As I pulled the cheeseboard out of the pantry, a wave of nostalgia hit me—Saturday nights spent gathered around the table, devouring slices of perfect, homemade Detroit-style pizza. This isn’t just any pizza; it’s a crispy-edged marvel that boasts a light and airy crust, reminiscent of a buttery focaccia, complete with a satisfyingly crunchy cheese frico crust. This Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza is more than a simple meal; it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for family pizza nights, and the best part? You can prep the dough ahead of time, making it super convenient for any busy home chef. Join me in transforming your kitchen into a bustling pizzeria, ready to serve up slices that are as delicious as they are memorable. What toppings will you choose to make it your own?

Why Is Detroit-Style Pizza So Special?

The ultimate crowd-pleaser: This Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza will be the star of your next pizza night, impressing friends and family alike.
Easy to customize: From toppings to sauces, make it your own with your favorite flavors, just like those delicious Homemade Pizza Pockets.
Rich texture: Experience the soft, airy interior complemented by the crispy cheese frico crust—a unique twist you won’t find in traditional pizzas.
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dough days in advance so you can enjoy stress-free entertaining.
Discover flavors that elevate your cooking game, just like my beloved Bacon Alfredo Pizza.

Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza Ingredients

For the Dough
• Bread Flour – The backbone of your pizza; while all-purpose can work, bread flour truly elevates the texture.
• Instant Yeast – A time-saver that helps the dough rise quickly; look for SAF brand for best results.
• Salt – Not just for flavor, it strengthens the dough structure, ensuring a delightful bite.
• Cold Water – Hydrates your flour and activates the yeast efficiently; adjust according to your flour type.
• Olive Oil – Keeps the dough from sticking and adds richness; also perfect for greasing your bowl and pan.

For the Toppings
• Wisconsin Brick Cheese – For an authentic experience with excellent melting properties; a mix of mozzarella and cheddar is a great alternative.
• Sauce – A delicious vodka or fresh tomato sauce enhances flavor; feel free to use a brand you love for convenience.

This delightful Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza captures the essence of comfort food, combining a crispy-edged crust with a soft interior that melts in your mouth. Let your creativity run wild with toppings, and prepare for a memorable cooking experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of bread flour, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 2 teaspoons of instant yeast until well combined. Gradually add 1 ½ cups of cold water, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Coat the dough lightly with olive oil, cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and let it sit at room temperature overnight to develop a flavorful texture.

Step 2: First Rise
The next day, gently deflate the dough using your hands and transfer it to a greased Detroit-style pizza pan. If you’re not using it immediately, you can refrigerate the dough for up to a week. For same-day pizza, allow the dough to rise in the pan, covered loosely with a towel, for 3 to 4 hours, until it has doubled in size.

Step 3: Dimple and Shape
Once the dough has risen beautifully, use your fingertips to dimple it across the surface, stretching it gently to reach the pan edges. Let it rise for an additional hour to enhance the airy structure. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful, soft interior characteristic of Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza.

Step 4: Parbake the Crust
Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C). Place the pizza pan in the preheated oven and parbake the crust for about 8 minutes, or until it feels set and looks slightly dry but hasn’t browned. Once done, carefully remove the pan and let it cool upside down on a rack to avoid sogginess.

Step 5: Add Toppings
Return the crust to the pan right-side up and spread your favorite sauce generously across the top. Layer on the Wisconsin brick cheese or your cheese blend, ensuring it covers the edges for that signature crispy cheese frico crust. Feel free to add any additional toppings that excite your palate.

Step 6: Final Bake
Lower the oven temperature to 475°F (246°C) and bake the topped pizza for an additional 10 minutes. Watch for the cheese to become bubbly and golden brown, indicating it is ready to come out. This final bake is essential for achieving the dreamy texture and flavors of Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza.

Step 7: Serve
Once baked, allow the pizza to cool for about 5 minutes on a cutting board. This resting time helps the cheese set slightly, making for easier slicing. Use a sharp pizza cutter to slice and enjoy your delicious creation, perfect for sharing with family and friends!

Expert Tips for Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza

Measure Accurately: Use a digital scale when measuring ingredients. This ensures precise amounts, leading to a perfectly textured homemade Detroit-style pizza dough.
Use Fresh Yeast: Opt for SAF brand instant yeast for the best rise. Old or expired yeast can result in a denser, less satisfying crust.
Control Hydration Levels: Be mindful of the cold water; too much may turn your dough soupy. Adjust based on your flour type and humidity conditions to achieve the right consistency.
Pre-Shredded Cheese: Using pre-shredded cheese can help achieve that crispy cheese frico crust because of the added starches that promote browning.
Pan Choice Matters: A Lloyd Detroit-style pizza pan or a baking steel can enhance the crust’s crispiness and texture. If you have one, don’t hesitate to use it!
Toppings Galore: Don’t shy away from personalizing your pizza with favorite toppings like spicy jalapeños or gourmet cheeses. Make your homemade Detroit-style pizza unique and tailored to your taste!

