Focaccia Deep Dish Pizza

If you love the thick, chewy crust of focaccia and the hearty, cheesy goodness of deep dish pizza, then this recipe is for you.  Join Big Poppa and his son Scott, in Big Poppa's Focaccia Deep Dish Pizza, that combines the best of both worlds, delivering a pizza that's rich in flavor and texture.  Perfect for a family dinner or a game day party, this pizza will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why Focaccia?
Focaccia bread is known for its light, airy, and slightly chewy texture with a crispy crust. It’s the perfect base for a deep dish pizza because it can hold up to the thick layers of sauce, cheese, and toppings without becoming soggy. The extra olive oil used in focaccia also adds a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with traditional pizza ingredients.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Focaccia Deep Dish Pizza

• Use a Hot Oven: Baking at a high temperature (500°F) is essential for achieving that crispy crust. A hot oven ensures that the dough cooks evenly and develops a golden-brown exterior without drying out.
• Don’t Skimp on the Olive Oil: The olive oil in the dough and the pan not only adds flavor but also helps create a beautiful crust. Make sure to generously grease the pan to avoid sticking and to enhance the crust’s texture.
• Let the Dough Rest: If the dough is too elastic and keeps shrinking when you try to spread it, give it some time to relax. A 10-minute rest will make it easier to stretch and shape.
• Customize Your Toppings: One of the joys of homemade pizza is making it your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, sauces, and toppings. Just remember to balance the moisture content, especially if using vegetables that release water when cooked.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the focaccia dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. This slow fermentation process will develop deeper flavors in the dough. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.
• Invest in a Good Pan: A deep dish pizza pan or a cast iron skillet is ideal for this recipe. These pans retain heat well and ensure an even bake, contributing to that perfect, crispy crust.

Homemade focaccia deep dish pizza is the perfect marriage of textures and flavors. The pillowy dough, rich olive oil crust, gooey cheese, and robust toppings make for a truly satisfying meal. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to create a restaurant-quality pizza right in your own kitchen.  So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a pizza that’s a little bit different but oh-so-delicious!