Pizza is one of the most popular dishes around the globe, and Margherita pizza is arguably the most classic pizza recipe out there.
It’s simple yet delicious, consisting of a few basic ingredients: tomato sauce, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella cheese.
However, finding the perfect cheese for Margherita pizza can be a daunting task.
With so many different types of cheese available, it can be hard to know where to start.
In this article, we will explore the top 10 best cheeses for Margherita pizza, so you can make the tastiest pizza ever.
Factors to consider when choosing cheese for Margherita pizza
When it comes to choosing cheese for Margherita pizza, there are several key factors to consider.
- Firstly, you want a cheese that will melt well and not separate into oil and solids.
- Second, you want a cheese that has a balanced moisture content to prevent your pizza from becoming too soggy.
- Third, the cheese should have a flavor profile that complements the other toppings on your pizza.
- Finally, the cheese should be compatible with the temperature and cooking time of your pizza.
By taking all of these factors into account, you can choose the perfect cheese for Margherita pizza.
The 10 Best Cheeses For Margherita Pizza
Margherita pizza is a classic dish that never goes out of style.
The key to making this Italian favorite is finding the perfect cheese, as it’s an essential ingredient.
Here are ten cheeses that will take your Margherita pizza from good to great:
1. Fresh Mozzarella
Fresh mozzarella is the classic choice for Margherita pizza. It’s a soft cheese made from cows’ milk that has a high moisture content and a mild, milky flavor.
Fresh mozzarella melts quickly, forming a stretchy, stringy layer on your pizza. It also has a low melting point, so it doesn’t take long to cook. Because of its mild flavor, fresh mozzarella complements the sweetness of the tomato sauce and harmonizes with the fresh basil leaves.
2. Buffalo Mozzarella
Buffalo mozzarella is another Italian cheese that works well on Margherita pizza. It’s made from the milk of water buffalo, and it has a creamier texture and slightly tangier flavor than fresh mozzarella.
Buffalo mozzarella has a higher fat content than cows’ milk mozzarella, which makes it a richer and more indulgent choice. It can be a bit more expensive than other cheeses, but it’s worth it if you want to take your Margherita pizza to the next level.
3. Burrata
Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese that consists of a pouch of creamy curds wrapped in a layer of mozzarella. When heated, the pouch of curds melts and mixes with the mozzarella to create an oozy, velvety texture.
Burrata has a creamy flavor that balances the acidity of the tomato sauce and the pungency of the basil leaves. Burrata is a more luxurious choice, but it’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something special.
4. Caciocavallo
Caciocavallo is a semi-hard Italian cheese that has a mild, buttery flavor and a slightly nutty tang. It has a firm texture and a low moisture content, which makes it ideal for melting on pizza.
Caciocavallo’s flavor profile is more complex than mozzarella, which can add depth to your Margherita pizza. It’s also a more budget-friendly option if you want to experiment with different cheese flavors.
5. Provolone
Provolone is an Italian cheese that’s similar in texture to mozzarella but has a sharper, smokier flavor. It’s made from cow’s milk and has a pale yellow color.
Smoked provolone can add a nice depth of flavor to your Margherita pizza, and its firm texture makes it ideal for grated cheese toppings.
If you’re looking for a cheese that adds a bit of a kick to your pizza, provolone is a great option.
6. Fontina
Fontina is a semi-soft cheese from Italy that has a nutty and buttery flavor. The cheese has a creamy texture and melts well.
Fontina’s flavor profile complements the sweetness of the tomato sauce and the saltiness of the cheese. It is also a good cheese to use if you’re adding other toppings like meats or vegetables.
7. Gorgonzola
Gorgonzola is a blue cheese from Italy that is made from cow’s milk. It has a sharp and tangy flavor and creamy texture.
Gorgonzola’s flavor profile can be intense, but it pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of fresh basil. It is also ideal for those who want to add extra flavor to their Margherita Pizza, especially if you’re looking for a cheese that has a personality.
8. Parmesan
Parmesan is a hard, dry cheese that originated in Italy. It has a nutty and salty flavor and is often used as a grated topping on pizza.
Sprinkling parmesan on your Margherita pizza can add a layer of intensity and crispiness to your pizza. It is also perfect for people who want to add a touch of saltiness to their pizza.
9. Pecorino Romano
Pecorino Romano is a hard and salty cheese made from sheep’s milk. It has a crumbly texture and a tangy flavor.
This cheese can add a sharp and salty taste to your Margherita pizza and pairs perfectly with the fresh basil. Pecorino Romano is often used in Italian cuisine and is a great option for people who like their cheeses to have a sharper taste.
10. Asiago
Asiago is a semi-hard cheese from Italy that has a slightly nutty flavor. This cheese is a mixture of cow and sheep’s milk, making it creamier and tastier.
If you want your cheese to have a more delicate flavor, Asiago is a great option. It’s also nice if you’re going to add other toppings like mushrooms or peppers, as it has a versatile taste.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right cheese for your Margherita pizza can make all the difference, and there are many tasty options to pick from. Fresh mozzarella is the classic choice, but don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses like buffalo mozzarella or Gorgonzola.
Keep in mind the factors we discussed earlier, such as melting point and compatibility with other toppings. The cheese is just one part of a good Margherita pizza, so be sure to also use fresh tomato sauce and herbs. With the right ingredients, you’ll be able to make a Margherita pizza that’s packed with flavor and sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
The 10 Best Cheeses For Margherita Pizza
Ingredients
- Fresh Mozzarella
- Buffalo Mozzarella
- Burrata
- Caciocavallo
- Provolone
- Fontina
- Gorgonzola
Instructions
- Select your favorite cheese from this article.
- Prep all of the required ingredients.
- Prep a pizza in 30 minutes or less.