What Is Detroit Style Pizza? It’s a rectangular pan pizza with a thick, airy crust, crispy cheese edges, and sauce dolloped on top, a culinary experience distinct from New York or Neapolitan styles. This unique pizza, originating from Detroit, Michigan, offers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors, including tangy brick cheese and a rich tomato sauce, and we here at WHAT.EDU.VN can help you learn all about it. Discover the appeal of this regional specialty and explore variations like the classic pepperoni or even a unique deep dish pizza.
1. Unveiling the History of Detroit Style Pizza
The origins of Detroit style pizza are rooted in the post-World War II era in Detroit, Michigan. But what propelled this unique style from a local favorite to a national sensation?
1.1. From Auto Parts to Culinary Art
The story begins in 1946 at Buddy’s Rendezvous (now Buddy’s Pizza), a Detroit bar owned by Gus Guerra. Gus and his wife Anna decided to use Anna’s mother’s Sicilian dough recipe and bake it in blue steel pans borrowed from local automotive factories. These pans, designed to hold small parts, gave the pizza its distinctive rectangular shape and deep dish. The result? A pizza with a thick, chewy crust, a crispy, caramelized cheese edge, and a unique flavor profile.
1.2. The Rise of Buddy’s Pizza
Buddy’s Pizza quickly became a Detroit institution, known for its signature rectangular pizza. The use of brick cheese, a Wisconsin cheese with a high butterfat content, contributed to the pizza’s signature crispy, cheesy edge. The sauce, typically a sweet and chunky tomato sauce, was dolloped on top of the cheese after baking, further distinguishing it from other pizza styles.
1.3. A Regional Secret No More
For decades, Detroit style pizza remained largely a regional specialty, enjoyed primarily within the Detroit metropolitan area. However, in the early 2000s, food bloggers and pizza enthusiasts began to take notice. Articles and online forums started to sing the praises of this unique and delicious pizza.
1.4. The National Explosion
The popularity of Detroit style pizza exploded in the 2010s. Pizzerias specializing in Detroit style pizza began to pop up in cities across the United States, from New York City to Los Angeles. Food publications like Serious Eats and The New York Times published articles detailing the history and characteristics of Detroit style pizza, further fueling its rise in popularity.
1.5. The Modern Detroit Style Pizza Landscape
Today, Detroit style pizza is a nationally recognized and beloved pizza style. While variations exist, the core characteristics remain the same: a rectangular shape, a thick, airy crust, a crispy cheese edge, and a sauce-on-top application.
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2. Key Characteristics of Authentic Detroit Style Pizza
What truly sets Detroit style pizza apart from other rectangular pizzas? It’s a combination of crust, cheese, sauce, and pan that creates a truly unique pizza experience.
2.1. The Signature Rectangular Shape
Unlike round pizzas, Detroit style pizza is baked in a rectangular pan, typically 10×14 inches. This shape is not merely aesthetic; it’s essential to the pizza’s unique texture and the development of the crispy cheese edge.
2.2. The Thick and Airy Crust
The crust is arguably the most important element. It is a thick, airy dough with a light and chewy interior. The dough is typically high-hydration, meaning it contains a higher ratio of water to flour, which contributes to its open crumb structure and airy texture.
2.3. The Crispy Cheese Edge
Perhaps the most defining characteristic, the crispy cheese edge is formed by pressing the cheese all the way to the edges of the pan, allowing it to caramelize and crisp up against the hot metal. This creates a delightful contrast of textures and a burst of cheesy flavor.
2.4. Brick Cheese: The Traditional Choice
Authentic Detroit style pizza traditionally uses brick cheese, a semi-hard cheese from Wisconsin with a mild, buttery flavor and a high butterfat content. This high fat content is crucial for creating the crispy, caramelized cheese edge. While brick cheese can be difficult to find outside of the Midwest, other cheeses, such as a blend of mozzarella and Monterey Jack, can be used as substitutes.
