Giordano’s Copycat Recipe (pizza): Ultimate Guide to Homemade Deep-Dish Perfection

Giordano’s pizza has always been a favorite of mine with its signature deep-dish goodness and cheesy perfection. There’s something magical about biting into that golden crust filled with layers of rich sauce and gooey cheese that makes it so irresistible.

Ingredients

• 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for kneading
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
• ¼ cup olive oil, divided
• 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: Italian sausage, pepperoni slices, sautéed vegetables

Tools and Equipment

Essential Tools

• Stand Mixer: Ideal for kneading the rich, buttery dough to the perfect consistency.
• Deep-Dish Pizza Pan: A 12-inch round pan ensures the authentic thickness and structure.
• Oven: A reliable oven that maintains consistent temperatures is crucial for even baking.
• Pizza Cutter or Sharp Knife: For slicing the pizza smoothly without disrupting the layers.
• Mixing Bowls: Various sizes are helpful for preparing the dough and toppings.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for balancing flavors.
• Spatula and Wooden Spoon: Perfect for spreading the sauce and assembling the layers without tearing the dough.

Optional Tools

• Pizza Stone: Helps achieve a crispier crust.
• Food Processor: Speeds up chopping vegetables or blending ingredients.
• Dough Scraper: Makes handling and portioning the dough easier.
• Pastry Brush: Ideal for brushing the crust with butter or oil for a golden finish.

Equipment Overview

Make-Ahead Instructions

Preparing your Giordano’s copycat pizza ahead of time ensures a delicious meal is ready whenever cravings strike. Here’s how I streamline the process to make your pizza experience effortless and tasty.

Preparing the Dough

1. Mix the Dough

In my stand mixer, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) of active dry yeast, 1 ½ cups of warm water, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix until a smooth dough forms.

1. Knead the Dough

Let the mixer knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it’s elastic and soft.

1. First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour until doubled in size.

1. Refrigerate

After the first rise, punch down the dough, divide it into desired portions, and wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours.

Making the Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients

In a saucepan, combine 2 cans (28 ounces each) of crushed tomatoes, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of dried oregano, 1 tablespoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and salt to taste.

1. Simmer

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

1. Cool and Store

Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Preparing the Cheese and Toppings

1. Grate the Cheese

Grate 4 cups of shredded mozzarella and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Store the cheese in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

1. Prepare Toppings

If you’re adding Italian sausage or sautéed vegetables, cook them ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the fridge.

Assembling and Freezing the Pizza

1. Pre-bake the Crust

Roll out the dough to fit your deep-dish pizza pan. Pre-bake the crust at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to set the shape.

1. Layer Ingredients

Spread a layer of prepared sauce over the pre-baked crust. Add your shredded mozzarella, toppings of your choice, and finish with grated Parmesan.

1. Freeze

Allow the assembled pizza to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Place it in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Baking from Frozen

1. Thaw the Pizza

Remove the pizza from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

1. Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the plastic and foil, and bake the pizza for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden.

By following these make-ahead steps, you can enjoy a homemade Giordano’s-style pizza with minimal effort when hunger strikes.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your own delicious Giordano’s-style deep-dish pizza at home.

Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast.
2. Add 1 1/2 cups of warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the flour mixture.
3. Mix the ingredients until a dough forms, then transfer it to a floured surface.
4. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Prepare the Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in 2 cans (28 ounces each) of crushed tomatoes.
4. Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Grease a deep-dish pizza pan with olive oil.
3. Punch down the risen dough and press it evenly into the prepared pizza pan, creating a slight rim for the crust.
4. Spread 1 cup of the prepared sauce over the dough.
5. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
6. Add your favorite toppings, such as Italian sausage, sautéed vegetables, or pepperoni, distributing them evenly.
7. Top with an additional 1 cup of mozzarella cheese to ensure a gooey, cheesy finish.

Bake the Pizza

1. Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
3. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
4. Use a pizza cutter to slice and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your homemade Giordano’s-style deep-dish pizza is all about creating a memorable dining experience. Here are some of my favorite ways to elevate your pizza night:

Pair with Classic Sides

Enhance your meal with these timeless accompaniments:

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese complement the rich flavors of the pizza.
• Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic and herbs provide a delightful contrast to the hearty pizza.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection adds a nutritious and colorful element to your meal.

Perfect Beverage Pairings

Choose drinks that balance the richness of the deep-dish pizza:

• Italian Soda: Refreshing and fizzy, Italian sodas in flavors like lemon, orange, or raspberry add a sweet touch.
• Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Sangiovese enhances the savory notes of the pizza.
• Craft Beer: Opt for a robust lager or an IPA to complement the deep flavors and hearty textures.

Add Finishing Touches

Top off your pizza with these delightful garnishes:

• Fresh Basil: A few torn basil leaves add a burst of freshness and vibrant color.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle for an extra kick of heat.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle enhances the flavors and adds a glossy finish.

Dessert Ideas

End your meal on a sweet note with these delicious options:

• Tiramisu: This creamy, coffee-flavored dessert pairs wonderfully with the savory meal.
• Gelato: Choose classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, or pistachio for a refreshing finish.
• Cannoli: Crispy shells filled with sweet ricotta cheese offer a delightful crunch and sweetness.

Table of Recommended Pairings

By thoughtfully pairing your Giordano’s-style pizza with these sides, beverages, and desserts, you’ll create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that rivals the dining experience at your favorite pizzeria.

Conclusion

Bringing a piece of Giordano’s into my kitchen has been truly rewarding. Crafting each layer of the pizza myself adds a special touch that store-bought just can’t match. Watching friends and family enjoy every bite makes all the effort worthwhile. It’s amazing how a few simple steps can recreate such a beloved classic right at home. I’m excited to try different toppings and make this recipe my go-to favorite meal. Making this deep-dish pizza feels like creating a little slice of comfort and joy every time. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious results with your loved ones!