The Best Cheeses To Top Your Pizza

Pizza is a beloved food worldwide, and a key ingredient that makes it so popular is the cheese. The type of cheese used on a pizza can vary depending on personal preference, availability of ingredients, and desired flavour profile. While some people prefer the traditional mozzarella, others may opt for cheddar, provolone, or a blend of multiple cheeses. This article will explore the different kinds of cheese that can be used on pizza, offering a guide to help you create your perfect pie.

Mozzarella: The Classic

Mozzarella is the most well-known and popular pizza topping. It is cherished for its near-perfect consistency and straightforward flavour. It is mild and fresh with a creamy consistency. It is super meltable and stretchable, and browns well. It is also traditional, with some arguing that a pizza isn't a pizza without mozzarella cheese.

Mozzarella is sold in both fresh and low-moisture variations, and both work well on pizzas. Fresh mozzarella has a softer texture and a higher water content. This extra water is released when the cheese is baked, which can cause a soggy crust. To avoid this, dry the cheese thoroughly before use. Low-moisture mozzarella is denser and saltier, with a longer shelf life. It has a low water content and releases little to no moisture when it melts, making it perfect for avoiding soggy pies.

Mozzarella is a great base cheese for a pizza, pairing well with other cheeses such as Parmesan, cheddar, and provolone. It is also the perfect foil for spicy toppings such as pepperoni or hot peppers.

Provolone: The Tangy

Provolone is a semi-hard Italian cheese that is a close relative of mozzarella. It is often used in conjunction with Parmigiano-Reggiano and mozzarella. In its youth, provolone has sweet and mild flavours, which sharpen as the cheese ages, and its texture becomes crumblier due to the forming of salt crystals in its body.

Provolone is a popular choice for pizza, as it can be used as a garnish or as the only cheese. It has a longer shelf life, stronger flavours, and is easier to melt than fresh mozzarella. It is also a good option for those who want a pizza with a classic pizzeria taste.

When using provolone on a pizza, it is best to opt for a younger cheese for maximum stretchability and a milder flavour. If a sharper flavour is desired, an aged version can be used. A younger cheese can be used on its own, or either variety can be blended with mozzarella for a flavour boost.

Provolone is a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed on its own or coupled with fresh tomatoes and basil as a simple yet flavourful pizza that is guaranteed to impress. It is a good choice for those who want a pizza with a classic taste and the option to customise their level of tanginess.

Cheddar: The Sharp

Cheddar is a well-known and widely used cheese, characterised by its sharp, nutty, rich flavour. It is a great addition to any pizza recipe, especially when paired with mild or spicy ingredients, as it enhances their flavours. Its deep flavour is ideal for recipes that need an extra kick, and it can be used as a wonderful garnish.

Cheddar is a popular choice for comfort foods, such as mac and cheese pizza, and is a must-have for many. The mature variety, in particular, is known for its sharp flavours and strong presence. It is packed with character and is powerful, with naturally formed salt crystals that add bite and nuance to the flavour.

While cheddar might not be the best choice as the only cheese on a pizza, as its fats and solids can separate when exposed to high temperatures, it is an excellent addition to a blend of multiple cheeses. This creates a pie with extra depth of flavour. When choosing cheddar for a pizza, opt for a "mild" or "medium" variety, as aged cheeses do not melt as well as younger ones.

Parmesan: The Crunchy

Parmesan is a hard, aged cheese that is not typically known for its meltability. However, when combined with other cheeses, it can add a delicious crunch to your pizza. Parmesan is often used in conjunction with other cheeses such as Romano or mozzarella to create a unique texture and enhance the overall flavour.

The Benefits of Using Parmesan

Parmesan is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of ways on pizza. It can be baked right into the crust, as seen in Papa John's Crispy Parm Pizza, where it is blended with Romano cheese and baked into the thin crust for a crispy and flavourful bite. This innovative approach adds an unexpected twist to the traditional pizza experience.

Another way to incorporate Parmesan into your pizza is by sprinkling it on top. Grated Parmesan can be added before or after baking, depending on your preference. Adding it before baking allows the cheese to melt slightly and blend with other toppings, creating a cohesive flavour profile. On the other hand, sprinkling Parmesan on top of your pizza after it's baked ensures that it retains its signature crunch, adding a textural contrast to the softness of the other toppings.

Customisation Options

The beauty of Parmesan is that it pairs well with a variety of toppings. Whether you're a fan of classic pepperoni or enjoy experimenting with unique combinations like chicken Parmesan, Parmesan cheese can elevate your pizza experience. It adds a savoury, umami note that complements a variety of ingredients. For a simple yet satisfying option, try a Margherita pizza with fresh tomatoes and basil, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. The sharpness of the cheese will enhance the sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a delightful flavour profile.

Storage and Freshness

When using Parmesan, it's important to ensure that it is stored properly to maintain its freshness. The cheese should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and the formation of mould. Additionally, it's best to grate the cheese yourself instead of purchasing pre-grated Parmesan, as the pre-grated variety may contain additives and preservatives that can affect taste and texture.

Parmesan cheese adds a crunchy texture and savoury flavour to your pizza, making it a versatile ingredient to experiment with. Whether baked into the crust or sprinkled on top, Parmesan elevates the overall taste and texture of your pizza. So, the next time you're crafting your own pizza, consider adding a generous helping of Parmesan for a delightful crunch in every bite!

Goat Cheese: The Tangy Twist

When it comes to pizza, goat cheese offers a unique twist on a classic. With its tangy flavour and creamy texture, goat cheese is an elegant and refreshing change from the more common pizza cheeses. Its tartness pairs wonderfully with milder vegetables and aromatic herbs, making it a versatile choice for those seeking a sophisticated flavour profile.

Goat cheese, also known as ChevrÉ, is a popular choice for those who want to explore beyond the traditional. Its distinct taste lingers on the palate, akin to the experience of savouring a dry white wine. Unlike some other cheeses, goat cheese does not melt in the same way, providing a different texture and feel to your pizza.

For those seeking a true taste of Italy, pairing goat cheese with Prosciutto and caramelised onions is a simple yet exquisite combination. The mild, creamy flavour of goat cheese complements the salty, savoury notes of Prosciutto, while the sweetness of caramelised onions adds a depth of flavour that is simply mesmerizing.

Goat cheese is also an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more dynamic pizza experience. Its unique flavour can be enhanced by experimenting with various toppings, creating a symphony of tastes and textures. From fresh herbs to crisp vegetables, goat cheese serves as the perfect canvas for culinary creativity.

In terms of preparation, goat cheese can be crumbled or spread, adding a delightful creaminess to your pizza. Its versatility extends to both red and white sauce pizzas, making it a versatile ingredient for any pizza lover.

So, if you're seeking a sophisticated twist on the traditional pizza, look no further than goat cheese. With its tangy flavour and elegant texture, it's sure to elevate your pizza experience and impress your taste buds.

Frequently asked questions