Kamil Perry
There are many ways to make a pizza, and the order of the ingredients is a topic of debate. Some people prefer to put cheese on their pizza first, while others believe that cheese should be added last. Various factors come into play, such as the type of cheese, the number of toppings, and personal preferences. Ultimately, the decision to put cheese first or last depends on the desired taste, texture, and appearance of the pizza.
Cheese first or last on pizza?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese first | Cheese acts as a base, protecting the crust from getting soggy. It also melts directly onto the crust, reducing the cheese sliding off when you take a bite. |
| Cheese last | Toppings get toasted from the oven, which doesn't happen if they are covered in cheese. Cheese on top is fine for dry toppings like bacon, pepperoni or olives. |
| Cheese type | Use whole milk, low-moisture mozzarella as it spreads and melts more evenly. |
| Cheese application | Shred your own cheese as pre-shredded cheese is coated in starch, causing it to brown early in the cooking process. |
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What You'll Learn
Cheese first or last?
There are various methods for adding cheese to a pizza, and the best approach depends on the desired outcome and the type of cheese used.
One popular method is to add cheese first, directly onto the dough. This allows the cheese to melt directly onto the crust, reducing "cheese drag" when taking a bite. Adding cheese first can also protect the crust from becoming gummy and prevent toppings from drying out. However, adding cheese first can also trap moisture in the toppings, making the pizza watery. To avoid this, some people add a thin layer of cheese first, followed by toppings, and then another layer of cheese. This helps the pizza hold together better and ensures even melting.
On the other hand, some people prefer to add cheese last, after the sauce and toppings. This allows the toppings to get toasted and can prevent the pizza from becoming soggy or watery. Adding cheese last is especially suitable for relatively dry toppings like bacon, pepperoni, or olives. It also ensures that the cheese does not interfere with spreading the sauce evenly.
The type of cheese used can also impact the decision to add cheese first or last. For example, whole milk low-moisture mozzarella tends to spread and melt more evenly, making it a good choice for adding cheese first. Pre-packaged shredded cheese, on the other hand, tends to brown prematurely due to the added starch, so it may be better to add this type of cheese last.
Ultimately, the decision to add cheese first or last comes down to personal preference and the desired outcome for the pizza. Both methods can produce delicious results, so it's worth experimenting to see which approach works best for your taste and preferences.
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Cheese melt-ability
Mozzarella is a popular choice for pizza due to its meltability and stretchability, resulting in the classic gooey, stringy texture. However, some find the flavour of mozzarella to be lacking. To enhance the taste, you can combine it with other cheeses like provolone, which also has good meltability, or sharp cheddar for a more assertive flavour.
Other cheeses with good meltability include cheddar, fontina, Gouda, Jack, Muenster, Swiss raclette, and provolone. These cheeses will melt into a gooey, messy delight without sacrificing flavour. Harder and more aged cheeses, like Parmesan, are less likely to melt smoothly and may leave lumps on your pizza.
To maximise melt-ability, it is recommended to use whole milk, low-moisture mozzarella as it spreads and melts more evenly. Shredding your own cheese is also advised, as pre-packaged shredded cheese often contains starch to prevent clumping, which can cause the cheese to brown prematurely.
Finally, the placement of cheese during cooking can impact its melt-ability. Some people prefer to add cheese first, as it melts directly onto the crust, creating a barrier that protects the crust from becoming gummy. Others add cheese midway through baking, resulting in a creamier texture. Experimenting with different methods will help you find your preferred level of melt-ability and browning.
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Layering to prevent sogginess
To prevent a soggy pizza, you need to carefully consider the moisture levels in your ingredients. Here are some tips for layering your pizza to avoid sogginess:
Firstly, pre-bake your crust. Giving your crust a head start in the oven helps it stay crispy once the toppings are added. This is a crucial step to prevent your pizza from turning soggy. You can also try par-baking your crust before adding the cheese. This will give you a creamier texture.
Secondly, use the right amount of sauce. Too much sauce can make your pizza soggy, while too little might leave it bland. Apply just enough to coat the dough lightly, leaving a small border for the crust. This ensures that each bite is flavorful without overwhelming the dough.
Thirdly, layer your cheese and toppings correctly. Cheese acts as a barrier between the sauce and your toppings, preventing them from making the crust soggy. Start with a generous layer of cheese, ensuring it covers the sauce entirely. Once the cheese is in place, add your toppings. Place meat toppings like pepperoni, sausage, or bacon directly on the cheese. This allows the meat to render its fat, infusing the pizza with rich flavors. Add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms next. Vegetables tend to release moisture during baking, so they should be placed on top of the cheese to avoid making the pizza soggy.
