Kamil Perry
There are many opinions on where cheese should go on a pizza. Some people prefer to put the cheese on top of the toppings, while others prefer to put it underneath. The type of cheese used can also vary, with some people preferring classic options like mozzarella, while others experiment with different varieties such as cheddar, gorgonzola, or provolone. Ultimately, the decision of where to put the cheese depends on personal preference, the desired taste, and the cooking method.
Where does cheese go on a pizza?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese placement | Under toppings, unless "extra cheese" is requested, in which case it goes on top |
| Cheese type | Mozzarella, cheddar, gouda, camenbert, blue cheese, parmesan, provolone, gorgonzola |
| Cheese melt-ability | Whole milk low-moisture mozzarella tends to spread and melt more evenly |
| Cheese browning | Cheddar can brown prematurely due to its fat content |
| Cheese texture | Parmesan provides a delightful crunch and a crispy finish |
| Cheese taste | Cheddar adds a bold and distinctive flavor |
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What You'll Learn
Cheese first or toppings first?
There are many ways to build a pizza, and the order of toppings is often a matter of personal preference. However, there are some general guidelines and best practices to consider when deciding whether to put cheese first or toppings first.
One school of thought suggests that putting cheese first, closest to the dough, is the optimal method. This approach ensures that the cheese melts evenly and acts as a "glue" to hold the toppings in place. By creating a layer of cheese before adding toppings, you can prevent the toppings from sliding off and keep them securely in place. This technique is especially useful for larger toppings like pepperoni or vegetables, which need a sturdy base to stay put. Additionally, certain toppings, such as basil, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes, may need to be placed under the cheese to prevent them from burning or charring during the cooking process.
On the other hand, some people prefer to put toppings first, directly on top of the sauce, before adding the cheese. This method is often chosen when working with relatively dry toppings like bacon, pepperoni, or olives. Placing these toppings directly on the sauce and under the cheese can help enhance their flavor and texture. For example, mushrooms placed under the cheese can become soggy and watery, while putting them on top results in slightly toasted, flavorful bites. Meat toppings placed on top of the cheese can also get crispy and brown beautifully.
The type of pizza and regional preferences also play a role in the cheese-topping debate. For instance, Chicago-style pizza typically places cheese under the toppings, while Neapolitan or Sicilian pizzas often have cheese on top. Italian-style pizzas generally use less cheese, and it's not uncommon for their sauce and crust to be partially exposed. In North America, most pizza places will put the cheese under the toppings unless the customer specifically requests "extra cheese," in which case the cheese is loaded on top to give the visual appeal that people often desire when asking for more cheese.
Ultimately, the decision to put cheese first or toppings first depends on various factors, including personal preference, the type of toppings, and the desired cooking results. Experimenting with different building orders can lead to delicious discoveries, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to crafting the perfect pizza.
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What type of cheese to use?
When it comes to pizza, cheese is the star of the show. But with so many varieties to choose from, which one is the best for your pizza?
Mozzarella is the classic choice, known for its perfect melting quality, stretchiness, and ability to brown without burning. It spreads and melts evenly, making it a top pick for creating traditional pizzas. If you're looking for a cheesier option, try using whole milk low-moisture mozzarella, which will give your pizza an even cheesier pull.
However, if you want to step outside the box, there are plenty of other options to choose from. Cheddar, for instance, adds a bold and distinctive flavor to your pizza. But be cautious as it can separate under high baking temperatures due to its fat content. For best results, opt for a milder or medium cheddar, either as part of a cheese blend or on its own. Gorgonzola, a blue cheese from Italy, is another tasty option that delivers a rich, creamy, and aromatic touch to your pizza. It has a soft, slightly crumbly texture that melts beautifully, with a flavor profile that starts mild and becomes more intense as it lingers. If you're feeling adventurous, try pairing it with ingredients like prosciutto and caramelized onions for a true flavor explosion.
Provolone is another versatile cheese that adds a smooth and creamy texture with a hint of tanginess to your pizza. It comes in both younger and aged varieties, with the younger version providing a milder flavor and excellent stretchability, perfect for a gooey cheese layer. Parmesan, known for its nutty and salty taste, adds a unique layer of richness to your pizza. Its low moisture content makes it ideal for adding depth without overwhelming other ingredients, and its granular texture provides a delightful crunch. Whether you sprinkle it on before baking or as a final touch, Parmesan is a great way to enhance your pizza.
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How much cheese to use?
