Growing up in the heart of Detroit, I can still remember the first time I sank my teeth into a piping hot slice of Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza. The crisp, golden-brown crust, the ooey-gooey mozzarella, and the spicy pepperoni – it was a flavor explosion that left a lasting impression. Even now, years later, the mere thought of that iconic Detroit-style pizza has me craving a trip back home.
Why This Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza
What sets this Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza apart is the unique combination of a thick, chewy crust and the signature red stripes of marinara sauce peeking through the melted cheese. The secret lies in the dough, which is made with a precise blend of all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, and warm water. The addition of olive oil and salt creates a perfect balance of flavors, resulting in a crust that’s both crisp on the outside and tender on the inside.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the crust, providing structure and chewiness.
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast: Crucial for the dough to rise and achieve that signature Detroit-style texture.
- 1 cup warm water: Activating the yeast and bringing the dough together.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adding richness and a subtle flavor to the crust.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhancing the overall taste and balancing the sweetness of the dough.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melting into a gooey, stretchy topping that’s characteristic of Detroit-style pizza.
- 1 package (8 ounces) pepperoni, sliced: Providing that classic spicy-and-savory flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
Step-by-Step Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza Instructions
Preparing Your Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza
Prep time for this Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza recipe is just 10 minutes, and the cook time is 20 minutes, for a total time of 30 minutes. You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a rolling pin, and a square baking pan or cast-iron skillet to get started.
1- Begin by combining the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, and warm water in the mixing bowl. Use your hands to knead the dough until it comes together, about 2-3 minutes. The dough should be slightly sticky but still easy to handle.
2- Drizzle the olive oil into the bowl and use your hands to coat the dough with the oil. Cover the bowl with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise for 30 minutes.
3- After the dough has risen, use your hands to press it into the prepared baking pan or cast-iron skillet, making sure to spread it evenly to the edges.
4- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Arrange the sliced pepperoni on top of the cheese, creating that iconic red stripe pattern.
5- Bake the Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza in a preheated oven at 450°F for 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6- Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy this delicious, Detroit-style masterpiece with family and friends!
Pro Tips for Success
- Let the dough rise for the full 30 minutes to ensure a light and airy crust.
- Press the dough firmly into the baking pan or cast-iron skillet to create a crisp, evenly distributed base.
- Arrange the pepperoni in parallel lines to achieve the signature red stripe pattern.
- Bake the pizza on the lower rack of the oven to get a perfectly golden-brown crust on the bottom.
Serving and Storing Your Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza
Perfect Pairings for Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza
This Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza recipe yields 6 servings, making it the perfect centerpiece for a cozy movie night, game day gathering, or casual dinner party. Pair it with a fresh green salad, garlic breadsticks, and a crisp, cold beer or a robust red wine for a truly satisfying meal.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place a slice on a baking sheet and warm it in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is crisp and the cheese is melted.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and proceed with the remaining steps. You can also freeze the baked pizza for up to 2 months – just wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and reheat it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza
Creative Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza Variations
While the classic Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza is a true delight, you can easily put your own spin on it. Try adding sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers for a flavor-packed veggie version. Or, switch up the protein and use Italian sausage, ground beef, or chopped ham instead of pepperoni. For a spicier twist, sprinkle on some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
Making Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe more diet-friendly, you can swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. For a low-carb option, use almond flour or cauliflower pizza crust instead. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, replace the mozzarella cheese with your favorite vegan alternative, and skip the pepperoni in favor of plant-based “meat” crumbles or sautéed vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?
A: While mozzarella is the traditional choice for Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza, you can experiment with other melty cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or a blend of your favorites.
Q: How do I ensure the crust is cooked through in the 20-minute baking time?
A: To ensure the crust is perfectly cooked, bake the pizza on the lower rack of the oven to get a crisp, golden-brown bottom. You can also let the dough rise for the full 30 minutes to create a lighter, airier crust.
Q: Can I make this pizza ahead of time and freeze it?
A: Absolutely! Bake the pizza, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place the frozen pizza in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: How many people does this Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza recipe serve?
A: This recipe yields 6 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering of friends.
Q: What can I do if the crust turns out too dense or chewy?
A: If the crust is too dense or chewy, it’s likely that the dough didn’t rise enough. Next time, make sure to let the dough rise for the full 30 minutes, and be gentle when pressing it into the baking pan or skillet.
Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Indulge in the divine taste of Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza, a mouthwatering fusion of a thick, crispy crust, gooey cheese, and savory pepperoni. This quick and easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for a family dinner or game day gathering.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 package (8 ounces) pepperoni, sliced
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Add the warm water and olive oil, and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Press the dough into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, stretching it to the edges.
5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, followed by the pepperoni slices.
6. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
7. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a twist, try using different types of cheese or toppings to customize the pizza to your liking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Detroit-Style Red Stripe Pizza is a true taste of Motor City magic, and I can’t wait for you to experience it. The perfect balance of a crisp, golden-brown crust, gooey mozzarella, and spicy pepperoni will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Detroit-style pizza or you’re trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven and get ready to savor a slice of this delicious, Detroit-inspired masterpiece.
