Detroit Style Pepperoni Pizza

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Introduction
Crispy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible, Detroit Style Pepperoni Pizza stands out with its thick, airy crust and caramelized cheese edges. Originating from Detroit, this pizza offers a unique rectangular shape that holds a rich layer of mozzarella and spicy pepperoni slices. Its bold flavors and satisfying textures make it a standout for pizza lovers everywhere. You’ll learn how to achieve that perfectly crunchy crust, gooey cheese, and zesty tomato sauce combination right in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Detroit Style Pepperoni Pizza is a culinary masterpiece that balances textures and flavors perfectly. The airy, focaccia-like dough provides a light interior with a golden, crunchy exterior. Melted mozzarella forms a cheesy crown over the dough, while the pepperoni adds a slightly spicy, savory punch. The sauce, often placed on top, gives a tangy finish that ties everything together. This pizza is easy to customize, making it ideal for casual dinners or parties. With this recipe, you get the satisfaction of restaurant-quality pizza at home, along with the joy of caramelized cheese edges that deliver a crispy, buttery bite in every slice.

Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (approx. 315g)
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 cup warm water (240ml)
2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for the pan)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (225g)
1 cup pepperoni slices (approx. 28-30 slices)
¾ cup pizza sauce (180ml)
½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

This combination ensures a perfect dough rise, cheesy topping, and flavorful pepperoni coverage.

Pro Tips

Use a well-oiled pan: Detroit-style pizza develops its signature crispy edges by baking in a generously greased rectangular pan. Nonstick or steel pans work best.
Let the dough rise twice: Allowing the dough to rise first in the bowl and then in the pan ensures an airy, light texture while keeping a soft interior.
Cheese placement is key: Spread mozzarella cheese edge-to-edge. This encourages caramelization along the pan edges for that iconic crispy crust.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms, then knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and allow it to rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Generously oil a 9×13-inch rectangular baking pan with olive oil. Transfer the risen dough to the pan and press it evenly to fill the corners. Let the dough rest in the pan for 20 minutes to rise slightly again.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Pepperoni
Spread shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough, making sure it touches the pan edges. Arrange pepperoni slices on top, slightly overlapping for maximum flavor. Sprinkle with garlic powder and black pepper if desired.

Step 4: Add Sauce
Spoon the pizza sauce over the top in three long stripes, leaving some cheese exposed along the edges. This traditional method ensures the sauce doesn’t overpower the crispy cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Pizza
Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Bake for 15–20 minutes until the cheese edges are deeply caramelized and the crust is golden brown. Rotate the pan halfway through for even baking.

Step 6: Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Slice into rectangular pieces and serve hot, enjoying the crispy edges and gooey interior with every bite.

Variations

Vegetarian version: Swap pepperoni for sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or caramelized onions.
Spicy kick: Add sliced jalapeños or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes before baking.
Cheese blend: Use a mix of provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar for extra flavor depth.

Storage/Serving

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness. Serve Detroit Style Pepperoni Pizza with a fresh side salad, garlic knots, or even a creamy dipping sauce. Pairing it with chilled soda or iced tea makes it a perfect weeknight dinner or weekend treat.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours after the first rise. Bring to room temperature before shaping.

2. Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella?
Absolutely. Pre-shredded works fine, but fresh mozzarella gives a creamier texture.

3. Is a rectangular pan necessary?
A rectangular pan is ideal for authenticity, but a round pizza pan can work in a pinch.

4. How do I get crispy cheese edges?
Make sure the cheese touches the pan edges and bake at a high temperature without covering.

5. Can I freeze this pizza?
Yes, fully baked slices can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Conclusion

This Detroit Style Pepperoni Pizza is comfort food at its finest — thick, cheesy, and perfectly crispy with a savory pepperoni punch. It’s the kind of dish that brings friends and family together over a shared love of rich, indulgent flavors. Baking it at home gives you the joy of creating restaurant-quality pizza without leaving your kitchen.