Pizza is one of the most popular foods in the world. It is simple, delicious, and versatile. The most important part of a pizza is the cheese. Cheese gives pizza its creamy texture, rich flavor, and beautiful melt. But not all cheeses are good for pizza. Some cheeses melt better than others. Some have strong flavors, while others are mild.
In this article, we will explore the best cheeses for pizza. We will discuss how different cheeses affect the taste and texture of pizza. We will also look at how to mix cheeses to create the perfect balance. Whether you are making a classic Margherita pizza or trying something new, choosing the right cheese is important.
Best Cheeses for Pizza
Mozzarella
Mozzarella is the most popular cheese for pizza. It melts beautifully, creating the perfect stretch. It has a mild flavor that goes well with any toppings.
Fresh mozzarella: This is soft, creamy, and full of moisture. It is often sold in a ball shape and stored in water. It is best for Neapolitan-style pizzas. Fresh mozzarella should be sliced and drained before use.
Low-moisture mozzarella: This is drier and has a stronger flavor. It is often shredded and melts evenly. It is best for New York-style and American-style pizzas.
If you want a traditional pizza, mozzarella is the best choice. It gives pizza a smooth texture and a delicious taste.
Cheddar
Cheddar cheese is sharp and flavorful. It does not melt as smoothly as mozzarella, but it adds a rich taste to pizza. It is best when mixed with other cheeses.
Aged cheddar has a stronger flavor, while mild cheddar is smoother. Yellow and white cheddar taste the same, but yellow cheddar gives pizza a richer color.
Cheddar is great for barbecue chicken pizzas or cheeseburger-style pizzas. It also works well with strong toppings like bacon and caramelized onions.
Parmesan
Parmesan cheese is a hard, aged cheese. It has a salty and nutty flavor. It does not melt like mozzarella, but it adds a great taste to pizza.
Parmesan is best when sprinkled on top after baking. It enhances the flavor of the pizza without making it greasy. It is often used on Margherita and white pizzas.
If you want a stronger cheese taste, parmesan is a great choice.
Provolone
Provolone is a semi-soft cheese with a smooth texture. It melts well and has a slightly tangy taste. It is often used in combination with mozzarella.
Mild provolone: Creamy and smooth, great for a balanced flavor.
Aged provolone: Sharper and more intense, adding a bold taste to pizza.
Provolone is perfect for Italian-style pizzas and pairs well with meats like pepperoni and sausage.
Gouda
Gouda is a Dutch cheese known for its creamy and slightly sweet flavor. It melts well and gives pizza a smooth texture.
Smoked gouda is a popular choice for barbecue pizzas. It adds a smoky flavor that works well with chicken, pulled pork, or mushrooms.
If you want a cheese with a rich and creamy taste, gouda is a great option.
Ricotta
Ricotta is a soft, creamy cheese made from whey. It does not melt like mozzarella but adds a rich texture to pizza.
Ricotta is best for white pizzas, where it is spread over the crust in dollops. It pairs well with garlic, spinach, and basil. It also works well with sweet toppings like honey and figs.
If you want a creamy and light cheese, ricotta is a great choice.
Fontina
Fontina is a semi-soft cheese with a mild, nutty flavor. It melts well and creates a creamy texture.
Fontina is great for gourmet pizzas. It pairs well with mushrooms, prosciutto, and truffle oil.
If you want a cheese with a smooth and rich taste, fontina is a good option.
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese is strong and tangy. It does not melt smoothly, but it adds a bold flavor to pizza.
Blue cheese is best used in small amounts. It pairs well with pears, honey, and caramelized onions. It also works well on buffalo chicken pizzas.
If you like strong and unique flavors, blue cheese is a great choice.
Burrata
Burrata is similar to mozzarella but even creamier. It has a soft center filled with fresh cream. It is best added to pizza after baking.
Burrata gives pizza a luxurious texture. It pairs well with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil.
If you want a rich and indulgent cheese, burrata is a perfect choice.
Pecorino Romano
Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty cheese made from sheep’s milk. It has a bold and sharp flavor.
Like parmesan, it is best sprinkled on top of pizza after baking. It adds depth to the flavor and pairs well with garlic and spicy toppings.
If you want a strong and salty cheese, pecorino romano is a great option.
How to Mix Cheeses for the Best Pizza
Using one cheese is great, but mixing cheeses can make pizza even better. Here are some popular cheese combinations:
Mozzarella + Provolone: A classic mix for a creamy and slightly tangy taste.
Mozzarella + Cheddar: Adds sharpness and a rich color.
Mozzarella + Parmesan: Enhances flavor with a nutty and salty taste.
Mozzarella + Gouda + Cheddar: Perfect for barbecue-style pizzas.
Ricotta + Mozzarella + Parmesan: Great for white pizzas.
Blue Cheese + Mozzarella: A bold and creamy combination.
The key to mixing cheeses is balance. Soft cheeses like mozzarella provide melt, while aged cheeses like parmesan add flavor.
Final Tips for Choosing Pizza Cheese
Consider meltability – Mozzarella and provolone melt the best.
Balance flavors – Mix mild cheeses with strong cheeses for the best taste.
Match cheese with toppings – Smoky cheeses like gouda pair well with barbecue flavors, while ricotta works best with vegetables.
Use fresh cheese when possible – Fresh cheese has better flavor and texture.
Don’t overdo it – Too much cheese can make pizza greasy and heavy.
Conclusion
The best cheese for pizza depends on the style of pizza you are making. Mozzarella is the top choice because of its perfect melt and mild flavor. But mixing cheeses can add depth and variety to your pizza. Whether you want a classic Margherita or a bold blue cheese pizza, choosing the right cheese is key.
Try experimenting with different cheeses to find your perfect combination. Enjoy your pizza-making journey!
Related topic:
- The Ultimate Guide to Pizza Cheese: Types, Uses, and Tips
- How Much Oil in Pizza Dough?
- What Type of Cheese Do You Use on Pizza?
