If you’re looking for the best cheese for pizza to make delicious pies, learn about your options and find out which one is best suited for your needs.
Best Cheese for Pizza
If you’re an avid pizza enthusiast, you know how important it is to choose the right type of cheese for your dish. Different types of cheeses bring out different flavors and characteristics, so selecting a cheese that best complements the other toppings on your pie is critical.
With this in mind, we have gathered together nine of the top-rated cheeses used on pizza worldwide, from classic mozzarella to more niche varieties like smoked cheddar. Learn about each one and find out the best cheese for pizza on your next homemade recipe!
List of Best Cheese for Pizza
Best Cheese for Pizza: Top 9
1. Mozzarella
Mozzarella reigns as the best cheese for pizza. According to Pizza Heaven, it’s a crucial ingredient for a genuine Neapolitan-style pizza. Not only is its creamy, white texture and mild taste delicious, but it also melts well, making it a versatile choice for a variety of toppings.
Compared to other cheese types, mozzarella boasts a lower sodium level and is a good source of protein, reports Eating Well.
Two types of mozzarella commonly used in pizza-making are fior di latte, which comes from cow’s milk, and buffalo mozzarella, made from water buffalo milk.
But regardless of the type, mozzarella is versatile enough to be used in different forms, from thick slices to shredded bits. It pairs particularly well with tomatoes, as evidenced by the classic Italian Caprese salad.
If you want a creamy consistency and distinctive flavor that complements tomato sauce, opt for fresh mozzarella discs. However, be aware of the potential moisture problem- a simple fix is to dab the slices with kitchen paper before placing them on your pizza.
On the other hand, if you prefer your cheese to serve as a backdrop for other toppings, low-moisture grated mozzarella is a good alternative.
Regardless of the form you choose, mozzarella pairs well with other ingredients and will melt beautifully on your pizza, enhancing your pizza-eating experience. While mozzarella is a top choice for many, there are more options out there if you want something with a more robust flavor.
Perfect Mozzarella Pizza Toppings
- Pepperoni
- Basil
- Vienna Sausage
- Tomatoes
- Salami
- Olives
- Red Peppers
- Arugula
Our choice: 365 by Whole Foods Market Mozzarella Shredded
Do you struggle to find the right cheese for your family? Whether you’re looking for an ingredient for dinner tonight or stocking the pantry with something delicious, 365 by Whole Foods Market Mozzarella Shredded can provide just what you need.
Manufactured in the United States, this product meets all of the rigorous standards set by Whole Foods Market. Not only that but Mozzarella Shredded is made without compromising on ingredients, giving you peace of mind when serving it to your family and friends!
This Mozzarella Shredded is also ideal for those who have food restrictions – especially picky eaters like my 4-year-old son. This cheese melts well and won’t dry out as quickly as other brands.
Whether used to top off a homemade pizza or served in a bowl sprinkled over pasta, it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. And due to its slightly wider cut, it’s easier to eat than other shredded cheeses.
When you’re looking for great tasting and natural cheese that meets all of your expectations in terms of quality, look no further than 365 by Whole Foods Market Mozzarella Shredded. You won’t regret it!
What do people like?
– Perfect for homemade pizza or adding extra cheese to store-bought pies.
– Contains no fillers or preservatives
– High-quality texture and taste
– Can be used for multiple recipes
– It’s a good deal for the price.
2. Cheddar
A sharp and flavorful cheese, cheddar helps to add a robust taste to your pizza. If you want something with a bit more character, try smoked cheddar for an extra layer of smokiness in every bite.
Cheddar cheese stands out as a fan favorite among cheeses and is easily recognized by its distinct yellow coloring and bold flavor.
Thanks to the salt crystals within the cheese, its unique taste can enhance many other flavors and is a great addition to a variety of dishes. Particularly on pizza, cheddar cheese offers a smooth and creamy consistency when melted properly.
When selecting a cheddar cheese for your pizza, it’s important to consider its degree of sharpness. As a rule of thumb, milder cheddar works best for simple pies while sharper cheddar can add an intense flavor to your pizza.
Keep in mind the differences in moisture, and consider pairing your cheese with different toppings, from pepperoni to jalapeño. Whether you prefer a classic cheese pizza or innovative twists like a cheeseburger or mac-and-cheese toppings, cheddar is the perfect choice for a cheesy and delicious pizza.
