Pizza has always been a go-to comfort food, but the flavors can be taken to the next level with the right pairings. When diving into a slice of Pizza Hut’s Chicago Tavern Style Pizza, consider complementing it with:
A crisp, green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette enhances the savory elements of the pizza. Try a classic Caesar or a simple garden salad with cucumbers and tomatoes.
Garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks serve as a delightful prelude. Their warm, crispy goodness sets the stage for the main event.
An ice-cold craft beer hits just right with a pizza feast. A pale ale or a lager can offset the richness of the cheese and toppings.
For a lighter option, sparkling water with a twist of lime can cleanse your palate, refreshing you between bites.

Let’s be honest: who doesn’t love pizza? It’s one of those magical dishes that brings people together. Whether it’s a celebration or a casual night in, pizza is our trusted ally. And now, if you find yourself daydreaming about a crispy crust layered with melty cheese, then you’re likely thinking of Pizza Hut’s Chicago Tavern Style Pizza.
It’s all about the experience—the unforgettable crunch, the unique toppings, and that signature sauce. In this post, I’m excited to share how to recreate this iconic dish right from your kitchen!
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What Is Pizza Hut Chicago Tavern Style Pizza?
If you’ve ever wondering what sets Chicago Tavern Style Pizza apart from traditional Chicago deep-dish, the answer lies in its simplicity. This pizza features a thin, crispy crust that’s cut into delightful squares, making it perfect for sharing.
The generous toppings and rich sauce create an irresistible flavor profile. It’s a delightful fusion of texture and taste that pleases any pizza lover’s palate.
Why This Recipe Works
You might wonder why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen. Well, listen up. This straightforward approach keeps preparation time manageable, ensuring you don’t spend all day cooking. Using high-quality ingredients further elevates the dish, creating an authentic Chicago experience that rivals the restaurants. And the best part?
The customizable nature of this recipe allows you to get creative. Whether you’re a meat lover or a vegetarian, there’s a version just for you.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Before we start donning our aprons, let’s gather what you’ll need to whip up this delectable pizza:
For the Sauce:
- Unsalted butter
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Garlic
- Tomato paste
- Whole peeled tomatoes
- Fish sauce
- Red wine vinegar
- Granulated sugar
- Kosher salt
- Dried herbs (basil, oregano, marjoram)
- Ground black pepper
For the Dough (makes 2 dough balls):
- High-gluten bread flour
- Fine cornmeal
- Granulated sugar
- Instant yeast
- Cold filtered water
- Olive oil
For Toppings (per pizza):
- Prepared sauce
- Raw Italian sausage
- Parmesan cheese
- Low-moisture mozzarella
- Chicago-style giardiniera
- Black olives (optional)

How to Make Pizza Hut Chicago Tavern Style Pizza?
Now that we’ve got all the ingredients, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen! Buckle up for a step-by-step journey through the art of pizza making.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Sauce
Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 8 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Next, incorporate a 6-ounce can of tomato paste and continue to stir for a minute. Pour in one 28-ounce can of whole peeled tomatoes. Use a spoon to crush them as they cook down. To this, mix in 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, a tablespoon of Marmite, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and your dried herbs. Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes until the flavors meld beautifully. Trust me, your kitchen will smell incredible!
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of high-gluten bread flour, 2 tablespoons plus 3/4 teaspoon of fine cornmeal, 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Make a well in the center and add 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast, followed by 3/4 cup plus 2 teaspoons of cold filtered water. Mix it until a dough forms. Knead the dough briefly on a floured surface until it’s smooth. Roll it into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise for at least an hour until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it in half. Roll one piece of dough into a rectangle that fits your baking dish. Grease the dish with olive oil before placing the dough in it. Ensure there’s some overhang for that crispy goodness!
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
Spread a generous 2/3 cup of prepared sauce over the dough. If you’re a meat lover, then now’s the time to add your 1/2 pound of raw Italian sausage, sprinkling it evenly across the surface. Add 2 ounces of freshly grated Parmesan followed by 1.5 cups of low-moisture mozzarella. Finish it with 3/4 cup of chopped giardiniera and a sprinkle of black olives if you desire.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Bake the pizza for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Keep an eye on it, and consider rotating it midway for even baking.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once removed from the oven, allow your masterpiece to cool for a few minutes. Then slice it into squares, serve it warm, and watch your friends and family devour it.
Tips
To ensure the best outcome, consider these helpful hints:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality cheese and fresh vegetables. They make a genuine difference in flavor.
- Don’t Skimp on Herbs: Fresh herbs can take the dish to another level. Adding them boosts brightness.
- Let Your Dough Rest: Allowing the dough to rest after rolling makes it easier to handle.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to mix and match toppings. Consider mushrooms or bell peppers for variety.
- Bake on the Bottom Rack: For extra crispiness, bake your pizza on the bottom rack of the oven.

