Print

Crispy Detroit-Style Pepperoni Pizza Recipe with Perfect Cheese Edges

Detroit-style pepperoni pizza - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy Detroit-style pepperoni pizza featuring a thick, airy crust with crispy, caramelized cheese edges and perfectly crisped pepperoni. This recipe balances convenience and flavor for a satisfying homemade pizza experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp or 7g) instant yeast
  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (100-110°F / 38-43°C)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for pan)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 20–30 pepperoni slices
  • 12 oz (340g) shredded brick cheese or mozzarella
  • 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
  • ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Mix the Dough (10 minutes + rising): In a large bowl, combine 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp sugar. In a separate small bowl, dissolve 1 packet instant yeast in 1 ½ cups warm water (100-110°F). Let sit for 5 minutes until slightly foamy. Add the yeast mixture and 2 tbsp olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a sticky dough forms. Cover and let rise for 1 to 1 ½ hours until doubled in size.
  2. Prepare the Pan: Generously oil the Detroit-style pan (9×13 inches) with about 1 tbsp olive oil, coating all corners and sides. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C) at least 30 minutes before baking.
  3. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Transfer to the oiled pan and press evenly to edges and corners. Let rest 5 minutes if resistant, then continue stretching to fill the pan with about ½ inch thickness.
  4. Add Cheese and Pepperoni: Sprinkle 12 oz shredded brick or mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, letting some cheese spill over the edges. Layer 20-30 pepperoni slices evenly on top.
  5. Partially Bake the Pizza: Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes until dough firms and cheese edges start to brown without burning.
  6. Add the Sauce: Remove pizza from oven and spoon 1 cup tomato sauce in thick stripes or dollops over the pepperoni and cheese. Sprinkle ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce if desired.
  7. Finish Baking: Return pizza to oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes until sauce thickens and cheese is golden and bubbly with crunchy edges.
  8. Cool and Slice: Let pizza cool for 5 minutes before slicing into squares with a sharp pizza cutter or large knife.

Notes

Use a well-oiled pan to prevent sticking and achieve crispy cheese edges. Bake at high heat (500°F) for signature crust. Let dough rest if resistant when stretching. For crispier cheese edges, finish under broiler 1-2 minutes watching closely. Dough can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated. Reheat leftovers in a skillet to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Detroit-style pizza, pepperoni pizza, crispy cheese edges, homemade pizza, easy pizza recipe, thick crust pizza

Find it online: https://avabake.com/crispy-detroit-style-pepperoni-pizza-recipe-with-perfect-cheese-edges-easy-steps/