Cheese-Stuffed Crusts: What's Inside And How It's Made

There are many different types of cheese that can be used for a stuffed crust pizza. Mozzarella is the most popular choice, with some recipes calling for the use of string cheese, which is easier to shape and stuff into the crust. Other recipes suggest using a combination of cheeses, such as mozzarella, fontina, and cheddar, for a more complex flavour.

Mozzarella is the most popular cheese for stuffed crusts

Mozzarella is a key component of the original stuffed crust pizza, which was introduced by Pizza Hut in 1995. Their recipe includes warm, melty cheese stuffed into the crust of their traditional pizza dough, topped with classic marinara and 100% real cheese made from whole milk mozzarella.

When making a homemade stuffed crust pizza, you can use store-bought or homemade pizza dough. Form the dough into a round shape, then use your fingertips to press about 1" from the edges. This creates a lip that can be stuffed with cheese. String cheese is a popular choice for its convenience, as it is already the perfect shape and size. Simply unwrap and place the sticks around the edge of the pizza dough, then fold the edges of the dough over the cheese, pinching it to seal. You can also use shredded mozzarella or cut fresh mozzarella into thin strips.

To ensure a leak-proof crust, it is important to tightly seal the edges of the dough around the cheese. Some people even freeze the cheese before wrapping it, to help it hold its shape. After adding your sauce and toppings, bake the pizza at around 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Mozzarella is the perfect cheese for stuffed crusts because of its melting properties and its mild flavour, which pairs well with a variety of toppings. Its stringy texture also adds a fun, interactive element to the dining experience.

String cheese is the easiest option for a stuffed crust

Mozzarella is the most common type of cheese used for stuffed crusts. However, string cheese, which is usually just low-moisture mozzarella, is the easiest option for a stuffed crust.

String cheese is the perfect shape, width, and texture for creating those melty cheese pockets inside the pizza crust. It is also the ideal size, as it can be cut in half lengthwise and still be the right diameter for a stuffed crust.

Some recipes suggest using seven pieces of string cheese, while others recommend eight to ten pieces, depending on the size of the pizza. If you want an extra cheesy crust, you can even use full sticks without cutting them in half.

To make the stuffed crust, place the string cheese around the edges of the crust, leaving a small gap between the cheese and the edge of the dough. Then, fold the edges of the dough over the string cheese, pressing down to seal it shut. Make sure there are no gaps, as the cheese will melt out if it's not properly sealed.

Using string cheese is a simple hack that ensures you get those delicious, melty cheese pockets in your stuffed crust pizza.

You can use other types of cheese, but they may become greasy

While mozzarella is the most popular choice for stuffed crust pizza, you can use other types of cheese. However, it is important to note that not all cheeses will yield the same results. For instance, if you use reduced-fat or fat-free cheese, it may not melt well, and other types of cheese, such as cheddar, may become greasy.

Mozzarella is a popular choice for stuffed crust pizza because it melts well and has a mild flavour that pairs well with other toppings. It is also widely available in string cheese form, which is convenient for creating the stuffed crust. However, if you want to experiment with different cheeses, you can certainly do so. Just be aware that the results may vary.

When choosing an alternative cheese for your stuffed crust pizza, consider the melting point and flavour of the cheese. You want a cheese that will melt easily and not become greasy during the baking process. Some options that you could try include Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of cheeses. Just be sure to avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melting process.

Additionally, when using alternative cheeses, you may need to adjust the amount of cheese you use. For example, if you are using a softer cheese, you may need to use a little more to ensure that the crust is adequately stuffed. On the other hand, if you are using a strongly flavoured cheese, you may want to use less to avoid overpowering the other flavours in your pizza.

Finally, keep in mind that the success of your stuffed crust pizza will also depend on the technique you use to create it. Be sure to seal the edges of the dough tightly around the cheese to prevent any leakage during baking. You can also try freezing the cheese before wrapping it in the dough to help it hold its shape better.

Seal the dough well to prevent cheese from leaking out

To prevent cheese from leaking out of your stuffed crust pizza, it is important to seal the dough well. Here are some tips to achieve that:

Firstly, when adding the cheese, ensure that you tuck it into the crust tightly. Fold the edges of the dough over the cheese, pressing down firmly to seal it shut. Any gaps will result in the cheese melting out, so it is crucial to work meticulously to ensure the edges are folded over and snugly closed.

Additionally, you can try wetting the edges of the dough with water before pinching them together. The water acts as a glue, helping to create a stronger seal. Another suggestion is to use a fork to pinch the edges closed, creating a tighter seal.

Furthermore, it is recommended to create a vent hole or two in the top of the pizza dough to release steam. This can be done by poking a few small slits or holes in the dough with a knife or fork. Without these vents, steam pressure can build up inside the crust, causing it to burst open and allowing cheese to escape.

Finally, consider using string cheese or larger chunks of cheese instead of shredded cheese. String cheese is the perfect shape and size for stuffed crusts, and larger chunks may melt more slowly, reducing the risk of leakage.

By following these tips and paying close attention to sealing the dough, you can minimize the chances of cheese leaking out of your stuffed crust pizza.

You can add pepperoni or other meats to your stuffed crust

Adding pepperoni or other meats to your stuffed crust pizza is a great way to elevate your pizza-making skills and impress your friends and family. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get started:

Choosing the Right Meat

The most popular meat to add to a stuffed crust pizza is pepperoni, as its spicy flavour pairs well with the cheese and other toppings. However, you can also experiment with other meats such as Italian sausage, ground beef, bacon, or even diced chicken. If you want to add a unique twist, try using a combination of different meats to create a meat lover's stuffed crust pizza.

Preparing the Meat

To prepare the meat for your stuffed crust, start by slicing the pepperoni or other meats into thin pieces. You can also chop the meat into small cubes or mince it, depending on the texture you prefer. If you're using a meat with a higher fat content, like sausage or bacon, you might want to cook it partially before adding it to the pizza to reduce the amount of grease on your pizza.

Stuffing the Crust

When you're ready to assemble your pizza, start by placing your desired amount of meat onto the edge of the crust, creating a ring of meat around the pizza. Then, follow the same steps as you would for a regular stuffed crust pizza by adding your cheese and folding the dough over the meat and cheese, pressing down to seal it shut. Make sure you tuck the edges tightly to prevent the cheese and meat from melting out.

Baking the Pizza

Follow the baking instructions for your specific recipe, but keep in mind that the addition of meat to your stuffed crust may require a slightly longer baking time to ensure the meat is cooked through. Always check that the meat is cooked to the appropriate internal temperature before serving.

Customising Your Pizza

In addition to adding meat to your stuffed crust, you can customise your pizza with a variety of toppings. The most popular toppings include mushrooms, onions, green peppers, and black olives. You can also get creative with your sauce choices, such as a traditional tomato sauce, a spicy marinara, or a creamy alfredo sauce. Don't be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination of meats, cheeses, and toppings!

Frequently asked questions