Perfect Cheddar Pizza Toppings
- Classic Pepperoni
- Savory Ham
- Crispy Bacon
- Sweet Pineapple
- Tender Chicken
- Rich Caramelized Onion
- Flavorful Capers
- Nutritious Broccoli
Our choice: Nutristore Freeze-Dried Cheddar Cheese Shredded
Nutristore Freeze-Dried Cheddar Cheese Shredded is an easy-to-prep and craft meal that offers a premium quality taste. With 40 servings per can, this product provides the best value for your buy and guarantees customer satisfaction.
Made only with the finest ingredients and nutrients, Nutristore freeze-dried shredded cheese will stay savory upon reconstitution or even make for a great healthy snack straight from the can.
Versatility is what sets Nutristore cheddar cheese – it’s perfect for everyday cooking, lightweight camping/backpacking MRE meals, or emergency survival food storage with a reliable shelf life that boasts 25 years from now!
Use it in your favorite recipes such as pizza, mac & cheese, nachos, lasagna, or quesadillas. All you have to do is add water and enjoy!
For any potential issues or damaged products from your purchase, rest assured knowing Nutristore has a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee.
Make the wise choice for emergency storage to have peace of mind you are ready no matter the circumstance: Nutristore Freeze-Dried Cheddar Cheese Shredded not only tastes great but helps you feel prepared with its long-lasting shelf life.
What do people like?
– You can eat like a snack.
– Easy to cook with and melts quickly.
– Delicious flavor that goes great with many dishes.
– Grate it like freshly grated cheese.
3. Provolone
Provolone cheese is more than just a sandwich staple! When used on pizza, it provides a savory, cheesy flavor and great melting ability. Provolone is often blended with mozzarella and Parmigiano-Reggiano for the perfect pizza topping.
Young provolone is sweet and mild but gets sharper as it ages. It’s semi-firm and produces a great flavor. The older it gets, the more crumbly it becomes, thanks to salt crystallization. Adding young provolone as the main event guarantees a delicious pizza.
For a tasty twist, shred some aged provolone on top of your pie, similar to parmesan. Keep your toppings on the lighter side with fresh tomatoes and basil for a fragrant finish.
Provolone has a versatile flavor and texture that ranges from sweet and creamy to dry and sharp. Both types melt well and work excellently when mixed with mozzarella.
For a milder flavor, deli provolone is an excellent choice that’s ideal for classic cheese pizza. For a sharper taste, try provolone piccante on a classy cheeseboard.
Choose younger provolone for a sweeter flavor with a creamier texture or older provolone for a dryer texture and a sharper taste. Whichever you choose, your pizza will surely be a hit!
Perfect Cheddar Pizza Toppings
- Juicy chicken
- Fragrant basil
- Flavorful pesto
- Sweet Tomatoes
- Crunchy onions
- Nutritious broccoli
- Zesty red peppers
- Savory sausage
- Delicious spinach
Our choice: Sargento Provolone Natural Cheese Slices
If you’re looking to bring a little taste of Italy to your dining room table, Sargento Provolone Natural Cheese Slices are the perfect way to do it.
These delicious cheese slices come pre-sliced and packaged in an easy-close FreshLock packaging that helps keep them fresher for longer — though you should use them within five days upon opening for best results.
Each 8 oz. package includes 12 slices of 100% real, natural cheese made with cultured pasteurized milk, salt, and natural enzymes for a strong flavor profile and creamy texture that makes them ideal for various applications.
Try using them in appetizers such as calzones or entrees like Provolone chicken or Philly cheesesteaks — the mild yet savory flavor will elevate any dish! Make your next meal more memorable with Provolone Natural Cheese Slices from Sargento.
What do people like?
– Full of flavor and contains no preservatives.
– Made with all-natural ingredients.
– Easy to melt and use.
– Variety of uses like sandwiches, pizza, chips, etc.
4. Parmesan
Parmesan cheese is the best cheese for pizza, providing a salty finish that complements a wide variety of ingredients. Typically used as a finishing cheese rather than a base, Parmesan can be paired with other melty cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar to add flavor to your pizza.
For those seeking a more complex flavor profile, the aged Parmigiano-Reggiano offers notes of brown butter, roasted hazelnuts, and a salty finish.
