Pan pizza is a style of pizza that is baked in a deep, oiled pan rather than directly on a baking stone or sheet. This results in a thicker, chewier crust with a crispy, fried bottom. Pan pizza originated in the United States; the best-documented early example is Chicago's deep-dish style, created in 1943 at what became Pizzeria Uno.
The key defining feature of pan pizza is the way it is baked. Rather than being stretched or tossed into a round shape and baked directly on a hot surface, the dough for a pan pizza is pressed into an oiled baking pan, often a cast iron skillet or deep dish pizza pan. This allows the dough to rise up the sides of the pan, creating a thick, sturdy crust. As the pizza bakes, the oil in the pan fries the bottom of the crust, giving it a crispy, almost fried texture.
Pan pizza is a popular style of pizza, especially in the Midwestern and Northeastern United States. It is closely associated with Chicago-style deep dish pizza, which features an extremely thick, tall crust that is similar to a pie. However, pan pizza can also have a thinner crust, more akin to Sicilian-style pizza. Regardless of the exact crust thickness, the use of a pan is the defining characteristic.
In terms of toppings and fillings, pan pizza is quite versatile. The thick crust can support a wide variety of sauces, cheeses, meats, vegetables, and other ingredients. Chicago-style deep dish pizza is known for its layers of ingredients, with the sauce typically on top. Other pan pizzas may have the toppings mixed into the cheese or layered in a more traditional fashion.
Pan pizza is a beloved comfort food in many parts of the United States. It is often served at family gatherings, sports events, and other casual social occasions. The thick, crispy crust and generous toppings make pan pizza a filling and satisfying meal. It is also a popular option for delivery and takeout, as the sturdy crust and deep pan help the pizza retain its shape and temperature during transport.
While pan pizza is most strongly associated with American cuisine, variations on the style can be found in other parts of the world. For example, the Sicilian-style pizza, which is baked in a rectangular pan, shares some similarities with pan pizza. Additionally, some pizzerias in Italy and other countries have experimented with baking pizza in specialized pans to achieve a thicker, chewier crust.
Overall, pan pizza is a distinct and beloved style of pizza that has become an integral part of American culinary culture. Its thick, crispy crust and versatile toppings make it a satisfying and comforting meal that is enjoyed by pizza lovers around the world.