly satisfying meal. From deep-dish classics to stuffed pies loaded with cheese and toppings, each variation brings something special to the table. Whether you’re enjoying Lou Malnati’s signature sausage deep-dish or diving into Giordano’s stuffed spinach pizza, there’s no shortage of options. The next time you’re in Chicago or craving a serious pizza night, try one of these best Chicago-style pizzas. You won’t be disappointed!