Experiment with toppings like prosciutto or arugula, or stick to classic combinations like Hawaiian pizza where the salty cheese brings out the sweet pineapple and savory ham.
While it’s tempting to go heavy on the Parmesan, it should be used sparingly as a garnish to enhance the flavor of the whole pie.
Shredding or shaving it over the top of a freshly baked pizza will yield the best results, as cooking Parmesan will diminish its delicate umami taste. Enjoy the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese on your next homemade pizza.
Perfect Parmesan Pizza Toppings
- Mozzarella cheese
- Provolone cheese
- Crispy bacon
- Freshly cooked broccoli
- Savory prosciutto
- Peppery arugula
Our choice: Kraft Parmesan & Romano Grated Cheese
This is a delicious way to add flavor, texture, and variety to your favorite recipes. Our pre-sliced cheese slices are made with premium quality milk which has been enriched with Parmesan and Romano cheese from cow’s milk, for an incredible taste you won’t find anywhere else.
With no fillers or added artificial ingredients, this cheese provides 0 carbs for anyone on a gluten-free diet. It comes ready to eat in individually wrapped slices so you can enhance your sandwiches, wraps, pizzas, or salads in just minutes.
Plus, it’s perfect for grating over your favorite dishes – like pasta, fish, or vegetables – thanks to its finely grated texture that blends perfectly into any recipe. Add some tangy cheese goodness to your dinner table tonight with Kraft Parmesan & Romano Grated Cheese!
What do people like?
– Adds flavor and complexity to any dish. Slightly too salty but don’t add salt to the dish when using Parmesan cheese.
– Easy to sprinkle on ingredients
– High-quality ingredients at an affordable price.
– Delicious flavors that are sure to please your taste buds.
5. Jack
If you’re looking to switch up your pizza recipe, Monterey Jack cheese is your perfect choice. This white, semi-firm cheese has a mild taste and melts like a dream. Known as Jack cheese, it can also come infused with peppers to create Pepper Jack.
Adding this cheese to your pizza with bold toppings like barbeque chicken or Southwestern flavors will give it an extra kick. Plus, the cheese will provide you with an Instagram-worthy cheese pull.
To achieve the best results, Spruce Eats recommends using Monterey Jack on pizzas with strongly flavored ingredients. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.
Perfect Jack Pizza Toppings
- BBQ Chicken
- Fresh basil
Our choice: Happy Belly’s Colby Jack Cheese Snack Sticks
For an on-the-go dairy snack, you can feel good about, try Happy Belly’s Colby Jack Cheese Snack Sticks. We partner with cheese makers and dairy farmers to ensure the highest quality standards are maintained.
These individually wrapped sticks provide a flavorful combination of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses in every serving.
Not only do they have a delicious, savory flavor, but they’re also a good source of calcium – so you’ll know you’re doing something great for your body when you eat them.
And if for any reason you’re not satisfied with your purchase, we’ll refund it within a year of purchase. Choose Happy Belly Colby Jack Cheese Snack Sticks for an easy and healthy snack option that’s full of flavor!
What do people like?
– Opening the package can be easy if you tear it from the opening near the red strip, with the black strip facing down.
– Save time with pre-grated cheese.
– Easier to melt than a block or shredded option.
– Cheaper than block or shredded cheese
6. Ricotta
Experience the fluffy and soft texture of ricotta cheese on your next pizza for a delightful and healthier option. This cheese is lower in fat and a decent source of protein, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor.
Its mild and slightly sweet flavor perfectly mellows out spicy ingredients, making it a versatile ingredient that goes well with various toppings.
Whether you prefer a simple pizza with olive oil and Italian herbs or a Bianca pizza loaded with ricotta, our high-quality cheese will take your pizza to the next level.
Its rich and creamy texture provides a nice contrast to other gooey cheeses like mozzarella or provolone. Discover the mild and slightly sweet flavor of this soft Italian cheese and elevate your pizza game.
Perfect Ricotta Pizza Toppings
- Juicy chicken
- Succulent shrimp
- Fresh basil
- Luscious tomatoes
- Charred spring onion
- Healthy broccoli
- Nutrient-rich kale
- Tender artichokes
- Flavorful spinach
- Roasted garlic for that extra kick
Our choice: Galbani Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese
Galbani Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese is the perfect choice when it comes to creating delectable recipes that your family is sure to love! This creamy, high-quality cheese is made with fresh whole milk and carefully crafted by Italian masters with the utmost attention to detail.
