Hey pizza lovers! Are you ready to dive into the world of Detroit-style pizza? If you're craving that crispy, cheesy, and utterly delicious square pizza, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we're going to explore everything you need to know about Detroit style pizza pans, helping you choose the perfect one to create authentic, mouthwatering pizzas right in your own kitchen. So, let's get started and turn you into a Detroit-style pizza pro!

Why You Need a Special Pan for Detroit Style Pizza

First off, let's talk about why you can't just use any old pan for Detroit-style pizza. The pan is absolutely crucial to achieving that signature crust and overall texture. Unlike round pizzas, Detroit-style pizza is baked in rectangular pans, typically made of steel. These pans have a few key features that make all the difference.

The Shape Matters: The rectangular shape isn't just for looks; it allows for those coveted corner pieces with extra crispy edges. These corners are a fan favorite and a hallmark of Detroit-style pizza.

Material is Key: Traditional Detroit-style pizza pans are made from steel, which conducts heat evenly and efficiently. This ensures that the bottom of the pizza gets nice and crispy while the inside remains soft and airy. Some pans also have a non-stick coating, but many purists prefer the classic steel for the best results.

Depth for Deliciousness: These pans are deeper than your average pizza pan, allowing for a thick, airy dough and plenty of room for toppings and cheese. The depth is what creates that signature Detroit-style crust with its crispy edges and soft interior.

Using the right pan isn't just about following a recipe; it's about capturing the essence of Detroit-style pizza. Trust me, guys, the right pan will make a world of difference in your pizza-making adventures.

Top Detroit Style Pizza Pans on the Market

Alright, let's get into the fun part: picking out the perfect pan! Here are some of the top Detroit style pizza pans you can find on the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. We'll break down what makes them great and help you decide which one is best for your needs.

LloydPans Kitchenware Detroit Style Pizza Pan

LloydPans is a household name in the Detroit-style pizza world, and for good reason. Their pans are known for their quality, durability, and performance. Here's what makes them stand out:

• Pre-Seasoned: These pans come pre-seasoned, which means you can start using them right away without any extra prep work. The seasoning helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
• Durable Construction: Made from heavy-gauge aluminum, LloydPans are built to last. They can withstand high temperatures and won't warp or bend over time.
• Even Heating: The aluminum construction ensures even heat distribution, so your pizza cooks evenly from edge to edge.
• Easy Release: The pre-seasoned surface makes it easy to release your pizza without tearing or sticking. A major plus for hassle-free pizza nights!

If you're serious about making authentic Detroit-style pizza, a LloydPans pan is a fantastic investment. It's a bit pricier than some other options, but the quality and performance are well worth it.

Detroit Style Pizza Company Pan

Of course, we have to talk about the Detroit Style Pizza Company Pan! This pan is designed specifically for creating authentic Detroit-style pizzas and has some great features:

• Authentic Design: Modeled after the original pans used in Detroit pizzerias, this pan is designed to replicate the exact shape and depth needed for a perfect Detroit-style pizza.
• Steel Construction: Made from high-quality steel, this pan offers excellent heat conduction and durability. It's built to withstand the high temperatures needed for that crispy crust.
• Perfect Size: The size is ideal for making a family-sized Detroit-style pizza, perfect for sharing (or not!).
• Easy to Clean: While it doesn't have a non-stick coating, the steel is relatively easy to clean with a bit of elbow grease. Proper seasoning can also help prevent sticking.

This pan is a great choice for anyone looking to recreate the authentic Detroit-style pizza experience at home. Its design and construction are top-notch, ensuring a delicious and authentic result every time.

USA Pan Bakeware Rectangular Cake Pan

Now, let's talk about a more versatile option: the USA Pan Bakeware Rectangular Cake Pan. While it's technically a cake pan, it works surprisingly well for Detroit-style pizza. Here's why:

• Non-Stick Coating: The non-stick coating makes it incredibly easy to release your pizza and clean up afterward. This is a huge benefit for those who want a hassle-free experience.
• Durable Construction: Made from heavy-gauge aluminized steel, this pan is built to last and can withstand high temperatures.
• Even Heating: The aluminized steel ensures even heat distribution, so your pizza cooks evenly.
• Versatile: While it's great for pizza, you can also use it for baking cakes, brownies, and other treats. Talk about getting your money's worth!

