Savory Detroit Style Pizza: Your New Favorite Homemade Delight
Last Updated on May 8, 2026 by rodrigorecipez
The moment I first dug into a slice of Detroit-style pizza, I knew I had discovered something special. It’s that delightful combination of a thick, airy crust, crispy edges, and gooey cheese that gets my heart racing. Inspired by the bustling pizzerias of Motor City, I’ve developed this easy-to-make recipe that brings all the flavors of a classic Detroit-style pizza right into my kitchen.
Imagine the scent of sizzling bacon mingling with savory sausage while the cheese melts to perfection. With minimal effort and just a few quality ingredients, you can impress your family and friends with a homemade pizza that’s far superior to any takeout. Whether you re hosting game night or simply craving a comforting meal, this pizza is versatile enough to satisfy any occasion. So, let s roll up our sleeves and dive into making a mouthwatering Detroit-style pizza that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Detroit Style Pizza a Game Changer?
Flavor Explosion: The luscious combination of crispy bacon, hearty sausage, and decadent cheese creates a taste experience that is simply unforgettable.
Easy Preparation: With store-bought dough and straightforward steps, you’ll have an amazing pizza on the table in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, this pizza offers something for everyone, ensuring your guests will leave happy.
Fun to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or experiment with sauces; the possibilities are endless!
Comforting Nostalgia: Nothing beats a homemade pizza that brings friends and family together, creating lasting memories around the dinner table. Explore more delightful pizza options with our collection of homemade pizza recipes!
Detroit Style Pizza Ingredients
Get ready to craft the ultimate Detroit-style pizza masterpiece!
For the Dough
16 ounces store bought pizza dough A convenient base that saves time while still delivering that beloved homemade taste.
For the Toppings
2 slices bacon (chopped) Adds a savory crunch that elevates the entire pizza experience.
4 ounces ground sausage This meaty addition brings rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
16 ounces mozzarella (cut in cubes) Gooey, melty cheese is essential for that signature Detroit-style pizza stretch!
1/2 cup tomato sauce Provides a lovely tang that complements the toppings.
1 tsp Italian seasoning Enhances the flavor profile with aromatic herbs and spices.
7 slices sandwich style pepperonis (cut into triangles) Adds a fun and classic flair to your pizza.
3/4 cup shredded mozzarella For that extra layer of cheesy goodness across the top.
1 cup San Marzano style whole peeled pear tomatoes The perfect finishing touch to add freshness and color to your dish.
For Garnish (optional)
Fresh chopped basil A bright, aromatic touch that adds warmth and beauty.
Crushed red pepper For those who enjoy a little heat!
Dried oregano A sprinkle for added flavor and classic Italian essence.
By gathering these delicious ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a Detroit-style pizza that will have everyone coming back for more!
How to Make Detroit Style Pizza
Thaw dough: Begin by thawing your store-bought frozen pizza dough according to the package instructions. This helps achieve the perfect texture for your crust.
Prep for rising: In a bowl, coat the thawed dough with olive oil and cover it with plastic wrap. Set it aside to rise for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing it to expand and become light.
Brown the bacon: In a medium pan over medium-high heat, cook the chopped bacon for about 2 minutes until crispy. Drain it on paper towels to remove excess grease and ensure a satisfying crunch.
Cook the sausage: In the same pan, add the ground sausage and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain on paper towels to keep your pizza from being too greasy.
Prepare the pans: Grease your baking pans with olive oil, then stretch the dough to cover the entire surface. If the dough resists, let it rest for a few moments to relax.
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 450°F (232°C) to ensure a hot environment for baking, which will give your pizza that delightful crispiness.
Add cheese: Press the cubed mozzarella evenly into the top of the stretched dough, ensuring each slice will be loaded with cheesy goodness.
Layer with sauce: If you wish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough to add a lovely flavor base before adding toppings.
Sprinkle toppings: Evenly distribute the pepperoni, cooked sausage, bacon, and Italian seasoning over the cheese, creating a beautiful and aromatic topping blend.
Finish with mozzarella: Scatter shredded mozzarella in the open spaces around the meats to achieve that classic gooey melt. You can also add stripes of tomato sauce for an extra burst of flavor!
Allow to rise: Let the pizza rise again for about 20 minutes, covered with plastic wrap, giving it time to puff up and become fluffy.
Bake it: Place the pizzas in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 8 minutes. Then rotate and bake for an additional 7 to 9 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly browned, with bubbly goodness.
Cool slightly: Once baked to perfection, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 3 to 5 minutes. This helps set the cheese and makes for easier cutting.
Serve and garnish: Transfer your delicious pizza to a cutting board. Optionally, top it with crushed tomatoes and a sprinkle of fresh basil, crushed red pepper, and dried oregano for added flavor. Cut into squares and serve immediately for a mouthwatering delight!
Optional: For an extra zing, drizzle with a touch of olive oil before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Detroit Style Pizza?
Creating the perfect meal experience alongside your homemade Detroit-style pizza is as delightful as crafting the pizza itself.
