Detroit-Style Pizza captures the essence of comfort food with its iconic rectangular shape and thick, airy crust, meticulously topped with cheese that reaches all the way to the edges, creating a delectably crispy caramelized finish. This mouthwatering dish has sparked a wave of fans not just in Detroit but across the nation. Whether you’re enjoying a classic slice or exploring a keto version, both offer a satisfying journey into the world of pizza that’s unlike any other.
Introduction
When you think of pizza, chances are, the classic round shape comes to mind. But venture into the realm of Detroit-Style Pizza and you’ll discover a whole new world of flavors and textures that have charmed taste buds far and wide. This beloved dish is characterized by its unique rectangular shape and its tall, airy crust that’s golden brown on the outside and delightfully soft on the inside. Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice where rich cheese is caramelized to perfection, mingling with zesty tomato sauce and savory toppings.
Typically found in establishments like Buddy’s Pizza and Cloverleaf Pizza Palace, a slice can range from $2.50 to $5 depending on your toppings and locale. For those who want to keep it low-carb, the keto Detroit-Style Pizza offers an exciting alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor, allowing keto enthusiasts to savor the same beloved characteristics while adhering to their dietary needs.
Origin and Inspiration
Emerging in the Motor City during the 1940s, Detroit-Style Pizza was initially made by using blue steel pans — inspired by the automotive industry — to bake the pizzas. These deep, rectangular pans helped create a crust that is thicker than its Neapolitan counterparts, resulting in a wonderfully crisp exterior paired with an airy, soft interior. Traditionally topped with toppings beneath a layer of mozzarella cheese, the cheese caramelizes against the sides of the pan, leaving it with an irresistible crunch.
What makes this dish even more captivating is its cultural silhouettes shared with other global pizzas. For instance, its layered cheese approach bears resemblance to the Sicilian style, while its thick crust recalls the Chicago deep-dish style. In the keto adaptation, the classic dough is swapped out for a nut-based or cauliflower crust that brings a unique yet satisfying crunch, ensuring you still experience that beloved contrast of textures with the keto Detroit-Style Pizza.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
Traditional Version
Calories: 350 kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 850mg | Potassium: 200mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g
Keto Version
Calories: 300 kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 50mg | Sodium: 700mg | Potassium: 220mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 1g
Ingredients (2 Servings)
Shared Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup pepperoni or your choice of toppings
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Traditional Version
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp salt
Keto Version
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- Seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, etc.)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Batter/Dough/Base:
Traditional Version:
In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it stand until frothy, about 5 minutes. In a separate bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually mix in the yeast mixture until a dough forms. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth, then let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Keto Version:
In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, and baking powder. In another bowl, whisk the eggs with olive oil, then mix into the dry ingredients until fully combined. Let it rest for about 10 minutes.
2. Cooking Method:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). For the traditional dough, spread a generous amount of olive oil in your rectangular pan, then stretch and press the risen dough into the bottom and up the sides. For the keto variant, press the dough into a greased pan with your fingertips.
3. Shaping/Final Assembly:
- Evenly spread the sauce on top of the dough or directly over the cheese for the traditional method.
- Layer your toppings and generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top, allowing it to extend all the way to the edges for that classic caramelization.
4. Final Cooking and Serving:
- Bake both versions for 20-25 minutes. The edges should be golden brown, and the cheese should be bubbly and slightly darkened. Let cool for a few minutes, then slice into squares and serve, garnished with spices or extra herbs as desired.
What Does It Pair Well With?
- Traditional Pairing: Enjoy your slice with a side of garlic knots or a classic Caesar salad, washing it down with a craft beer that complements the rich flavors.
- Keto Pairing: Pair your keto slice with a refreshing sparkling water infused with lemon or a side of fresh greens for a light, low-carb meal.
What is the Shelf Life?
- Traditional Version: Best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container.
- Keto Version: Enjoyed fresh or can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Leftovers generally keep better due to the nature of almond flour.
- Freezing: Both versions can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and foil; reheat in the oven to get that freshly baked texture back.
Alternative Cooking Methods
- Grill: You can grill the pizza on a pizza stone for a smoky flavor. Grill each side for 5-7 minutes at medium heat, cooking with lid closed.
- Air Fryer: For smaller portions, use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes for a quick and crisp finish.
Conclusion
Detroit-Style Pizza is a masterpiece of culinary creativity, blending thick, pillow-like crusts with crispy, cheesy edges that create a heavenly bite. Whether opting for the classic version or embracing the keto adaptation, every slice offers a unique experience of flavors and textures. This dish is not only filling but also a versatile meal option that can fit beautifully into any dining occasion, elevating your pizza game to new heights. Enjoy it as a part of a balanced meal or indulge in its comfort as a satisfying snack, and let each bite take you on a delightful journey!
