Enjoying a cheesy pizza shouldn't take lots of work! Read here to find out the best cheese for homemade pizza and more easy recipes to try this week.
If there's one dish that's a fan favorite among nearly every age group, it's pizza. This meal has been a staple in many households, and it's no wonder why. This dish checks every flavor box with filling bread, savory sauce, and creamy cheese.
When you're looking for meal solutions you can put together with little effort, homemade pizza is an excellent option. You don't have to spend hours in front of a stove or oven, either. Keep reading, and we'll show you quick pizza recipes you can enjoy cooking.
Let's find out which cheese makes the best companion for homemade pizza!
Cheeses To Use on Pizza
So what cheese goes best on top of pizza? There are several options you can choose, depending on what you’re looking for.
What Factors Should You Use for Selecting Your Cheese?
Did you know there are multiple categories to consider when selecting a cheese to use on top of your sauce and dough? Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Browning: Can your cheese turn brown without burning? If so, it may be a tasty option for your pizza.
- Moisture: The moisture in your cheese is more important than you think. Cheese with lower moisture is ideal, and it can result in cheese that stretches the best.
- Meltability: This component can influence how thin the cheese gets as it softens in the oven. Rather than lumping up, it should spread evenly across the dough.
- Fat: Thin queso is delicious, but you probably want a less watery cheese on your pizza. Choosing cheese with higher milk fat can help your cheese melt and brown so that it looks and tastes delectable.
Remembering these factors can help you choose the best cheese for your pizza and enjoy the result even more! Let's look at which cheeses you might think about using.
Provolone
This Italian cheese is semi-hard, and it combines well when added to other cheeses. Its flavor can range from creamy to sharp, depending on how long it ages. It works great with several types of pizza, making it a terrific go-to choice for your pizza nights.
Cheddar
Many people love cheddar for its sharp flavor when added to burgers and sandwiches. Did you know cheddar cheese also makes an excellent topping addition for your homemade pizzas?
However, you'll probably want to stick to adding this one with other cheeses in a blend since it tends to brown easily.
Parmesan
If you've ever been to an Italian restaurant, you know how much of a staple parmesan cheese can be. This cheese makes a terrific topping for lasagnas, salads, bread, and pizza.
Keep in mind that parmesan doesn't do well in the oven. When using this cheese, you'll want to grate it on top of your already-cooked melty pizza to enjoy its flavor.
Goat Cheese
Goat cheese may not melt well, but you can still use it to make your pizzas even tastier. This creamy cheese softens and contributes a mouth-watering flavor that can make your pizzas more exciting.
Gouda
Need a unique cheese for a thin-crust pizza? Gouda might be the cheese for you. This versatile cheese option complements the flavors of multiple toppings, making it a great alternative to have on hand for whenever you might need it.
Gruyere
Here's another cheese that you can try for a new pizza experience. Gruyere has a mix of flavors that can make every bite inviting. It melts well over your dough and sauce and tastes delicious, making it another suitable choice for your homemade pizzas.
Why Is Mozzarella the Best Cheese for Your Pizza?
Although all of the above cheese can contribute unique elements to your dish, one cheese outshines them all: mozzarella. This cheese is the most popular option people reach for when making pizza, and it's no surprise why. This cheese tastes super fresh and melts exceptionally well.
Using low-moisture mozzarella is even better. The lower moisture can help your cheese become melty and stretchy without being watery or too thin.
Aren't you glad the best cheese for pizza isn't complicated? You won't have to search all over the grocery store for some fancy cheese variety; homemade pizza can be simple and easy.