The Art of Deep-Dish Pizza: Is It Really a Pizza or a Casserole?

Few foods spark as much heated debate as Chicago’s legendary deep-dish pizza. Some claim it’s the ultimate indulgence, a buttery-crusted, cheese-packed masterpiece that symbolizes the city’s culinary greatness. Others, particularly those loyal to thin-crust pies, argue that deep-dish isn’t even pizza—it’s a casserole in disguise. No matter where you stand, there’s no denying that deep-dish pizza is an art form all its own.

For those in Naperville, IL, just a short drive from the heart of Chicago, deep-dish pizza is a must-try staple that connects the suburbs to the Windy City’s rich food culture. Naperville may have its own thriving food scene, but the influence of Chicago-style eats—especially deep-dish pizza—is undeniable. Whether you’re grabbing a slice at Lou Malnati’s in downtown Naperville or making the trip to one of Chicago’s iconic pizzerias, the deep-dish experience is a true Chicago tradition.


The Anatomy of a Deep-Dish Pie
Unlike the foldable, New York-style pizza, Chicago deep-dish is built differently—literally. It starts with a thick, buttery crust pressed into a deep pan, creating a sturdy foundation for the following layers of ingredients. Cheese comes next—lots of it—followed by a hearty pile of toppings. Finally, the sauce is ladled on top, protecting the cheese from burning while baking to perfection. This signature layering process sets deep-dish apart from traditional pizza styles, making it a culinary experience that requires a fork, a knife, and a whole lot of patience.


Pizza or Casserole? The Ongoing Debate
The structure of deep-dish pizza has led skeptics to question whether it should even be classified as pizza. Detractors argue that because it’s so thick, eaten with utensils, and baked in a pan, it shares more similarities with a casserole than its thin-crust counterparts. However, deep-dish purists insist that despite its unconventional build, it’s still very much pizza—just an evolution of the dish. After all, pizza has taken on many forms worldwide, from Neapolitan to Detroit-style to Sicilian, so why should Chicago’s version be any less authentic?


The Art of Making It
Crafting a perfect deep-dish pizza requires precision and patience. The dough must be flaky but sturdy enough to support the weight of the toppings, and the cheese-to-sauce ratio must be just right. A proper deep-dish pizza also needs time—baking one can take up to 45 minutes, which only builds anticipation for that first glorious bite. Like a carefully painted masterpiece, each layer plays a role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.


A Slice of Chicago History
Deep-dish pizza was reportedly invented in the 1940s at Pizzeria Uno in Chicago. Since then, it has become one of the city’s most famous dishes, with countless pizzerias serving their own take on the classic. Whether it’s Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, or Pequod’s, each spot has its loyal following and signature spin on deep-dish perfection.


Final Verdict? You Decide!
So, is deep-dish pizza really pizza, or is it more of a casserole? Ultimately, the answer depends on who you ask. What’s undeniable, though, is that it’s a delicious and uniquely Chicagoan creation. Whether you’re a die-hard deep-dish lover or a skeptic, one thing is certain—taking a bite of that cheesy, saucy, golden-crusted goodness is an experience worth savoring.


BONUS: Recipes To Try
(1) True Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza (from The Food Network)
*Shown in the image above*
Jeff Mauro’s top-rated recipe is the real deal, featuring a thick, buttery crust layered with mozzarella, Italian sausage, pepperoni, a sweet-leaning tomato sauce, and grated Parmesan.
https://www....pizza-5612273

(2) Deep Dish Hawaiian Pizza - https://cook...waiian-pizza/

(3) Make Yours Vegan - https://www....pizza-recipe/

(4) Gooey Deep Dish Made In Cast Iron - https://fami...i-mozzarella/

Share    The BEST Deep Dish Pizza In Chicago   |   Let's Paint Together!