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Lou Malnatis Pizza Dough Recipe

This Lou Malnati’s Pizza Dough Recipe is a homemade take on Chicago’s most beloved deep-dish crust. With olive oil, cornmeal, and a long resting process, this dough turns out soft yet crispy with the perfect buttery bite.
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Prep Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310
Ingredients Video Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredient
  • 16 ounces warm water
  • 1/8 ounce active dry yeast
  • 1/2 ounce salt
  • 2 lbs all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fine yellow cornmeal
Topping & Assembly (Optional, for a classic Lou Malnati’s Style Pizza)
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 1/2 cups chunky tomato sauce (lightly seasoned)
  • Fresh basil or oregano (optional)
  • Toppings of choice: sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, or spinach

Video

Notes

Required Kitchen Tools

To make your Lou Malnati’s pizza dough successfully, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference:
  1. Stand Mixer with Dough Hook – Speeds up mixing and kneading.
  2. Large Mixing Bowl – For proofing the dough in a warm environment.
  3. Measuring Cups & Digital Scale – Accuracy is key in dough making.
  4. Pizza Pan or Cast Iron Skillet – A deep, round dish is ideal for shaping authentic Chicago-style pizza.
  5. Rolling Pin – To help spread the rested dough evenly.
  6. Baking Sheet – To catch any bubbling cheese or sauce overflow in the oven.