2.5. Sauce on Top: An Unconventional Approach
Unlike most pizzas, where the sauce is applied directly to the dough, Detroit style pizza typically features sauce dolloped on top of the cheese after baking. This unconventional approach prevents the crust from becoming soggy and allows the cheese to fully caramelize. The sauce is typically a chunky tomato sauce, seasoned with herbs and spices.
2.6. The Importance of the Pan
The pan plays a critical role. Traditional Detroit style pizzas are baked in blue steel pans, which are known for their excellent heat conductivity. Modern variations often use anodized aluminum pans with a non-stick coating. The deep sides of the pan create the characteristic deep dish and help to contain the cheese and sauce.
3. Crafting the Perfect Detroit Style Pizza Dough
What are the secrets to achieving that perfect thick, airy, and slightly chewy crust that defines Detroit style pizza? It all starts with the dough.
3.1. High-Hydration Dough: The Key to Airiness
The dough is typically high-hydration, meaning it contains a higher ratio of water to flour. A hydration level of 70-75% is common. This high hydration creates a wet dough that is more difficult to handle but results in a lighter, airier crumb.
3.2. Flour Power: Bread Flour vs. All-Purpose
While some recipes call for all-purpose flour, bread flour is generally preferred for Detroit style pizza dough. Bread flour has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour, which results in a stronger gluten network and a chewier texture.
3.3. The No-Knead Option
While traditional recipes involve kneading, a no-knead method can also be used to create a Detroit style pizza dough. This involves mixing the ingredients together and allowing the dough to rest for an extended period, during which time the gluten develops naturally.
3.4. Autolyse: Enhancing Dough Development
Autolyse is a technique where the flour and water are mixed together and allowed to rest for 20-30 minutes before adding the yeast and salt. This allows the flour to fully hydrate and the gluten to begin developing, resulting in a more extensible and flavorful dough.
3.5. The Importance of Resting and Proofing
After mixing, the dough needs to rest and proof to allow the yeast to ferment and the gluten to relax. This can be done in the refrigerator for 24-72 hours for optimal flavor development. Before baking, the dough should be brought to room temperature and allowed to proof in the pan for a few hours.
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4. Selecting the Right Cheese for Detroit Style Perfection
What’s the secret to that crispy, golden-brown cheese edge that’s synonymous with Detroit style pizza? Choosing the right cheese is paramount.
4.1. Brick Cheese: The Gold Standard
Authentic Detroit style pizza traditionally uses brick cheese, a semi-hard cheese from Wisconsin. Brick cheese has a mild, buttery flavor and a high butterfat content, which is essential for creating the crispy, caramelized cheese edge.
4.2. Understanding Brick Cheese Characteristics
Brick cheese gets its name from the bricks that were originally used to press the cheese during production. It has a higher moisture content than mozzarella but a lower moisture content than cheddar. Its mild flavor allows it to blend well with other ingredients without overpowering them.
4.3. Finding Brick Cheese Alternatives
Brick cheese can be difficult to find outside of the Midwest. If you can’t find brick cheese, a blend of mozzarella and Monterey Jack cheese can be used as a substitute. This combination provides a similar flavor profile and melting characteristics.
4.4. The Importance of Butterfat
Regardless of the cheese you choose, it’s important to select a cheese with a high butterfat content. Butterfat is what allows the cheese to caramelize and crisp up against the hot pan, creating the signature Detroit style cheese edge.
4.5. Shredded vs. Cubed: The Optimal Application
The cheese should be cubed or shredded and spread evenly over the dough, making sure to extend it all the way to the edges of the pan. This ensures that the cheese will melt and crisp up against the sides of the pan.
5. Crafting the Perfect Detroit Style Pizza Sauce
The sauce on Detroit style pizza is more than just a topping; it’s an integral part of the flavor profile. What distinguishes it from other pizza sauces?
5.1. Chunky Tomato Sauce: A Signature Element
Detroit style pizza sauce is typically a chunky tomato sauce, rather than a smooth purée. This chunky texture adds another layer of complexity to the pizza.
