Four Cheese Pizza

Pizza is a universal favorite, and for good reason. It’s versatile, satisfying, and brings people together around a shared meal. Among the many varieties of pizza, the Four Cheese Pizza stands out for its rich and complex flavors. This pizza combines the creaminess of mozzarella, the sharpness of cheddar, the pungency of blue cheese, and the nuttiness of parmesan. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast or simply looking for a comforting, delicious meal, this Four Cheese Pizza is sure to hit the spot.

Making pizza at home can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to customize it to your liking and enjoy fresh, hot slices straight from the oven. This recipe will guide you through the process step by step, ensuring that even if you’re new to pizza-making, you can achieve a mouth-watering result. So, let’s get started on creating this cheesy masterpiece!

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar

For the topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.
4. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
6. Prepare the Pizza: Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface.
7. Assemble the Pizza: Transfer one rolled-out dough onto a piece of parchment paper. Spread 1/2 cup of pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle half of each cheese over the sauce.
8. Bake the Pizza: Carefully transfer the pizza (with the parchment paper) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
9. Repeat: Repeat the process with the second piece of dough.
10. Serve: Let the pizzas cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

How to Prepare

Preparing a Four Cheese Pizza involves several steps, but each one is straightforward. Start by making the dough. This requires mixing yeast with warm water and sugar to activate it, then combining it with flour, salt, and olive oil. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and let it rise until it doubles in size.

While the dough is rising, prepare your cheeses. Shred the mozzarella and cheddar, crumble the blue cheese, and grate the parmesan. Once the dough is ready, roll it out and add your toppings. Baking at a high temperature ensures a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.

Preparation Time

• Active Preparation: 30 minutes
• Dough Rising: 1 hour
• Baking Time: 10-12 minutes per pizza
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 18g

Storage Conditions

To store leftover Four Cheese Pizza, let it cool to room temperature. Then, place the slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pizza. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. The pizza can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the slices for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use a store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough to save time. Just follow the package instructions for preparation.

2. Can I add other toppings to this pizza?

Absolutely! While the four cheeses are the highlight, you can add toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or spinach.

3. What can I use instead of blue cheese?

If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can substitute it with gorgonzola or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.

4. How do I prevent the pizza from sticking to the oven?

Using parchment paper is a great way to prevent sticking. You can also dust the pizza peel or baking sheet with cornmeal before placing the dough on it.

5. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

This Four Cheese Pizza recipe is not just about following steps; it’s about embracing the process and savoring the result. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply to indulge yourself, this pizza is sure to impress. The satisfaction of creating a delicious meal from scratch is immense, and the flavors of this pizza make every minute spent in preparation worthwhile.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the art of pizza-making. With this Four Cheese Pizza recipe, you’re in for a treat that combines simplicity, flavor, and the joy of homemade cooking. Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!