The amount of cheese you should use on a pizza depends on the type of pizza you are making, the number of toppings, and the order in which you layer the ingredients.
In North America, most pizza places put cheese underneath toppings. If a customer requests extra cheese, the cheese is loaded on top of all the toppings. This is because, as a visual species, we like to see the cheese, especially when we ask for and pay more for it. However, some places simply rearrange the layers and put all the cheese on top, so it looks like there is more.
The placement of cheese and toppings also depends on the type of ingredients you are using. For example, vegetables should go under the cheese so they don't shrivel up, and meat should go over the top of the cheese so it cooks and gets crispy. If you are using ingredients that do not need to be fully cooked, like tomatoes, peppers, and onions, you can add them before the cheese. If you are using ingredients that need to be fully cooked, like sausage or other meats, you can add them after the cheese.
When making a pizza with cheese on the bottom, use about 1/4 of the cheese before adding the toppings. You can then add more cheese on top of the toppings. For a 12-inch pizza, Italian-style pizzas typically have one-half to one-third of the amount of cheese used on a North American pizza.
Ultimately, the amount of cheese you use on a pizza is up to your personal preference. You can experiment with different amounts and placements of cheese to find what works best for your taste and the ingredients you are using.
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How to avoid a soggy pizza?
There are many factors that can contribute to a soggy pizza. Here are some tips to help you avoid this common problem:
Firstly, avoid adding too many toppings, especially those with high moisture content. Vegetables are a common culprit, as they release water during cooking. For example, raw mushrooms can shrink to half their size due to water loss. To reduce this risk, sauté vegetables in some oil before adding them to your pizza. Similarly, avoid using a sauce that is too watery, as the moisture will seep into the dough, causing a soggy base. If you are using a wet sauce, work quickly and cook the pizza immediately after topping. Alternatively, brush the base with oil before adding the sauce to create a waterproof layer.
Another factor to consider is the amount of cheese. While cheese placement varies, with some sources recommending cheese under the toppings and others on top, adding too much cheese can increase moisture and form a thick barrier on the dough, preventing heat from reaching it and resulting in a soggy pizza.
Additionally, ensure you are cooking your pizza at the correct temperature and preheat your oven for at least 30 minutes. Stretch your dough thinly and evenly to allow direct contact with heat, helping the base dry out and crisp up. For domestic ovens, it is recommended to cook the pizza on a lower rack or use a pizza stone to ensure the bottom of the pizza cooks properly.
Finally, if you are still struggling with sogginess, try partially cooking the pizza base without toppings first. Then, add the toppings and continue cooking for the remaining time. This technique ensures the base is partially cooked before adding the toppings, reducing the risk of sogginess.
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Should you bake the crust first?
There are differing opinions on whether you should bake the crust first. Some people prefer to bake the crust before adding the cheese to avoid a soggy base. This is because cheese has a high moisture content, and if it is placed directly on the crust, the moisture can be released into the base, making it soggy. This method can be preferable for pizzas with a lot of toppings, as it provides a sturdier base.
However, others choose to put the cheese on the crust before baking. This is a more common method for Italian-style pizzas, which use less cheese than North American pizzas and often leave the crust without a full layer of cheese. Putting the cheese on first can help the toppings stick to the pizza and prevent them from sliding off. It also means that the cheese melts into the other ingredients, creating a cohesive taste and texture.
The type of cheese used can also be a factor in this decision. Mozzarella, a popular pizza cheese, melts evenly and can be placed directly on the crust without the risk of burning. However, cheddar, another bold-flavoured option, may separate under high temperatures, so it is recommended to use it in a blend with other cheeses rather than as the sole cheese. Parmesan, with its low moisture content, can be added before or after baking, providing a crunchy texture and a unique flavour profile.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to bake the crust first depends on personal preference and the desired taste and texture of the pizza.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no one correct answer to this question. The placement of cheese on a pizza depends on the type of pizza and the other ingredients being used. In North America, most pizza places put cheese underneath toppings unless the customer requests "extra cheese", in which case the cheese is loaded on top of all the toppings.
Mozzarella is a popular choice for pizza due to its perfect melting quality, stretchiness, and ability to brown without burning. Other options include cheddar, gorgonzola, provolone, parmesan, and havarti.
Shredding your own cheese is recommended as pre-shredded cheese often contains starch to prevent clumping, which can cause the cheese to brown prematurely.
This depends on personal preference and the desired outcome. Par-baking the crust can help to prevent the cheese from burning, but it may also affect the melt and texture of the cheese.