- Crispy Caesar Salad: A refreshing salad with romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing to balance the rich flavors of your pizza.
- Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic and herbs provide a wonderful bread side that complements any pizza night.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add a pop of color and a hint of sweetness, elevating your dining experience.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of a homemade coleslaw can cut through the richness of the pizza, offering a fresh contrast.
- Italian Wines: A bottle of Chianti or a crisp Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors of your pizza while setting the perfect dining atmosphere.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies that are simply irresistible alongside a slice of pizza.
- Spicy Tomato Soup: Pair your pizza with a bowl of zesty tomato soup for a taste of classic comfort food that warms the soul.
Whether you stick to classic sides or explore new flavors, enjoy bringing your family and friends together with a truly unforgettable meal!
How to Store and Freeze Detroit Style Pizza
Fridge: Store leftover Detroit-style pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for a quick reheat.
Freezer: If you want to keep your pizza longer, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat individual slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and cheese is melty again.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving pizza at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage. Enjoy your homemade goodness while it’s fresh!
Make Ahead Options
These savory Detroit-style pizzas are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the pizza dough and toppings up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps of thawing the dough and cooking the bacon and sausage, then refrigerate them separately in airtight containers. When you re ready to bake, stretch the dough into the pan, press in the cubed cheese, and layer the sausage, bacon, and pepperoni on top. Let it rise for about 20 minutes before baking. This way, you ll enjoy a fresh, delicious pizza that s just as delightful as if you made it on the spot not to mention the time you ll save!
Detroit Style Pizza Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your homemade Detroit-style pizza, adding flair and flavor to your creation!
Veggie Delight: Load up with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a fresh touch. These add vibrant color and nutrients, making each bite a little healthier.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to bring some heat to your pizza. The balance of spice against the cheesy goodness will tingle your taste buds!
Meat Lovers: Double up on the sausage and bacon for an irresistible meaty feast that will satisfy any carnivore’s cravings. This heartier version becomes a true centerpiece for meat enthusiasts.
BBQ Twist: Swap the tomato sauce for tangy barbecue sauce and add grilled chicken pieces, giving your pizza a smoky twist. The fusion of flavors creates an exciting pizza experience!
Cheesy Crust: Mix some parmesan or feta cheese into the edges of the dough before baking for a delightful cheesy surprise in every bite. This addition will give your crust that extra flavor boost.
Herbed Crust: Blend dried herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for an aromatic touch that enhances every mouthful. The earthy notes will delight your senses!
Pesto Perfection: Spread a layer of pesto instead of traditional tomato sauce; this herbaceous twist will elevate your pizza to gourmet status. The depth of flavors in pesto is a delightful surprise.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts over the cheese for a unique crunch that adds texture and an unexpected flavor contrast that’s simply divine.
Explore these variations to discover a new favorite or share your creations with friends and family for an unforgettable pizza night!
Expert Tips for Detroit Style Pizza
Dough Temperature: Make sure the dough is at room temperature before stretching. Cold dough can be challenging to work with and may not rise well.
Topping Placement: Layer the cheese directly on the dough first for a classic Detroit-style pizza. This helps achieve that signature gooey melt while keeping the toppings crisp.
Oven Prep: Preheat the oven thoroughly before baking. A well-heated oven helps create a crisp crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
Crispy Cheese Edges: For extra crispy edges, sprinkle a bit of cheese around the perimeter of the pizza. The cheese will melt and caramelize, adding delightful texture.
Common Mistake: Avoid overcrowding the toppings. Too many ingredients can lead to soggy pizza, so stick with a balanced ratio for the best Detroit style pizza experience.
Let It Rest: After baking, let your pizza rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set and makes cutting much easier.
Detroit Style Pizza Recipe FAQs
What type of store-bought dough is best for Detroit-style pizza?
For the fullest flavor and best results, I recommend using high-quality pizza dough that is refrigerated rather than frozen, if available. Look for dough that has a nice stretch when taken out from the package, which helps create that fluffy texture characteristic of a Detroit-style pizza.
How should I store leftover Detroit-style pizza?
Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze Detroit-style pizza? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the pizza cool completely first. Then, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there’s no air trapped inside. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag and label with the date. This technique keeps your pizza fresh-tasting for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven.
What should I do if my pizza dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn t rise properly, ensure it’s at room temperature before stretching and that your yeast used in the dough is fresh. Additionally, the rising process might be hindered by cold temperatures, so find a warm place in your kitchen to help it along. If all else fails, simply reshape it and proceed; a denser crust will still taste great!
Is this pizza suitable for those with allergies?
If you or your guests have dietary restrictions or allergies, consider using gluten-free pizza dough and checking all toppings for allergens. You can customize your sauce and cheese selection to fit dietary needs, creating a delicious and safe meal for everyone at the table.
How long can I leave Detroit-style pizza at room temperature?
You should avoid leaving the pizza out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage. After that, it’s best to store it in the fridge, keeping your delicious creation fresh and enjoyable!