When it comes to pizza, cheese is the star of the show. While mozzarella is the classic choice, there are numerous other cheeses that can elevate your pizza experience to new heights. In this article, we’ll explore the various types of cheese that can be used on pizza, each bringing its unique flavor and texture.
| Cheese Type | Flavor Profile | Texture | Best Pairings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mozzarella | Soft, milky | Stretchy, creamy | Pepperoni, veggies |
| Parmesan | Nutty, sharp | Hard, crumbly | White sauce, chicken |
| Cheddar | Rich, sharp | Firm, slightly crumbly | Bacon, BBQ |
| Gorgonzola | Bold, tangy | Soft, creamy | Pear, walnuts |
| Ricotta | Mild, slightly sweet | Creamy, soft | Spinach, herbs |
| Feta | Salty, tangy | Creamy, crumbly | Olives, tomatoes |
| Provolone | Slightly sharp, smoky | Firm, elastic | Salami, peppers |
| Fontina | Nutty, buttery | Creamy, melting | Mushrooms, truffles |
| Havarti | Buttery, mild | Soft, creamy | Ham, fresh herbs |
| Asiago | Sharp, tangy | Hard, crumbly | Meats, roasted veggies |
Mozzarella
Mozzarella is the quintessential pizza cheese. Known for its milky flavor and stretchy texture, it melts beautifully and creates that iconic gooey layer of cheese on top of your pizza. Traditionally made from water buffalo milk, mozzarella is now often made from cow’s milk. It pairs well with a variety of toppings, including pepperoni and fresh vegetables, making it a versatile choice for any pizza lover.
Parmesan
Parmesan cheese adds a nutty and sharp flavor that can enhance the taste of your pizza. This hard, crumbly cheese is usually grated and sprinkled on top just before serving. Its robust flavor works well with white sauce pizzas and can complement chicken or even roasted vegetables, giving your pizza a gourmet touch.
Cheddar
Cheddar cheese is known for its rich and sharp flavor, making it a fantastic option for those who enjoy a bolder taste. Its firm texture melts well, and it is often used in combination with mozzarella to create a unique flavor profile. Cheddar pairs excellently with toppings such as bacon or BBQ chicken, adding a delicious twist to your traditional pizza.
Gorgonzola
If you’re looking for a bold and tangy flavor, Gorgonzola is the cheese for you. This blue cheese adds a rich, creamy texture and a punchy taste that can elevate your pizza to new heights. It pairs beautifully with sweet toppings like pears and walnuts, creating a delightful contrast that will impress your taste buds.
Ricotta
Ricotta cheese is mild and slightly sweet, making it a perfect addition to pizzas that feature fresh herbs or spinach. Its creamy texture can be dolloped on top of the pizza before baking or added after cooking for a fresh taste. Ricotta adds a richness that complements a variety of toppings, making it a favorite among pizza enthusiasts.
Feta
Feta cheese brings a salty and tangy flavor that can brighten up your pizza. Its crumbly texture makes it easy to sprinkle over your pizza, and it pairs well with Mediterranean toppings like olives and tomatoes. Feta can add a unique twist to traditional pizza recipes, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a bit of tang.
Provolone
Provolone cheese is slightly sharp and smoky, adding depth to your pizza. It has a firm, elastic texture that melts well, making it a great choice for blending with other cheeses. Provolone pairs nicely with meats like salami and peppers, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your pizza.
Fontina
Fontina cheese is known for its nutty and buttery flavor. This creamy cheese melts beautifully, making it a perfect choice for gourmet pizzas. It pairs well with earthy toppings like mushrooms and truffles, creating a rich and satisfying pizza experience.
Havarti
Havarti cheese is buttery and mild, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a subtler cheese flavor. Its soft and creamy texture melts well, and it pairs nicely with ham and fresh herbs. Havarti can add a delightful creaminess to your pizza, balancing out bolder toppings.
Asiago
Asiago cheese offers a sharp and tangy flavor that can enhance your pizza significantly. This hard cheese is best grated and sprinkled over your pizza for an extra kick. Asiago pairs well with meats and roasted vegetables, making it a versatile choice for various pizza styles.
FAQ
What is the best cheese for pizza?
The best cheese for pizza is often considered to be mozzarella due to its excellent melting qualities and mild flavor. However, combining mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone can create a more complex flavor profile.
Can I use non-dairy cheese on pizza?
Yes, non-dairy cheese options are available for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer vegan options. These cheeses can melt and provide a similar texture to traditional cheese, although the flavor may differ.
How do I choose the right cheese for my pizza toppings?
When choosing cheese for your pizza, consider the flavor profile of your toppings. For example, if you’re using bold toppings like spicy sausage, a milder cheese like ricotta can balance the flavors, while a sharper cheese like cheddar can complement richer toppings like BBQ chicken.
For more information on cheese varieties and their uses, you can visit trusted sources such as the [USDA](https://www.usda.gov/) or the [National Dairy Council](https://www.nationaldairycouncil.org/).