Name: Four-Cheese Pizza
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb pizza dough; 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup gorgonzola cheese, crumbled; 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup marinara sauce; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of Four-Cheese Pizza, where gooey mozzarella embraces tangy gorgonzola, creamy ricotta, and sharp parmesan. The warmth radiates from the oven, filling your kitchen with an aroma that could make even the strongest-willed person weak in the knees. Every bite is a cheese lover’s dream come true!

This pizza isn’t just food; it’s an experience that transforms any ordinary day into a cheesy celebration. Whether you’re throwing a National Cheese Day party or simply indulging on a quiet movie night, this dish brings joy and comfort that’s hard to resist.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Four-Cheese Pizza is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings
Its rich flavor profile will delight cheese lovers of all ages
The visual appeal of melted cheese bubbling on a golden crust is irresistible
It’s versatile enough for customization based on your favorite toppings or dietary preferences

I remember the first time I made this masterpiece; my friends were practically fighting over the last slice! They still talk about it whenever we gather.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for fresh mozzarella for its creamy texture and meltability that makes every bite heavenly.
Gorgonzola Cheese: This blue cheese adds a bold flavor; just a little goes a long way in enhancing the overall taste.
Ricotta Cheese: Use whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it balances out the stronger flavors of the other cheeses beautifully.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan on top for an irresistible savory crunch and depth of flavor.
Tomato Sauce: A simple marinara sauce works best; choose one that’s rich and flavorful to complement the cheeses.
Fresh Basil Leaves: These vibrant green leaves add freshness and aroma; sprinkle them on right before serving for a burst of flavor.
Olive Oil: Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil before baking for added richness and to enhance flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). This high temperature ensures that your pizza crust turns perfectly crisp while keeping the cheese gooey.

Prepare the dough: Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s about 12 inches wide. Transfer it to a pizza stone or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Spread the sauce: Evenly spread tomato sauce over the dough, leaving about half an inch around the edges. Don’t be shy; this is where you build flavor!

Add the cheeses: Start layering by sprinkling mozzarella across the base. Then dollop ricotta in random spots, followed by crumbling gorgonzola and finally grating parmesan on top.

Drizzle with olive oil: Lightly drizzle extra virgin olive oil over everything, which not only adds flavor but also helps achieve that gorgeous golden-brown finish.

Bake to perfection: Slide your pizza into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye out until the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.

Garnish with basil: Once baked, remove your pizza from the oven. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over it while it’s still hot to release their aromatic oils.

Slice and serve: Allow your pizza to cool for a few moments before slicing into wedges. Serve warm—you’ll want everyone gathered around when they see this beauty!

Enjoying this Four-Cheese Pizza means indulging in layers of flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Plus, with National Cheese Day just around the corner, there’s no better time to whip up this cheesy delight!

You Must Know

This delicious Four-Cheese Pizza isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience!
The melty cheese, crispy crust, and delightful aroma create a feast for all senses
Don’t forget to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor
Your taste buds will thank you!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to a blazing 475°F (245°C). Roll out the pizza dough while the oven heats, then layer your four cheeses in this order: mozzarella, gorgonzola, parmesan, and ricotta. Bake for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Four-Cheese Pizza with favorite toppings like fresh basil or spicy pepperoni. For an extra kick, drizzle chili oil over the top after baking. Experiment and make it uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Let your dough rest for at least 30 minutes before stretching; this makes it easier to work with
Always preheat your pizza stone or baking sheet for that perfect crust
Use room temperature cheeses for even melting and texture

I remember hosting a pizza night with friends, and the Four-Cheese Pizza stole the show! They couldn’t stop raving about how cheesy and delicious it was—definitely a crowd-pleaser that brought everyone together.

FAQs

FAQ

What are the best cheeses for Four-Cheese Pizza?

For ideal flavor, combine mozzarella, gorgonzola, parmesan, and ricotta.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare pizza dough up to two days in advance; just refrigerate it.

How do I achieve a crispy crust?

Preheat your oven properly and use a pizza stone or hot baking sheet.