How to Store Leftovers?
If, and that’s a big “if,” you happen to have leftovers, store them properly. Allow the pizza to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Place slices in freezer bags with parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven for the best texture.
How Would I Recommend Serving Pizza Hut Chicago Tavern Style Pizza?
When I think about serving this pizza, there are a few standout suggestions that elevate your dining experience.
- With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped basil or oregano before serving. It adds a pop of freshness and color.
- Chili Flakes for a Kick: If you enjoy spicy food, a sprinkle of chili flakes on top adds heat and enhances flavors.
- Accompanied by Wine: A glass of Chianti or Merlot pairs excellently, cutting through the rich cheese and sausage while complementing the tomato sauce.
- Casual Pizza Night: Make it a family event—serve the pizza alongside fun activities such as board games or movie nights. Everyone loves pizza!
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?
In the world of cooking, substitution is key. If you find yourself short on an ingredient, don’t stress. Consider these alternatives:
- Tomato Paste: Crushed tomatoes can be used instead; just cook them down for a thicker sauce.
- Fresh Garlic: Garlic powder can stand in, but use less to avoid overwhelming the dish. Generally, 1 clove equals about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Italian Sausage: If unavailable, ground turkey or chicken can provide a lighter option while retaining the flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano makes an excellent substitute, offering a sharper taste.

Pizza Hut Chicago Tavern Style Pizza Recipe
Equipment
- oven
Ingredients
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 8 cloves garlic minced
- 1 6-ounce can tomato paste
- 1 28-ounce can whole peeled tomatoes (such as Bianco DiNapoli)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce such as Three Crabs
- 1 tablespoon Marmite
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar plus more to adjust acidity, if necessary
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt plus more to taste
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper for a mild heat
Dough (makes 2 (295-gram) dough balls)
- 3 cups about 12 3/4 ounces high-gluten bread flour (such as Glicks)
- 2 tablespoons plus 3/4 teaspoon fine cornmeal about 7/8 ounce
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast
- 3/4 cup plus 2 teaspoons cold filtered water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil plus extra for greasing the dough
Toppings per pizza
- 2/3 cup about 5 1/2 ounces prepared sauce
- 1/2 pound raw mild Italian sausage about 2 links, casings removed
- 2 ounces freshly grated Parmesan cheese about 1/2 cup
- 1 1/2 cups full-fat low-moisture mozzarella (such as Galbani), shredded (about 6 ounces)
- 3/4 cup chopped Chicago-style giardiniera about 4 ounces drained
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives optional, for an added depth of flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Sauce
- Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 8 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Next, incorporate a 6-ounce can of tomato paste and continue to stir for a minute. Pour in one 28-ounce can of whole peeled tomatoes. Use a spoon to crush them as they cook down. To this, mix in 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, a tablespoon of Marmite, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and your dried herbs. Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes until the flavors meld beautifully. Trust me, your kitchen will smell incredible!
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of high-gluten bread flour, 2 tablespoons plus 3/4 teaspoon of fine cornmeal, 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Make a well in the center and add 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast, followed by 3/4 cup plus 2 teaspoons of cold filtered water. Mix it until a dough forms. Knead the dough briefly on a floured surface until it’s smooth. Roll it into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise for at least an hour until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it in half. Roll one piece of dough into a rectangle that fits your baking dish. Grease the dish with olive oil before placing the dough in it. Ensure there’s some overhang for that crispy goodness!
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
- Spread a generous 2/3 cup of prepared sauce over the dough. If you’re a meat lover, then now’s the time to add your 1/2 pound of raw Italian sausage, sprinkling it evenly across the surface. Add 2 ounces of freshly grated Parmesan followed by 1.5 cups of low-moisture mozzarella. Finish it with 3/4 cup of chopped giardiniera and a sprinkle of black olives if you desire.
Step 5: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Bake the pizza for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Keep an eye on it, and consider rotating it midway for even baking.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Once removed from the oven, allow your masterpiece to cool for a few minutes. Then slice it into squares, serve it warm, and watch your friends and family devour it.
Notes
- Use Quality Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality cheese and fresh vegetables. They make a genuine difference in flavor.
- Don’t Skimp on Herbs: Fresh herbs can take the dish to another level. Adding them boosts brightness.
- Let Your Dough Rest: Allowing the dough to rest after rolling makes it easier to handle.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to mix and match toppings. Consider mushrooms or bell peppers for variety.
- Bake on the Bottom Rack: For extra crispiness, bake your pizza on the bottom rack of the oven.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free pizza dough and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
How do I know when the pizza is done?
Look for a golden crust and bubbling cheese. The internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C) for safe consumption.
What if I don’t have a baking dish?
You can use a cast-iron skillet or even a baking sheet. Just be mindful of adjusting cooking times accordingly.
Can I add other veggies?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
How can I make it more kid-friendly?
Use milder toppings and experiment with fun shapes. Engaging kids to help with assembly can encourage them to enjoy it!
What do I do if the crust is too tough?
It’s likely over-kneaded or baked too long. Try letting it rise longer before baking next time!
Conclusion
Incorporating these insights and my tried-and-true methods, you’re well on your way to mastering the art of Pizza Hut’s Chicago Tavern Style Pizza. Cooking is a journey; allow yourself the flexibility to explore options while enjoying the delicious end result.
Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the pizza-making process bring your household together. Whether it’s a Friday night or a special occasion, this pizza is the perfect centerpiece. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to dig in!
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Hi! I'm Mary Lee. I love helping people eat yummy and healthy food. I live in Oregon. Cooking is my happy place. Let's make tasty dishes together!