What kind of cheese to put on pizza – this age-old question that has baffled eaters, cooks and chefs alike. Pizza is one of the most beloved Italian dishes in the world, with people around the world creating their own unique versions of it. And when it comes to pizza, one crucial ingredient often takes center stage: cheese! From classic mozzarella slices to exotic blends sprinkled atop pizzas around the globe, selecting the right cheese can take your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
So if you’re wondering which cheeses will really tantalize your taste buds, look no further than this comprehensive guide all about what kinds of cheese are best suited for pizzas!
About Cheese
When it comes to selecting cheese for your pizza, knowledge is power. To get started, let’s cover the basics of cheese:
Cheese is a product of milk that has been transformed with bacteria and/or enzymes in order to create different textures and flavors. Depending on how long the cheese has been aged (and sometimes what type of culture was used), the cheese will be either soft, semi-soft, semi-hard or hard. The flavor of the cheese can range from mild to sharp and is determined by the milk used (cow, sheep, or goat) and the type of culture used.
Types of Cheese
When choosing a cheese for your pizza, you’ll want to take into account several factors. First off, decide whether you’d like an all-purpose cheese that pairs well with any toppings, or something more specific that pairs better with certain toppings.
The most popular cheese used on pizza is mozzarella, which is a mild, soft cheese that melts nicely and has a mild flavor. Other popular options include cheddar, parmesan, feta, gouda and ricotta – all of which are semi-soft or hard cheeses with varying levels of sharpness or creaminess.
For a truly unique pizza, try mixing multiple types of cheese together to create a one-of-a-kind flavor experience. Some popular combinations include mozzarella and parmesan, feta and cheddar, gouda and ricotta, or all three if you’re feeling adventurous!
What Kinda Cheese Goes on Pizza?
So now that you know more about cheese and the types of cheeses available, it’s time to select the perfect one for your pizza. There are several factors to consider when choosing a cheese, such as its reliability, flavor intensity, and texture.
Mozzarella
Popular among traditional Italian pizzas, mozzarella is a semi-soft cheese with a mild, milky taste. This cheese melts easily and can be used on its own or in combination with other cheeses.
Mozzarella comes in several different varieties such as low-moisture and fresh, but it’s most commonly found on pizzas in its shredded form.
Ricotta? Ricotta is a great option if you want something that’s creamy and mild. It adds a nice texture to the pizza without overpowering it.
Feta
Feta is a classic choice for Greek-style pizzas. This cheese has a sharp, salty flavor that pairs well with vegetables and other Mediterranean toppings.
Feta is a salty, crumbly cheese that adds a unique flavor to your pizza. It can be used as a topping or sprinkled over the top after baking for an extra pop of flavor.
Parmesan
Parmesan is a great way to add an extra layer of flavor to your pizza without overwhelming the other ingredients.
It is a hard Italian cheese with a sharp and salty flavor and is best shaved or grated onto pizzas for added flavor. It is often grated over pizzas as a garnish, and it also adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
Cheddar
Cheddar is a great choice for those who are looking for something with more punch than mozzarella. Cheddar is a hard cheese that has a sharp and slightly tangy flavor – perfect for adding some extra zing to your pizza. It works well with bolder toppings like meat and chili peppers.
Cheddar It can also add a golden brown crust when it’s melted over the top of the pizza.
This cheese can be used in its shredded form or as slices, whichever you prefer.
Gouda
Gouda is made from cow’s milk and has a mild flavor that pairs perfectly with pizza topping like salami, pepperoni, mushrooms, and onions. It melts well and adds an extra layer of flavor to your pizza without overpowering it.
This cheese can be used on its own or in combination with other cheeses for an extra flavorful experience. Meaning it is an ideal choice for people who want something more unique than the traditional cheese options. It has a slightly sweet taste and works well with both savory and sweet toppings.
Provolone
Provolone is a semi-hard Italian cheese that has a sharp and smoky taste. It adds an intense flavor to your pizza and pairs well with toppings like sausage, beef, olives, and artichokes. It can also be melted over the top of the pizza for added texture and flavor.
Provolone is best used as slices or grated over the top for a bit of texture.
Goat Cheese
Goat cheese adds a unique flavor to your pizza and can help balance out the stronger flavors of other toppings. It has a creamy texture and tangy taste that pairs well with sweet or savory ingredients. It can also be used as an alternative to mozzarella if you’re looking for something different.
This cheese can be used as slices or crumbled over the top of your pizza for an extra layer of flavor.
Ricotta Salata
Ricotta Salata is a semi-hard cheese that has a salty and slightly tangy flavor. It melts well, making it ideal for pizzas with bolder toppings like mushrooms, peppers, and onions.
It can also be used as slices or grated over the top of your pizza for an extra layer of flavor. Its creamy texture and mild flavor make it a great choice for those who want something different than the traditional cheese options.