If you're looking for a pan that can do double duty, the USA Pan Bakeware Rectangular Cake Pan is an excellent choice. It's affordable, durable, and easy to use, making it a great addition to any kitchen.

What to Look For When Buying a Detroit Style Pizza Pan

Okay, so now that we've looked at some of the top pans on the market, let's talk about what to look for when you're shopping around. Here are some key factors to consider:

Material: As we mentioned earlier, the material of the pan is crucial. Steel and aluminum are the most popular choices for their excellent heat conduction and durability. Steel is more traditional, while aluminum is often lighter and more affordable.

Size: Consider the size of the pan based on how many people you'll be serving. A 10x14 inch pan is a good size for a family of four, while a smaller pan might be better for smaller households.

Depth: The depth of the pan is what creates that signature Detroit-style crust. Look for pans that are at least 2 inches deep to ensure you get that perfectly crispy edge and soft interior.

Coating: Non-stick coatings can make it easier to release your pizza and clean up, but they're not essential. If you opt for a non-stick pan, make sure it's high-quality and won't flake off over time. Many purists prefer the classic steel without non-stick, relying on proper seasoning instead.

Durability: Look for pans that are made from heavy-gauge materials and are built to last. You want a pan that can withstand high temperatures and won't warp or bend over time.

Price: Detroit-style pizza pans range in price from affordable to quite expensive. Consider your budget and choose a pan that offers the best value for your money. Remember, investing in a quality pan can pay off in the long run with better results and longer lifespan.

Tips for Using and Maintaining Your Detroit Style Pizza Pan

So, you've got your new Detroit-style pizza pan. Awesome! Now, let's talk about how to use it and keep it in tip-top shape.

Seasoning: If you have a steel pan without a non-stick coating, seasoning is essential. To season your pan, coat it with a thin layer of oil (such as vegetable or canola oil) and bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about an hour. Let it cool completely, and repeat this process a few times to build up a nice, non-stick surface.

Preheating: Always preheat your pan in the oven before adding your dough and toppings. This helps ensure that the bottom of the pizza gets nice and crispy.

Oiling: Even if you have a non-stick pan, it's a good idea to lightly oil it before adding your dough. This will help prevent sticking and make it easier to release your pizza.

Cleaning: After each use, clean your pan with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. Avoid using harsh chemicals or scouring pads, as these can damage the surface of the pan. If you have a steel pan, be sure to dry it thoroughly after washing to prevent rust.

Storage: Store your pan in a dry place to prevent rust or corrosion. If you have multiple pans, you can stack them together with a layer of parchment paper in between to protect the surfaces.

Recipes to Try with Your New Pan

Now that you're armed with the perfect pan and the knowledge to use it, let's talk about some delicious recipes to try. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Classic Detroit Style Pizza

This is the go-to recipe for anyone looking to recreate the authentic Detroit-style pizza experience. It features a thick, airy dough, a generous layer of Wisconsin brick cheese, and a tangy tomato sauce applied after baking. Trust me, it's a winner!

Pepperoni Detroit Style Pizza

Add a classic twist to your Detroit-style pizza with plenty of pepperoni. Layer the pepperoni under the cheese for a crispy, flavorful bite.

Veggie Detroit Style Pizza

Load up your Detroit-style pizza with your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives. This is a great way to create a healthy and delicious meal.

Spicy Detroit Style Pizza

Turn up the heat with some spicy ingredients, such as jalapeños, pepperoni, or a spicy tomato sauce. This is a great option for those who like a little kick.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, guys! Everything you need to know about Detroit style pizza pans. With the right pan and a little practice, you'll be churning out authentic, mouthwatering Detroit-style pizzas in no time. Remember to consider the material, size, depth, and coating when choosing a pan, and don't forget to season and maintain your pan properly. Now get out there and start baking some amazing pizzas! Happy cooking!