When it comes to pizza, the cheese game is everything – but what’s the Best Cheese for Pizza? From gooey mozzarella to sharp provolone, let’s dive into the melty, cheesy goodness that’ll take your homemade pies to a whole other level!
When it comes to crafting the perfect pizza, the best cheese for pizza can make all the difference. Whether you’re a fan of the classic mozzarella or love experimenting with bolder flavours, choosing the right cheese is the secret to a slice that’s melty, gooey, and bursting with ALL OF THE FLAVOUR you look for and deserve in that perfect slice. The type of cheese you use can elevate your pizza from “pretty good” to “absolutely mouthwatering.”
But with so many cheeses out there, how do you know which one’s right for your pie? Fear not! I’ve rounded up the best cheeses to use on pizza, so you can build the perfect base, add your favourite toppings, and create a pizza that’s sure to impress.
So, let’s dive into the ultimate cheesy goodness, shall we?!
BEST CHEESE FOR PIZZA: TOP PICKS FOR THE ULTIMATE SLICE
1. MOZZARELLA
Let’s start with the OG of pizza cheeses – mozzarella! After all, it’s that perfect balance of creamy, stretchy, and just the right amount of mild flavour that lets all your toppings shine. You can go for fresh mozzarella if you’re feeling fancy (hello, Margherita pizza vibes!) Or, stick with the low-moisture version for that signature bubbly, golden-brown top. Either way, mozzarella is the foundation for any classic pizza and a good choice for any slice.
2. PROVOLONE
If you like your pizza with a little more flavour but still want that stretchy, melty goodness, provolone is your cheese. It’s semi-hard with a mild sharpness, and it blends perfectly with mozzarella for a killer combo. In fact, if you’re aiming for an Italian deli-style pizza then provolone is definitely your go-to and I promise, everyone will love it!
3. CHEDDAR
Bet you didn’t expect to see cheddar here! While it’s not traditional, cheddar adds a punch of sharp, tangy flavour to your pizza. It doesn’t melt as smoothly as mozzarella, but mixed together? It’s chef’s kiss. Throw some on your next BBQ chicken or taco pizza – you won’t regret it. And if you’re still not convinced, try my epic cheeseburger pizza which throws it into the mix and will have everyone coming back for seconds!
4. PARMESAN
Okay, so Parmesan isn’t the melty type, but it’s the flavour bomb every pizza needs. Am I right?! Sprinkle it on after baking for that nutty, salty hit that makes every bite even better. Or, mix it into your sauce for an extra layer of flavour that’ll have everyone asking for your secret.
5. FONTINA
Looking for something buttery and smooth? In that case, fontina’s got you covered. This creamy cheese melts beautifully and adds a rich flavour that pairs well with fancier toppings like mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even prosciutto. If you want a pizza with a little sophistication, fontina is your new best friend.
6. GOUDA
If you’re in the mood to get creative with your homemade pizza night, then gouda cheese is a must try. The mild, smoky flavour of gouda (especially if you use the smoked version) is a game-changer, especially on pizzas with bacon or barbecue sauce. It’s rich and melts nicely, giving your pizza a unique, savory twist that’s incredibly addicting.
7. RICOTTA
This one’s for all my white pizza lovers out there (who, me?!). Ricotta brings a light, creamy texture that’s perfect for spreading dollops across the top of your pie. It’s mild, so it lets the garlic, olive oil, and spinach on your white pizza shine, making it a dream for veggie-loaded pizzas. It’s also good on tomato sauce based pizzas too… but hey, I’m Italian, there’s no surprise there!
8. GORGONZOLA
Feeling bold? Gorgonzola is for the adventurous pizza maker who loves strong, punchy flavours. It’s a blue cheese that adds a salty, tangy kick, especially when paired with sweet ingredients like figs or honey. If you’re into gourmet-style pizzas, don’t sleep on gorgonzola… it’s a serious game changer!
9. PECORINO ROMANO
Similar to Parmesan but with a bit more bite, Pecorino Romano is a salty, sharp cheese that can be sprinkled on top of your pizza after it’s baked. It’s the finishing touch that adds a bold, flavourful kick. Perfect for those who love a little extra oomph in their cheese game.
10. BURRATA
Mozzarella’s creamier, more indulgent cousin – burrata is all about luxury. When you want your pizza to feel fancy but still incredibly satisfying, just break open a ball of burrata over your hot pizza for an extra-creamy finish that oozes deliciousness with every bite. Perfect for simple, fresh pizzas like Margherita or arugula-topped creations.
11. GRUYÈRE
For a rich, nutty flavor with a hint of sweetness, Gruyère is a top contender. It’s often used in French cuisine but works wonders on pizza, especially paired with caramelized onions or mushrooms. If you’re feeling experimental, gruyère adds that next-level savory factor.
12. FETA
Craving a tangy, salty kick? Feta is your answer. This crumbly cheese doesn’t melt the way mozzarella does, but it adds a delicious burst of flavour, especially on veggie or Mediterranean-style pizzas. Pair it with spinach, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Greek-inspired slice that’s anything but ordinary!
13. GOAT’S CHEESE
For a rich, tangy flavour that adds a touch of gourmet flair, goat cheese is a fantastic choice. It doesn’t melt like mozzarella, but it gets wonderfully creamy and spreads nicely over your pizza. It pairs beautifully with ingredients like caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or a drizzle of honey for a unique, delicious twist on your classic pizza.
Looking for a cheese that melts beautifully and adds a mild, buttery flavour? In that case, Monterey Jack is your go-to. It’s smooth and creamy, making it a great choice for those who love a gooey, melty pizza. Mix it with cheddar for an extra cheesy blend or use it on its own for a simple, delicious topping.
15. FIOR DI LATTE
If you’re a fan of fresh mozzarella but want something a bit more refined, Fior di Latte is your cheese. Made from cow’s milk, it has a delicate, creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavour. It melts beautifully, creating that classic pizza gooeyness, and pairs perfectly with fresh tomatoes and basil for a truly authentic pizza experience.
For the ultimate cheesy pizza experience, don’t be afraid to mix and match these delicious cheeses to create the perfect blend of flavours and textures. Start with a base of gooey mozzarella for that classic melt and stretch, then add a layer of sharp provolone for extra kick. Crumble some feta on top for a tangy burst, and finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for a salty, umami punch. Moreover, if you’re feeling adventurous, a touch of creamy goat cheese or rich Gruyère can elevate your pizza to gourmet status.
The result? A pizza that’s indulgently cheesy and bursting with a harmonious blend of flavours!
Now that you’re armed with the ultimate cheese lineup, it’s time to get creative and make your pizza dreams come true. Choose one or mix and match these cheeses to craft a pizza that’s uniquely yours – whether you’re after classic comfort or gourmet flair. With the right cheese blend, each slice will be irresistibly creamy, cheesy, and packed full of flavour.
So, preheat that oven, roll out your homemade pizza dough, and pile on the cheesy goodness. Whether you stick to tradition or venture into new flavour territories, one thing’s for sure: your homemade pizza nights just got better. And as I always say, can you ever really have too much cheese?!
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