Detroit Style Pizza with Crispy Cheese Crust Recipe

If you’re ready to up your pizza game, I can’t recommend this Detroit Style Pizza with Crispy Cheese Crust Recipe enough. This isn’t your average slice; it boasts a thick, airy dough with a mesmerizingly crunchy cheese crust that just won’t quit. I first fell for this pizza when a friend brought it to a game night, and ever since, I’ve been hooked on recreating that perfect balance of chewy dough and crispy, caramelized cheese edge right at home. Keep reading, and I’ll walk you through every step so you can nail this fan-freaking-tastic pizza yourself!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

I’ve found that using simple, quality ingredients is key to nailing that authentic Detroit style. The dough ingredients come together simply but delivering that airy crumb takes some patience with the stretch and fold method. Plus, choosing the right cheese is such a game changer for that crispy edge you’ll love.

• All purpose flour: Use good quality flour to give your dough structure but keep it tender.
• Kosher salt: A must for flavor balance in the dough.
• Instant yeast: Quick and reliable for great rise without fuss.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Adds flavor and keeps the dough soft; also used for greasing the pan.
• Lukewarm water: Activates yeast gently without killing it.
• Butter: For greasing to help create that golden crust beneath the pizza.
• Cheese (Wisconsin Brick or Low-Moisture Mozzarella): Key to that crispy cheese edge – cube it and nestle up to the pan edges.
• Pepperoni: Classic topping that crisps up beautifully on top of the cheese.
• Pizza or marinara sauce: Spoon this over after the first bake to avoid sogginess but retain the deep tomato flavor.
• Basil leaves, garlic, olive oil, salt & pepper: For the fresh, homemade garlic basil drizzle that finishes the pie.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Detroit Style Pizza with Crispy Cheese Crust Recipe is how you can easily make it your own. Whether you want to swap out toppings or adjust for dietary needs, it’s a flexible canvas that plays well with most flavors.

• Meat Alternatives: I’ve tried replacing pepperoni with spicy sausage or even sautéed mushrooms—both delicious twists that keep things exciting.
• Cheese Blend: Mixing Brick cheese with a bit of sharp cheddar adds extra depth and a slightly tangier crust.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend—just know the dough handling changes slightly but the crust can still get that crispy finish.
• Herb Variations: Swap basil in the garlic oil for fresh oregano or thyme to experiment with fresh herb flavor.

How to Make Detroit Style Pizza with Crispy Cheese Crust Recipe

Step 1: Mix and Hydrate Your Dough

Start by combining your flour, salt, yeast, olive oil, and lukewarm water in a large bowl. I like using a wooden spoon or a Danish whisk here—no need for a fancy mixer. The goal is to get a shaggy dough where all the flour is hydrated, but it’s still sticky. Cover it with a tea towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes. This step gives the gluten a chance to start relaxing and developing flavor with minimal effort.

Step 2: Stretch and Fold, Repeat

After the first rest, wet your hands to avoid sticking and perform a stretch and fold: pull one side of the dough up gently and fold it over like a letter, then rotate the bowl 90 degrees and repeat. Do this about four times total, scraping dough off the bowl edges each round. Cover and rest for 30 minutes. Repeat this whole stretch-and-fold process 3 to 4 times over two hours. I discovered this method ensures a smooth, elastic dough without kneading, and it’s a game changer for that soft yet structured base.

Step 3: Transfer to Your Well-Oiled Pan and Proof

Grease your pan really well with butter and olive oil—this step is essential for that crispy, golden crust. Gently fold your dough into the pan, flip so the seams are on the bottom, and cover. Let it rise for 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll see the dough soften and spread, ready for that perfect shape.

Step 4: Shape the Dough and Add Cheese

If the dough hasn’t stretched all the way to the edges, lightly oil your hands and stretch it gently right into the corners. Press out large air bubbles with your fingers so you end up with an even layer. Then comes the magic: scatter your cubed cheese all over, making sure some cheese touches the edges of the pan. That’s the secret to the famous crispy cheese crust—it melts, crisps, and caramelizes around the sides.

Step 5: Top with Pepperoni and Bake

Layer your pepperoni on top of the cheese, then pop the pizza into a 450°F (230°C) oven on the bottom rack for about 15 minutes. This initial bake sets the dough and starts bubbling that cheese crust just right.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Finish Baking

Take the pizza out and spoon over the sauce in ribbons or dollops instead of slathering it everywhere—that trick keeps the pizza from getting soggy. Return to the oven for another 5 to 8 minutes until you see golden, bubbly edges and some beautiful blisters on the cheese. This two-step bake is what keeps everything perfectly textured.

Step 7: Make the Garlic Basil Oil and Final Touches

While the pizza finishes baking, blend basil, garlic, olive oil, plus salt and pepper for a fresh, vibrant drizzle. When your pizza’s done, carefully run a spatula around the edges to loosen it and transfer it to a cooling rack. Drizzle on the garlic basil oil and slice immediately—you’ll love how the fresh herbs lift all those hearty flavors.

How to Serve Detroit Style Pizza with Crispy Cheese Crust Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this pizza with a drizzle of the homemade garlic basil oil because it adds a fresh, herby kick that cuts through the richness. Sometimes a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a few fresh basil leaves on top also makes it pop visually and in flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair this pizza with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some classic garlic bread. My family also enjoys serving it alongside roasted veggies for a balanced, flavorful meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I like slicing this pizza into smaller squares and arranging them on a wooden board with a variety of dipping sauces—think honey hot sauce or garlic ranch. It turns pizza night into a fun, shareable experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Detroit Style Pizza with Crispy Cheese Crust holds up great in the fridge. I wrap slices tightly in foil or use airtight containers to keep that crust crispier than you’d expect. It’s perfect for a quick next-day lunch or dinner.

Freezing

Though fresh is best, you can freeze individual slices. I flash freeze them on a tray first to prevent sticking, then pop into a freezer bag. When you reheat, the crust and cheese still have that lovely texture.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is in a hot oven or toaster oven—around 375°F for 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that crispy cheese crust intact.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Detroit Style Pizza with Crispy Cheese Crust Recipe turns out every time, and I think you will too. It’s perfect for impressing friends, feeding your family, or treating yourself to something cozy and special. The combo of that airy dough, the crispy cheese edge, and fresh garlic basil drizzle always feels like a warm hug on a plate. Give it a try—once you make it, you’ll understand exactly why this recipe has become one of my all-time favorites.

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