These are just some of the various types of cheeses that can be used on pizza. Cheese is an important part of the overall flavor and texture of the dish, so take some time to explore different types and see which one you like best.
Vegan Cheese Options
Vegan cheese can also be used to top pizzas. If you’re looking for an animal-free option, try a vegan mozzarella made from coconut or almond milk. It melts similarly to dairy-based cheeses and adds a delicious flavor to your pie. Other vegan cheese options include nutritional yeast, tofu, and cashew cheese.
Just like regular cheeses, vegan options can be used in combination with other toppings or on their own for a unique and delicious experience.
Toppings and Cheese
When creating your pizza, consider the toppings you’ll be using. Many kinds of cheese have a strong flavor that can overpower other ingredients on the pizza, so you may want to go for a milder cheese if you plan to top your pie with lots of vegetables or meats.
Alternatively, sharper cheeses can add a great depth of flavor to pizzas with simple ingredients like tomatoes or mushrooms.
Finally, don’t forget about the sauce! Some cheeses are better suited for certain types of sauces – for instance, mozzarella pairs nicely with tomato-based sauces and ricotta work best with creamy sauces.
Variations in Regions
Different regions of the world have various kinds of cheese they use on pizza. For example, in Italy, mozzarella is a popular choice while in Greece feta cheese is often used. In India, paneer is often found on top of pizzas, and in Spain, manchego cheese can be used as an alternative to mozzarella.
Keep in mind that the type of cheese you use can really influence the flavor and texture of your pizza – so explore some different options and find the one that works best for you!
Make Your Own Cheese
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try making your own cheese? It’s easier than you might think and can add a unique element to your pizza. All you need is some milk, vinegar, and salt! Just heat up the milk until it boils and then add in the vinegar. As soon as the mixture starts to separate, drain it in a cheesecloth and add salt. Once drained, you’ll have your own homemade cheese that you can use on your pizza!
Cheese is an essential part of any pizza and can really make or break the flavor. With so many different types available, take some time to explore all the options and find the perfect cheese for your next pie.
How to choose the right cheese for your pizza
When it comes to selecting the right cheese for your pizza, consider the flavors and textures you’re looking for. If you want a strong flavor, choose something like ricotta salata or feta. For a milder flavor, try mozzarella or a vegan option like almond milk mozzarella.
Think about what other toppings you’ll be using as well. Some cheeses can overpower the other ingredients, so if you plan to use lots of vegetables or meats, opt for a milder cheese.
Finally, consider how the cheese will melt and how it will work with your sauce. Mozzarella pairs nicely with tomato-based sauces while ricotta is best with creamy sauces.
Conclusion
There are many types of cheese that can be used for pizza. Each type of cheese has its own unique flavor and texture that can change the overall taste of the pizza.
When choosing a cheese for your pizza, it is important to consider what other toppings you will be using and how they will interact with the cheese.
You should also think about what kind of crust you want and how the different cheeses will melt on it. With so many choices, it can be hard to decide what kinda cheese goes on pizza for the next time. Try out a few different kinds and see what you like best!
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FAQs
What is the best melting cheese for pizza?
Mozzarella is the most popular melting cheese for pizza as it has a light, mild flavor and creates a creamy texture when melted.
What is the best vegan cheese for pizza?
Almond milk mozzarella is a great vegan cheese option that melts well and has a mild flavor. It can be used in place of traditional mozzarella on pizzas.
What is the best cheese for a white pizza?
Ricotta salata or feta are both great options for white pizzas as they give the dish a nice sharp flavor. In addition, ricotta adds creaminess to the pizza while feta adds a salty kick.
Which type of cheese should I use for a deep dish pizza?
For a deep dish pizza, you want to use a cheese that will hold up to the long baking time. Cheddar, mozzarella, and provolone are all good choices as they melt well and have strong flavors that can stand up to the other ingredients.
Which type of cheese is best for a crispy pizza crust?
For a crispy crust, you want to choose a cheese that will not get too soft when baked. Parmesan and Romano are both good options as they have a sharp flavor and hold their shape when melted.
What kind of cheese is used in Italian pizza?
Parmesan can also be used. Different regions may have their own preferred cheeses – for instance, feta is commonly used in Greek pizzas.
What is the best way to store leftover pizza with cheese?
If you have leftover pizza with cheese, the best way to store it is in an airtight container. Cheese can spoil quickly if left out, so make sure you store your pizza in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to eat it.
The last step for making a great pizza is choosing the right cheese! With so many varieties available, there’s something for everyone. Take the time to explore all the options and find the perfect cheese for your next pie! With a little bit of experimenting, you’ll soon have a cheese combination that you love.
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John Battaini
Hi, my name is John Battaini and I am the founder of Wonder Pizza USA. We are the world’s foremost authority on pizza vending machines, with many years of experience and knowledge in the industry. In addition, we are also a collection of pizza enthusiasts with a lot of knowledge about PIZZA.