Finally, drain moist ingredients before adding them to your pizza to prevent excess moisture. For example, fresh mozzarella has a lot of excess liquid, so you may want to let it dry before adding it to your pizza. Ingredients like fresh tomatoes or mushrooms release water as they cook, so be sure to drain them first.
By following these layering tips, you can help prevent your pizza from turning soggy and enjoy a delicious, crispy slice every time!
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Toasting toppings
When it comes to pizza, there are endless possibilities for customization, and the order in which you assemble the ingredients can make a big difference in the final result. While there is no definitive answer to the "cheese first or last" debate, here are some detailed instructions and tips for achieving the perfect toasty toppings:
The "Cheese First" Method:
Start by sprinkling a thin layer of shredded cheese directly onto the dough. This will help the cheese melt evenly and create a gooey base for your toppings. If you're using a combination of cheeses, feel free to mix them or layer them for added texture and flavor.
Add Your Toppings:
Now it's time to get creative. If you're working with fresh herbs, spinach, or other vegetables that tend to release moisture, place them onto your pizza now. This will ensure they don't make your pie watery. Then, if you're using toppings that benefit from direct heat, like meats or firmer vegetables, add them next.
The "Cheese Last" Method:
If you prefer a deeper flavor and a bit of toasting on your toppings, opt for adding the cheese last. Start with your sauce, spreading it evenly over the dough, and then add your chosen toppings. Finally, top it all off with a generous layer of shredded cheese. This method is ideal for dry toppings like bacon, pepperoni, or olives, as the cheese will help lock in moisture and prevent them from burning.
Melting Magic:
No matter which assembly method you choose, achieving the perfect melt is crucial. To avoid premature browning or burning of your cheese, use whole milk, low-moisture mozzarella, and shred it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese often contains starch, which can cause it to brown too quickly and affect the taste.
Experiment and Enjoy:
Ultimately, the best way to determine your preferred method is to experiment. Try making pizzas with cheese first and last, adjusting the types of toppings and their placement each time. Remember that factors like oven temperature and baking time also play a role in the final product. So, don't be afraid to tweak those as well until you find the perfect combination for your perfect pizza.
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Cheese adherence
One school of thought advocates for putting cheese on first. This method involves layering cheese directly onto the dough, followed by sauce and toppings. Cheese first enthusiasts argue that this technique helps the cheese melt directly onto the crust, reducing "cheese drag" when taking a bite. It also acts as a protective barrier, preventing the crust from becoming soggy due to the sauce or trapped moisture from certain toppings. This approach is particularly effective for pizzas with relatively dry toppings, such as bacon, pepperoni, or olives. Additionally, starting with cheese allows the sauce to thicken and sweeten due to evaporation during the baking process.
On the other hand, some pizza aficionados prefer the toppings first approach. This method involves spreading the sauce directly onto the dough, adding toppings, and then finishing with a generous layer of cheese. Advocates of this technique believe that it allows the toppings to toast and develop flavour more effectively. They argue that placing cheese directly on top of certain toppings, especially vegetables like mushrooms, can trap moisture and result in a watery pizza. The toppings first method is recommended for ingredients that benefit from direct heat, such as fresh herbs or spinach, which can dry out quickly.
A third option is to employ a combination of both methods, using a thin layer of cheese first, followed by toppings, and then finishing with an additional layer of cheese. This technique helps hold all the ingredients together, ensuring nothing slips off the slice. Ultimately, the decision of cheese first or last depends on personal preference and the desired flavour and texture profile of the final pizza.
Regardless of the chosen order, it is essential to consider the type and preparation of cheese used. For optimal melting and browning control, it is recommended to use whole milk, low-moisture mozzarella, and shred the cheese yourself. Pre-shredded cheese often contains starch, which can cause premature browning and impact the overall taste and appearance of the pizza.
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Frequently asked questions
There are benefits to both methods. Putting cheese first can protect the crust from getting gummy and prevent "cheese drag". It also means the surface sauce is more likely to evaporate, thicken, and sweeten. However, if you put cheese last, you can avoid a soggy pizza, as cheese on top can trap water in. You also get a nice toasted flavour on your toppings.
It is recommended to use whole milk, low-moisture mozzarella as it tends to spread and melt more evenly.
It is best to shred your own cheese, as pre-shredded cheese contains starch to stop it from sticking, which can cause it to brown prematurely.
Par-baking the crust before adding cheese can result in a creamier texture, whereas adding cheese from the start can result in a more caramelized texture. It is a matter of personal preference.
