Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of Quattro Formaggi Pizza. This Italian classic combines four distinct cheeses on a crispy, golden crust, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for pizza lovers. With mozzarella, gorgonzola, goat cheese, and parmesan, this pizza offers a harmonious balance of creamy, tangy, and sharp flavors. Whether for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this pizza is sure to impress.
Why Make Quattro Formaggi Pizza?
This homemade four-cheese pizza is not just about flavor—it’s an experience. The blend of cheeses creates a symphony of tastes, from the creaminess of mozzarella to the tang of gorgonzola, with the sharpness of parmesan and the rich depth of goat cheese. Plus, making it from scratch allows you to control every step, ensuring the perfect pizza for you and your loved ones. It’s the ultimate choice for anyone craving authentic, Italian-style pizza!
How to Make Quattro Formaggi Pizza
Making Quattro Formaggi Pizza from scratch is easier than you think! With a bit of patience for the dough to rise, you’ll have a warm, cheesy pizza in no time.
Ingredients:
For the Pizza Dough:
- 4 cups Italian 00 flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 2 teaspoons fast-action dried yeast (7g)
- 1⅓ cups (320ml) lukewarm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pinch salt
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- Semolina or extra flour (for dusting)
For the Toppings:
- 250g (2 balls) mozzarella, torn into pieces
- 100g (½ cup) gorgonzola, crumbled
- 120g (½ cup) goat cheese, crumbled
- 40g (½ cup) freshly grated parmesan
- 200g (½ cup) passata (crushed strained tomatoes)
- Black pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pizza Dough:
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt (ensure the salt is placed away from the yeast to prevent interference with rising). Create a well in the center, then pour in the lukewarm water and olive oil. Stir to form a rough dough. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour until it comes together. - Knead the Dough:
Lightly dust a clean surface with flour and knead the dough for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. To check if it’s ready, gently press your finger into the dough—if it springs back, it’s perfect! - Let the Dough Rise:
Coat a large bowl with a ½ tablespoon of olive oil, then place the dough inside. Brush the top of the dough with olive oil and cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 3–4 hours, or until it has tripled in size. - Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) or its highest setting. Place baking trays or a pizza stone inside the oven to heat up. - Shape the Pizza:
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 2 or 4 pieces, depending on your desired pizza size. Lightly dust a surface with flour and roll each portion into a thin round or rectangle. Alternatively, stretch the dough using your hands to fit your baking tray. - Assemble the Pizza:
Carefully remove the hot baking tray from the oven and dust it with semolina or flour. Transfer the rolled-out dough onto the tray. Spread a thin layer of passata (tomato sauce) evenly over the base. Then, distribute the four cheeses evenly across the pizza. - Bake the Pizza:
Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown. The crust should also turn crispy and golden. - Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it sit for 2 minutes before slicing. If desired, season with black pepper for an extra kick. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Quattro Formaggi Pizza
Serve this delicious cheese pizza hot and fresh from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a light arugula salad, drizzled with balsamic dressing. The richness of the cheeses and the crispiness of the crust make it perfect for any casual gathering or special dinner.
How to Store Quattro Formaggi Pizza
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. While the pizza is best enjoyed fresh, you can reheat it in a hot oven to restore some of the original crispiness.
Tips for the Best Quattro Formaggi Pizza
- Use a Pizza Stone: For extra crispiness, bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone instead of a baking tray.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to try different cheeses like Fontina, Taleggio, or Ricotta to create new flavor profiles.
- Allow for Extra Rising: Let the dough rest overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor and better texture.
Variations to Try
Want to change things up? Try a white Quattro Formaggi pizza (Pizza Bianca) by skipping the tomato sauce and instead drizzling olive oil over the base. You can also add toppings like arugula, prosciutto, or even fresh figs for an exciting twist!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use pre-made pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought dough works great if you’re short on time, though making your dough from scratch provides the best results. - What can I serve with Quattro Formaggi Pizza?
Pair it with a fresh arugula salad and balsamic vinegar for a balanced, refreshing side dish. - Can I make a Quattro Formaggi pizza without tomato sauce?
Absolutely! For a white pizza, simply skip the tomato sauce and drizzle a bit of olive oil over the crust before adding the cheeses.
A Perfect Pizza for Cheese Lovers
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a cheesy indulgence, Quattro Formaggi Pizza is the answer. The combination of mozzarella, gorgonzola, goat cheese, and parmesan on a crispy crust is truly a match made in pizza heaven. Enjoy this classic Italian pizza, and get ready for a mouthwatering experience!