Variations & Substitutions for Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza

Feel free to explore your culinary creativity with these delightful variations and substitutions that can elevate your homemade pizza!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free dough option. Just ensure the yeast is gluten-free as well!
Dairy-Free: Substitute the cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without any dairy.
Sourdough Twist: Try using a sourdough starter instead of instant yeast for a unique, tangy flavor. Just feed your starter and adjust flour and water as needed.
Herb-Infused Dough: Incorporate minced fresh herbs or garlic into the dough for an aromatic flavor profile. Basil or rosemary can add a lovely touch!
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños right into the sauce or on top of the cheese for added heat. Your guests will love the flavor explosion!
Veggie-Packed: Load up on your favorite roasted or fresh vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or olives for some added nutrients and flavor. It’s a great way to get in more veggies!
Different Cheese Blends: Experiment with various cheese combinations such as gouda, provolone, or feta for a decadent twist on the traditional cheese frico crust.
Sauce Variations: Instead of classic tomato sauce, you could experiment with barbecue sauce or a spicy buffalo sauce. Just imagine the flavor!

Enhancing your pizza night is easy, whether by ensuring a dairy-free delight or infusing a bit of heat and flavor surprises. Once you’re comfortable with this recipe, check out other delicious options like Homemade Pizza Pockets or my mouthwatering Bacon Alfredo Pizza. The sky’s the limit with your imagination!

What to Serve with Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza

Elevate your pizza night with sides and drinks that complement the savory flavors and textures of your delicious pizza.

Crispy Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted and buttery, this side adds an aromatic touch, making each bite delectable.
Fresh Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a crisp contrast to the rich pizza, lightening the meal beautifully.
Savory Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection bring warmth and depth, harmonizing wonderfully with the comforting pizza.
Zesty Antipasto Platter: Featuring olives, cured meats, and marinated artichokes, this vibrant appetizer sets a fun, festive tone for gatherings.
Chili Flakes: For spice lovers, offering chili flakes at the table allows guests to customize their pizza experience with a kick of heat.
Sparkling Lemonade: A delightful, refreshing drink to balance the richness of your homemade Detroit-style pizza, while keeping the evening light and enjoyable.

Each of these pairings adds a unique touch, creating a fulfilling meal that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy!

How to Store and Freeze Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza

Fridge: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through and the crust regains its crispiness.

Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 375°F directly from frozen for about 15-20 minutes.

Dough Storage: The pizza dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to a week. Make sure to coat it lightly with olive oil and cover it well to prevent drying.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat cooked pizza in the oven rather than the microwave to keep the crust crisp and delicious, just like your Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza!

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza recipes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 7 days in advance by following the initial steps and refrigerating it after the first rise. Just make sure you lightly oil the dough and cover it well to maintain its quality. When you’re ready to bake, simply bring the dough to room temperature, allow it to rise in the pan for about 3-4 hours, and then proceed with the parbaking and topping steps. This way, you’ll enjoy the delightful, fresh taste of homemade pizza with minimal effort on pizza night!

Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza Recipe FAQs

What type of flour is best for Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza?
I highly recommend bread flour for this recipe because it provides the perfect structure for the dough, resulting in a delightful, airy texture. If you don’t have bread flour on hand, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour, though the texture may not be as robust.

How should I store leftover Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza?
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes, allowing the crust to regain its crispiness. Nobody likes a soggy pizza, right?

Can I freeze my Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza?
Absolutely! To freeze your pizza, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. You can store it like this for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the slices in a 375°F oven straight from the freezer for about 15-20 minutes.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough isn’t rising as expected, first check that your yeast is fresh and active. A good test is to dissolve it in warm water with a pinch of sugar; if it bubbles within 5-10 minutes, it’s good to go! If the dough was too cold, let it sit in a warm environment, like an unlit oven with the light on, for better results.

Is this Homemade Detroit-Style Pizza recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
While this specific recipe calls for bread flour, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as an alternative. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately, as this will help with the dough’s structure. Keep in mind that texture may vary slightly, but you can still enjoy a delicious variation of this pizza!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough up to a week in advance! After mixing, coat it lightly with olive oil, cover it well, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to use it, simply let it come to room temperature before shaping and rising in the pan. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy pizza nights!