5.2. Sweetness and Spice: Balancing the Flavors
The sauce is typically seasoned with herbs and spices, such as oregano, basil, garlic, and red pepper flakes. A touch of sugar is often added to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance the sweetness of the sauce.
5.3. Fresh vs. Canned: The Tomato Debate
While some recipes call for fresh tomatoes, canned crushed tomatoes are a convenient and reliable option. Look for high-quality canned tomatoes, such as San Marzano tomatoes, for the best flavor.
5.4. Cooking the Sauce: Developing the Flavors
The sauce should be simmered for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This also helps to reduce the sauce and thicken it slightly.
5.5. Sauce Application: The Final Touch
Unlike most pizzas, where the sauce is applied directly to the dough, Detroit style pizza typically features sauce dolloped on top of the cheese after baking. This unconventional approach prevents the crust from becoming soggy and allows the cheese to fully caramelize.
6. Selecting the Right Pan for Authentic Detroit Style Pizza
What is it about those rectangular pans that contributes to the unique texture and crust of Detroit style pizza? The pan is more important than you might think.
6.1. The Blue Steel Legacy
Traditional Detroit style pizzas were baked in blue steel pans, which were originally used in automotive factories. These pans are known for their excellent heat conductivity and their ability to create a crispy crust.
6.2. Modern Alternatives: Anodized Aluminum
While blue steel pans are still available, modern variations often use anodized aluminum pans with a non-stick coating. These pans are more affordable and easier to maintain.
6.3. Pan Dimensions: The Ideal Size
The ideal pan size for Detroit style pizza is typically 10×14 inches. This size allows for a thick, deep-dish pizza with a generous amount of cheese and sauce.
6.4. Deep Dish Design: Essential for the Style
The deep sides of the pan are essential for creating the characteristic deep dish and helping to contain the cheese and sauce.
6.5. Seasoning the Pan: Creating a Non-Stick Surface
If you are using a blue steel pan, it is important to season it properly to create a non-stick surface. This involves coating the pan with oil and baking it at a high temperature for several hours.
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7. Toppings and Variations: Beyond the Classic Pepperoni
While pepperoni is the most popular topping for Detroit style pizza, there are endless possibilities for customization. What are some other popular and creative topping combinations?
7.1. Pepperoni: The Timeless Choice
Pepperoni is the classic topping for Detroit style pizza. The pepperoni is typically placed directly on the dough, underneath the cheese. Some pizzerias also add pepperoni on top of the cheese for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
7.2. Mushroom Medley: An Earthy Delight
Mushrooms are a popular vegetarian option. A combination of different types of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms, can add a complex and earthy flavor.
7.3. Sausage Sensation: A Savory Kick
Sausage is another popular topping. Italian sausage, with its bold and savory flavor, is a classic choice.
7.4. Veggie Variety: A Colorful Combination
A combination of different vegetables, such as onions, peppers, olives, and tomatoes, can add a burst of color and flavor.
7.5. The Hawaiian Twist: Sweet and Savory
The Hawaiian pizza, with its combination of ham and pineapple, is a controversial but popular choice. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the saltiness of the ham, creating a unique and satisfying flavor combination.
7.6. Spicy Supreme: A Fiery Kick
For those who like a little heat, a spicy supreme pizza with pepperoni, sausage, jalapenos, and red pepper flakes is a great option.
8. Baking Techniques: Achieving the Perfect Crust and Cheese
What are the key techniques for baking Detroit style pizza to achieve that perfectly crispy crust and golden-brown cheese? It’s all about heat and timing.
8.1. Oven Temperature: High Heat is Key
Detroit style pizza should be baked at a high temperature, typically between 450-500°F (232-260°C). This high heat allows the crust to crisp up quickly and the cheese to caramelize properly.
8.2. Oven Placement: Finding the Sweet Spot
The pizza should be placed on the bottom rack of the oven to ensure that the crust gets enough heat. If the top of the pizza is browning too quickly, you can move it to a higher rack.
8.3. Baking Time: Monitoring for Perfection
The baking time will vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the pizza. Typically, Detroit style pizza takes about 15-20 minutes to bake.