Rich in flavor, it will take your dishes to a whole other level of decadence, especially when used in lasagna, cheesecake, or cannolis. Plus, with no additives or preservatives, you can feel great about serving it up for your loved ones.
To make the perfect dish for any occasion, start by preheating your oven and combining 32 oz. of Galbani Ricotta cheese with 16 oz. of shredded “Great for Shredding” Mozzarella, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, minced parsley and basil, and 2 cloves garlic in a bowl.
Spread 1 cup of sauce in a 13×9” baking pan and layer 3 uncooked lasagna sheets at the bottom of the pan before adding one-quarter of the cheese mixture mixed with one cup of sauce. Repeat layers until all cheese mixture has been used up while ending on top with the last layer of sauce.
Cover with foil before baking for an hour then remove foil before topping with remaining 1/4 mozzarella and baking uncovered for 10 minutes. Once finished baking let stand for 15 minutes before cutting and serving!
So give your dishes an extra touch of deliciousness by cooking them up with the best cheese for pizza – you won’t regret it!
What do people like?
– Great value for the product and tastes great.
– Enjoy the thick, mild flavor with your favorite dishes.
– Ricotta with a light, creamy texture.
7. Goat Cheese
Goat cheese is a delicious and versatile addition to any pizza. While it may not melt like traditional cheeses, it offers a creamy texture and tangy flavor that is sure to impress.
Plus, it’s a healthier option with fewer calories and higher levels of vitamin A, vitamin B, and calcium than cow’s milk cheeses. For those who are lactose intolerant, goat cheese is a great alternative that won’t leave you missing out.
When incorporating goat cheese into your pizza toppings, it works well with sweet ingredients like caramelized onions. However, be sure to use it in place of meat or seafood rather than alongside them to avoid overwhelming its strong flavor.
With its reputation for being produced on smaller, more humane farms, goat cheese is also a great choice for animal lovers who prioritize fair farming practices.
Made from goat’s milk, this cheese is soft and creamy when young, but dries into a hard cheese as it ages. Its earthy and tart flavor adds a unique twist to any pizza. So give goat cheese a try on your next pizza creation, and be prepared to be pleasantly surprised.
Perfect Goat Cheese Pizza Toppings
- Caramelized onions
- Sweet figs
- Flavorful peppers
- Fresh arugula
- Fragrant basil
- Savory mushrooms
Our choice: Aphrodite Halloumi
Aphrodite Halloumi is the perfect cheese for those seeking a rich and savory taste. Crafted exclusively with pasteurized goat’s and ewe’s milk, salt, non-animal rennet, and dried mint, it offers an authentic flavor unlike any other.
We don’t include any hydrogenated fats, high-fructose corn syrup, or added MSG in our recipe, making Aphrodite Halloumi incredibly wholesome and nutritious.
One cubic inch contains 93 calories, 280mg of sodium, zero dietary fiber, 1g of sugars, and 6g of protein to support your health goals without sacrificing delicious flavor.
Our team sources each ingredient from carefully selected farmers around the world to ensure that every bite delivers genuine goodness. Try some delicious Aphrodite Halloumi today – you won’t be disappointed!
What do people like?
– This brand of halloumi is a family favorite due to its lack of cow’s milk and saltiness.
– It has a unique flavor and texture.
– A wonderful balance of salt and mildness
– Delicious flavor that is not too gamey.
8. Gruyere
Gruyere cheese, a staple on cheese boards and in rich fondue, is easily recognizable by its signature holes.
Made from whole cow’s milk, this hard cheese is packed with savory flavor and a delectable texture. Typically aged for six months, it develops a unique taste that’s a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty.
Although it’s on the pricier end, you won’t regret indulging in its decadent taste. Elevate your fancy pizza game by pairing it with fig preserves and fresh arugula or caramelized onions and bacon. Experience a flavor journey with every bite, starting with sweet and ending with nutty and earthy notes.
