What is Detroit Style Pizza?
Detroit style pizza is a rectangular pan pizza known for its crispy caramelized cheese edge (frico), airy interior crumb, and sauce applied in distinctive “racing stripes” on top. Unlike traditional round pizzas, Detroit style is baked in a deep rectangular pan, creating a thick yet light texture with a crispy bottom.
This unique combination of crispy, airy, and cheesy has made Detroit style one of the fastest-growing pizza styles in the United States.
The History of Detroit Style Pizza
Detroit style pizza originated in the 1940s at Buddy’s Rendezvous in Detroit, Michigan. The pizza was baked in blue steel automotive drip pans, which created the signature crispy edges that define the style today.
Key historical characteristics:
- Rectangular shape
- Thick, airy dough
- Cheese spread to the edges
- Sauce added after baking (or mid-bake)
- Baked in deep steel pans
Over time, the caramelized cheese edge became the defining feature.
What Makes Detroit Style Pizza Different?
Detroit style pizza stands apart from other pan pizzas because of:
- Cheese to the edge (creates frico crust)
- High hydration dough
- Deep rectangular pan
- Layering order: dough → cheese → toppings → sauce
- Crispy fried bottom
This combination creates texture contrast — crispy exterior with a soft interior.
The Signature Detroit Style Dough
Detroit style dough is typically:
- High hydration (65–75%)
- Strong bread flour
- Long cold fermentation
- Oil-rich pan environment
- Gentle handling to preserve air
The goal is a light, airy crumb, not dense bread-like texture.
Why the Cheese Goes to the Edge
One of the most important Detroit techniques is spreading cheese directly to the pan edge. As the pizza bakes, the cheese melts and fries against the pan, forming the crispy frico crust.
This step is what separates Detroit style from Sicilian-style pizzas.
Best cheeses for Detroit style:
- Brick cheese (traditional)
- Low moisture mozzarella
- Mozzarella + cheddar blend
- Mozzarella + Monterey Jack
The Detroit Style Pan
Traditional Detroit style pizza is baked in:
- Blue steel pans
- Anodized aluminum pans
- Steel Detroit-style pans
The pan depth and heat retention help create the crispy bottom.
Common sizes:
- 8" x 10"
- 10" x 14"
- 12" x 18"
Sauce “Racing Stripes”
Detroit style pizza often features sauce added in stripes across the top. This keeps the cheese exposed while adding bright tomato flavor.
Benefits:
- Prevents soggy cheese layer
- Adds visual identity
- Creates balanced bites
Baking Detroit Style Pizza at Home
To bake Detroit style at home:
- Preheat oven to highest temperature
- Oil pan generously
- Stretch dough gently
- Add cheese to edges
- Add toppings
- Bake until golden
- Add sauce stripes
- Finish bake if needed
Common Detroit Style Mistakes
Avoid these mistakes:
- Too little oil in pan
- Cheese not reaching edges
- Underproofed dough
- Low oven temperature
- Too much sauce before bake
- Overhandling dough
Why Detroit Style Pizza is Trending
Detroit style pizza has exploded in popularity because:
- Unique texture
- Instagram-friendly look
- Easy to portion
- High perceived value
- Works well in home ovens
Many pizzerias now add Detroit style to their menu.
Learn Detroit Style Pizza Online
The fastest way to master Detroit style pizza is through structured instruction. Virtual Pizza Academy offers a live interactive Detroit Style Pizza class covering:
- Dough mixing
- Fermentation timing
- Pan preparation
- Cheese edge technique
- Baking methods
- Sauce application
Students receive a downloadable handbook and 30-day replay access.
FAQ
What hydration is Detroit style pizza dough?
Typically 65–75% hydration depending on flour and fermentation.
What cheese is best for Detroit style pizza?
Brick cheese is traditional, but mozzarella blends work well.
Can I make Detroit style without a Detroit pan?
Yes, but steel pans produce the best results.
Why is Detroit style pizza crispy?
Oil in the pan and cheese caramelization create the crispy texture.
Is Detroit style pizza beginner friendly?
Yes, it’s one of the easiest styles to achieve great results at home.
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