What’s the Best Cheese for Pizza?

Classic Pepperoni? Controversial pineapple? No matter what your opinion is on pizza toppings, there is no denying that cheese is the key ingredient. Pizza wouldn't be the same without it! But with so many types of cheese to choose from, which is the best for pizza?

This mild white cheese hails from southern Italy and was traditionally made with buffalo milk. Present day, there are many different varieties, including buffalo, cow, sheep, and goat. Outside of the European Union, mozzarella is typically made with cow milk and is denoted on the label as such with the phrase "Fior di latte".

This white, creamy cheese has a smooth and delicate texture, and its mild flavor allows toppings to shine. Mozzarella melts better than most other cheeses due to its lower melting point, meaning you can reduce your baking time and achieve wonderful results. Additionally, when cooked, mozzarella has a nice crispy crust when melted, creating a delicious golden 'pull-apart' effect that you won't get from harder cheeses like cheddar or parmesan.

While mozzarella is the common choice for pizza, feta gives you something extra- a gourmet twist that can take your pizza to the next level. Feta cheese is an aged sheep's or goat's milk cheese originating from Greece. It has a sharp flavor and crumbly texture that enhances the flavors of other ingredients in a dish. Its creamy, salty taste pairs perfectly with tangy tomato sauce and aromatic herbs, making it the perfect canvas for whatever your favorite toppings are. 

Feta also offers a nutritional value to your plate as it is typically lower in calories and fat in comparison to other varieties of cheese. Whether you're looking to make an ordinary cheese pizza extra special or something truly out of this world, feta will help ensure that your pizza comes together perfectly every time.

Ricotta cheese is often overlooked as an ingredient for pizza, but it's ideal for creating the perfect pizza. Ricotta can be used in place of classic mozzarella, with the benefit of not becoming stringy as it melts. Ricotta has a softer texture than many other kinds of cheese, so it's easier to spread around the pizza evenly during preparation; this helps the cheese melt evenly and enhances crispiness when baked in the oven.

The delicate flavor of ricotta won't overpower other ingredients, such as vegetables or meats, making it a great choice for those who prefer a variety of toppings on their pizza. Additionally, this wonderful cheese elevates the flavors of marinara sauces but doesn't require additional seasoning — making it an excellent choice for home cooks! Finally, ricotta has a higher protein content than other cheeses such as feta or cheddar, making it pack an extra nutritional punch. 

In short, any pizza-lover would do well to consider ricotta when preparing their delicious creations.

Join us for a one-of-a-kind pizza experience this month and enjoy our famous pies made with the finest cheeses. We offer all the classic favorites like mozzarella, feta, and ricotta, as well as unique combinations sure to tantalize your taste buds- like our International Pizza Expo Winner: the Victory Pizza! Try something new and out-of-this-world delicious today at your local pizzeria in Smyrna , Zucca Bar & Pizzeria!