Perfect Gruyere Pizza Toppings
- Rich potatoes
- Flavorful peppers
- Savory prosciutto
- Spicy sausage
- Sweet caramelized onions
- Nutritious spinach
- Tangy red onions
- Creamy pesto
Our choice: Emmi’s Kaltbach Aged Gruyere
Emmi’s Kaltbach Aged Gruyere is a nutty and tangy cheese produced with the perfect combination of love and science. Crafted from raw, grass-fed cow’s milk, this cheese is aged in the sandstone caves of Kaltbach to give it an unrivaled minerality.
With a creamy texture contrasted by pronounced crunchy crystals characteristic of cave-aged Gruyere, this distinctive cheese offers an unforgettable taste experience. Enjoy the classic nuttiness coupled with fragrant fruit notes perfect for your next cheeseboard or melted in your favorite classic Swiss dish!
Produced using only the finest ingredients – raw part skim cows’ milk, cheese culture, salt, and enzymes – Emmi’s Kaltbach Aged Gruyere provides an unmatched flavor profile that has been praised by reviewers for its complexity and indulgent quality.
Come see why Emmi’s Kaltbach Aged Gruyere is a favorite among connoisseurs across Switzerland!
What do people like?
– The gruyere was excellent but too costly.
– This gruyere cheese has a very solid texture and good salt crystals, making it one of the best choices in the US.
– Stinky but versatile, this cheese adds funk and depth to sauces and melts beautifully.
9. Gouda
Gouda cheese, from the Netherlands, is a distinct and flavorful option for your culinary endeavors. Depending on how long the cheese has been aged, its texture and taste will vary.
To achieve a more robust flavor, opt for an aged selection of Gouda. Younger Gouda, while still a delicious option, has a milder flavor.
Aged Gouda presents with a firmer, crumbly texture and the occasional cheese crystal throughout that indicates a nicely aged cheese. Gouda pairs exceptionally well with pulled pork, pepperoni, and sausage for meat-heavy pizzas.
Gouda cheese is known for its semi-hard texture and one-of-a-kind flavor. As an ingredient on a pizza, it delivers a great depth of flavor, especially with its straight or smoked options.
Perfect Gouda Pizza Toppings
- Pulled pork
- Barbecue chicken
- Leafy spinach
- Earthy mushrooms
- Zesty red onions
- Fragrant garlic
- Savory olives
- Hearty sausage
- Bacon
Our choice: Dutch Gouda Cheese From Holland
Treat yourself to a real treat from Holland with our Dutch Gouda Cheese. Our red-waxed cheese has been expertly sourced from around the country to ensure export quality.
If you’re looking for a flavorful cheese that is neither too soft nor hard, Gouda is perfect; it fits right in the middle of the creaminess and flavor spectrum!
This delicious cheese can be enjoyed alone as a snack or made into your favorite recipe. Whether you use it in a sandwich or salad, one thing is sure – its pleasurable taste and creamy texture will not let you down! It also pairs excellently with grapes and apples, making this Dutch gem an all-around star!
Made from pasteurized cow’s milk, each item we cut and wrap comes in one-pound blocks. If you’re looking for more, though, don’t worry: reach out and we will be happy to provide a full 10lb form of cheese upon special request!
Try Dutch Gouda Cheese From Holland today – it’s tasty enough to keep you coming back for seconds!
What do people like?
– Delicious cheese with outstanding packaging and quality control
– Excellent customer service from the seller.
– Very creamy and flavorful Gouda.
Conclusion
To wrap it up, when it comes to selecting the best cheese for pizza, you can’t go wrong with any of the nine varieties listed above. Every cheese brings a unique flavor and texture to the table that will make your pizza experience enjoyable in its delightful way.
From creamy mozzarella to robust gorgonzola, being mindful of the cheese you choose is just as important as the ingredients you include on top.
With all these possibilities, take some time to become familiar with each type of cheese, and then feel free to use your newfound knowledge in testing and experimenting with new recipes! Who knows—perhaps your creative combo could be next week’s crowd favorite!
Thanks for reading our article about the Best cheese for pizza. If you want to know more information, visit our website here.
References:
3 Ways to Make Easy Pizza – wikiHow
I’m Vance Douglas, and I love making pizza. In fact, I love it so much that I decided to build my own oven to make it in. It’s a brick oven that I made myself, and it’s the best pizza oven you’ll ever find.
Making pizza is a passion of mine, and I’m always looking for new ways to make it even better. I’ve been making pizza for years, and I continue to learn more about the art every day. My goal is to create the perfect pizza, and I’m getting closer and closer every time.