Donatos' Serious Cheese Pizza: A Tasty Review

Did you know that Donatos' Serious Cheese Pizza is a beloved classic among pizza enthusiasts? This iconic dish, with its generous layers of melted mozzarella and a crispy, thin crust, has become a staple in many households. With a rich history dating back to the 1960s, Donatos' has perfected the art of crafting a simple yet delicious pizza that has stood the test of time. Join us as we explore the story behind this iconic pizza and why it continues to be a favorite for generations.

Ingredients: Fresh dough, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and toppings

To create a delicious Donatos-style Serious Cheese Pizza, you'll need to start with the right ingredients and ensure they are of the highest quality. Here's a detailed breakdown of the essential components:

Fresh Dough: The foundation of any great pizza lies in its dough. Use a high-quality, fresh dough that is soft and pliable. You can either make your own dough or purchase it from a local bakery. Look for a dough that is made with simple ingredients like flour, water, yeast, and salt. The key is to ensure it is fresh and has not been sitting for too long, as this can affect the texture and taste.

Tomato Sauce: A flavorful tomato sauce is the next crucial element. You can either make your own sauce or opt for a high-quality store-bought variety. Fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs are ideal for making your sauce. If you choose a store-bought option, select a brand known for its rich, tangy flavor. The sauce should be slightly thickened to provide a good base for the toppings.

Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the show is the cheese! Mozzarella is the classic choice for a serious cheese pizza. Use fresh mozzarella, preferably in its natural state, as it melts beautifully and provides a creamy texture. If you can't find fresh mozzarella, go for a high-quality, aged variety that will still offer a good melt.

Toppings: Now, let's explore the toppings that will make your pizza unique and delicious.

• Pepperoni: A classic choice, pepperoni adds a spicy kick to the pizza. Look for thin, crispy slices of pepperoni for a satisfying crunch.
• Onions and Peppers: These vegetables add a touch of sweetness and a crisp texture. You can use fresh or frozen, but ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture on the pizza.
• Sausage: For a heartier option, add some cooked sausage links. You can use Italian sausage or any variety of your preference.
• Olives: Black olives or any other variety of your choice can be added for a Mediterranean twist.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be sprinkled on top for an aromatic touch.

Remember, the key to a successful pizza is using fresh, high-quality ingredients and assembling the pizza just before baking to ensure the best possible flavor and texture.

History: Created by Donato Perugino in 1962

The story of Donatos Pizza and its iconic "Serious" cheese pizza begins with a man named Donato Perugino, who had a vision to bring delicious, high-quality pizza to the masses. In 1962, Perugino opened the first Donatos Pizza restaurant in Columbus, Ohio, with a focus on creating a unique and superior pizza experience. His goal was to elevate the pizza game by using only the finest ingredients and a secret family recipe for the dough.

Perugino's passion for pizza was evident in every aspect of his restaurant. He sourced fresh, high-quality ingredients, including real mozzarella cheese and San Marzano tomatoes, which were imported from Italy. The dough was made in-house, following a traditional recipe that had been passed down through generations of his family. This attention to detail and commitment to quality set Donatos Pizza apart from its competitors.

The "Serious" cheese pizza, as it came to be known, quickly became a customer favorite. It featured a generous amount of melted cheese, a crispy yet chewy crust, and a slightly charred, flavorful base. The combination of these elements created a pizza that was not only delicious but also satisfying and memorable. Word of Donatos' exceptional pizza spread quickly, and the restaurant gained a loyal following.

Donato Perugino's dedication to his craft and his belief in the power of good food led to the expansion of Donatos Pizza. Over the years, the company grew, and its unique pizza style became a beloved staple in the Midwest and beyond. The "Serious" cheese pizza remains a signature item on the menu, a testament to the original vision of Donato Perugino and a reminder of the impact one man's passion can have on a beloved food.

Toppings: Popular choices include pepperoni, mushrooms, and onions

When it comes to customizing your pizza, toppings are a crucial element that can elevate your Donatos Serious Cheese Pizza experience. Here are some popular choices to consider:

Pepperoni is a classic and beloved topping that adds a spicy kick to your pizza. It's a favorite for many pizza enthusiasts and can be a great way to satisfy those who enjoy a bit of heat. Pepperoni slices can be arranged in various patterns, from a simple strip down the center to a more intricate, meaty design. This topping is a versatile choice, often paired with other ingredients like mushrooms or onions to create a well-rounded flavor profile.