8.4. The Cheese Test: Looking for Caramelization
The pizza is done when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and caramelized around the edges.
8.5. The Sauce Application: Timing is Everything
The sauce is typically dolloped on top of the cheese after baking. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy and allows the cheese to fully caramelize.
9. Serving and Enjoying Your Homemade Detroit Style Pizza
Once your Detroit style pizza is baked to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy. What are some tips for cutting, serving, and complementing your homemade masterpiece?
9.1. Cutting the Pizza: Rectangular Slices
Detroit style pizza is typically cut into rectangular slices. A pizza cutter or a sharp knife can be used to cut the pizza.
9.2. Serving Suggestions: Simple is Best
Detroit style pizza is best served hot, straight from the oven. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a simple side salad.
9.3. Beverage Pairings: Complementing the Flavors
A variety of beverages can be paired with Detroit style pizza. Beer, wine, and soda are all popular choices.
9.4. Reheating Tips: Preserving the Crispness
If you have leftovers, Detroit style pizza can be reheated in the oven or in a skillet. To preserve the crispness of the crust, it is best to reheat the pizza on a baking sheet in a preheated oven.
9.5. Storage Suggestions: Keeping it Fresh
Leftover Detroit style pizza should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 2-3 days.
10. Detroit Style Pizza vs. Other Pizza Styles: A Comparative Analysis
What distinguishes Detroit style pizza from other popular pizza styles, such as New York style, Neapolitan, and Chicago deep dish? Let’s break down the key differences.
10.1. Shape and Size: Round vs. Rectangular
The most obvious difference is the shape. New York and Neapolitan pizzas are round, while Detroit style pizza is rectangular. Chicago deep dish is also round, but it is much thicker than New York or Neapolitan pizzas.
10.2. Crust Thickness: Thin vs. Thick
New York and Neapolitan pizzas have thin crusts, while Detroit style and Chicago deep dish pizzas have thick crusts.
10.3. Crust Texture: Crispy vs. Chewy
New York style pizza has a crispy crust, while Neapolitan pizza has a soft and chewy crust. Detroit style pizza has a crispy bottom crust and a chewy interior. Chicago deep dish pizza has a buttery and flaky crust.
10.4. Sauce Application: Under vs. Over
New York, Neapolitan, and Chicago deep dish pizzas have the sauce applied directly to the dough, underneath the cheese. Detroit style pizza typically features sauce dolloped on top of the cheese after baking.
10.5. Cheese Type: Mozzarella vs. Brick
New York, Neapolitan, and Chicago deep dish pizzas typically use mozzarella cheese. Detroit style pizza traditionally uses brick cheese.
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FAQ: Your Detroit Style Pizza Questions Answered
Still have questions about Detroit style pizza? Here are some frequently asked questions to further enhance your understanding.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What makes Detroit style pizza unique? | Its rectangular shape, thick and airy crust, crispy cheese edge, and sauce-on-top application. |
| What kind of cheese is used? | Traditionally, brick cheese is used, a semi-hard cheese from Wisconsin with a mild, buttery flavor. |
| What is the best pan to use? | Blue steel pans were traditionally used, but modern variations often use anodized aluminum pans with a non-stick coating. |
| Why is the sauce on top? | Applying the sauce after baking prevents the crust from becoming soggy and allows the cheese to fully caramelize. |
| What are some popular toppings? | Pepperoni is the classic choice, but other popular toppings include mushrooms, sausage, onions, peppers, and olives. |
| How do I get a crispy cheese edge? | Press the cheese all the way to the edges of the pan, allowing it to caramelize and crisp up against the hot metal. |
| What temperature should I bake it at? | Bake at a high temperature, typically between 450-500°F (232-260°C). |
| How do I store leftovers? | Store leftover Detroit style pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 2-3 days. |
| Can I make it vegetarian? | Yes, you can easily make it vegetarian by omitting the meat toppings and adding more vegetables. |
| Is it difficult to make at home? | While it requires some attention to detail, Detroit style pizza is relatively easy to make at home with the right recipe and equipment. |
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