Mushrooms are another excellent addition to your pizza, offering a savory and earthy flavor. Button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms are commonly used, providing a satisfying texture and a subtle taste that complements the cheese. You can go for a generous amount of mushrooms, creating a meaty-like experience, or use them sparingly for a more delicate touch.

Onions are a popular choice for pizza toppings, adding a sweet and slightly tangy flavor. Red onions are often preferred for their crisp texture and mild onion taste, while yellow onions provide a more intense flavor. When added to the pizza, onions create a unique contrast to the cheese and can be especially delicious when caramelized, offering a slightly sticky and sweet finish.

These toppings are just the beginning, as Donatos offers a wide range of options to suit various tastes. You can also experiment with different combinations, such as adding bell peppers, olives, or even pineapple for a tropical twist. The key is to find a balance between flavors and textures to create a pizza that truly satisfies your cravings.

Nutrition: High in fat and calories, with moderate protein

The Donatos Serious Cheese Pizza is a delicious and indulgent treat, but it's important to understand its nutritional profile to make informed choices about your diet. This pizza is a classic comfort food, known for its generous toppings and rich, melted cheese. Here's a breakdown of its nutritional content, specifically focusing on its fat, calorie, and protein content.

Fat Content: This pizza is a significant source of dietary fat. The dough, cheese, and toppings contribute to a high-fat profile. A medium-sized pizza (12 inches) can contain around 15-20 grams of fat, primarily from saturated and trans fats. Saturated fats, found in butter and cheese, can raise cholesterol levels, while trans fats, often used in processed foods, are linked to various health issues. It's worth noting that while fat is an essential part of a balanced diet, excessive consumption can lead to weight gain and other health complications.

Calories: Donatos Serious Cheese Pizza is a calorie-dense food. A single serving (one-quarter of the pizza) can provide approximately 350-400 calories. The calorie count can vary depending on the size of the pizza and the specific toppings chosen. For context, the recommended daily calorie intake for adults is around 2000-2500 calories, but this varies based on age, gender, and activity level. Consuming this pizza in moderation is key to maintaining a healthy calorie balance.

Protein Content: While not the primary focus of this pizza, it does offer a moderate amount of protein. The cheese, especially if it's a combination of mozzarella and cheddar, contributes to the protein content. A medium-sized pizza can provide around 10-15 grams of protein. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair, and it also helps promote feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for weight management. However, it's important to remember that protein sources should be diverse to ensure you get all the essential amino acids.

When enjoying this pizza, consider the following tips: Opt for a thin crust to reduce overall fat and calorie intake. Choose a smaller size if you're watching your weight. Load up on vegetables as toppings to add more fiber and nutrients. Finally, remember that moderation is key. While this pizza can be a tasty treat, it's best to save it for special occasions and balance it out with healthier food choices throughout the day.

Variations: Includes thin crust, deep dish, and stuffed versions

The Serious Cheese Pizza from Donatos Pizza is a classic, but there are numerous variations to suit different tastes and preferences. Here's a breakdown of some popular options:

Thin Crust: This style is a lighter, more crispy alternative to the traditional deep-dish. It's perfect for those who want a quick bite or a pizza that's easy to handle. The thin crust allows the toppings to shine, and the cheese stretches further, creating a more delicate and airy texture. You can still load up on toppings, but the overall experience is less heavy.

Deep Dish: As the name suggests, this variation is all about depth. The deep dish pizza is a hearty option, almost like a pizza pie. It's built with a thick, buttery crust that forms a well-like shape, which is then filled with generous amounts of cheese and toppings. This style is known for its ability to hold a lot of toppings, making it a favorite for those who love a loaded pizza. The crust is so thick that it almost acts as a second layer, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Stuffed Crust: This unique twist takes the pizza to a whole new level. The stuffed crust is essentially a pizza dough ball that's been stuffed with melted cheese and sometimes other toppings. When baked, the crust rises, creating a delicious, cheesy pocket of goodness. It's a fun and indulgent option, perfect for those who want a burst of flavor with every bite. You can choose from various fillings, such as pepperoni, sausage, or even a blend of cheeses, making it a customizable and exciting pizza experience.

These variations showcase the versatility of the Serious Cheese Pizza, offering something for everyone. Whether you prefer a crispy thin crust, a hearty deep dish, or an indulgent stuffed creation, Donatos has you covered. Each style brings a unique texture and flavor profile, ensuring that every pizza lover can find their perfect match.

Frequently asked questions