Four Cheese Pizza
A cheese lover's dream, this authentic Quattro Formaggi pizza features a glorious blend of mozzarella, parmesan, ricotta, and gorgonzola melted over a classic, chewy crust. Brushed with garlic-infused olive oil instead of a traditional tomato sauce, this pizza allows the rich, complex flavors of the cheeses to shine. Perfect for a decadent and satisfying meal.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Pizza Dough
- b.In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
- c.Add the warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix with a spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
- d.Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- e.Form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Let the Dough Rise
- b.Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 60-90 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Preheat Oven and Prepare Toppings
- b.About 30 minutes before baking, place a pizza stone or an inverted heavy-duty baking sheet in your oven.
- c.Preheat the oven to its highest setting, typically 500°F (260°C). A very hot oven is key for a great crust.
- d.In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil with the minced garlic. Set aside.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Shape and Assemble the Pizza
- b.Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release the air. On a floured surface, stretch or roll the dough into a 12-inch circle.
- c.Carefully transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper or a pizza peel lightly dusted with cornmeal.
- d.Brush the surface of the dough with the garlic-infused olive oil, leaving a 1/2-inch border for the crust.
- e.Dollop the ricotta cheese evenly over the oiled surface.
- f.Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, and crumbled gorgonzola over the top.
- g.Season with a pinch of freshly ground black pepper.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Bake and Serve
- b.Carefully slide the pizza (on the parchment paper, if using) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
- c.Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheeses are melted, bubbly, and have some browned spots.
- d.Remove the pizza from the oven. Let it rest for 2-3 minutes before garnishing with fresh basil and optional red pepper flakes.
- e.Slice into 8 pieces and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the crispiest crust, a preheated pizza stone or steel is highly recommended.
- 2Bring the dough to room temperature before stretching; it will be much more pliable and less prone to tearing.
- 3Don't use a rolling pin if you want a puffy, airy crust. Gently stretch the dough by hand to preserve the air bubbles.
- 4Use low-moisture mozzarella to prevent the pizza from becoming watery.
- 5Let the pizza rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set and prevents the toppings from sliding off.
Adapt it for your goals.
Cheese Swap
Feel free to swap the cheeses based on your preference. Provolone, fontina, or asiago are excellent substitutes or additions.
Add a SauceAdd a Sauce
For a different flavor profile, spread a thin layer of white sauce (béchamel or alfredo) or pesto on the crust before adding the cheeses.
Gourmet ToppingsGourmet Toppings
Elevate your pizza by adding toppings like prosciutto (add after baking), caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze before serving.
Herb InfusionHerb Infusion
Mix dried oregano or Italian seasoning into the pizza dough for an extra layer of flavor in the crust.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Calcium
The combination of four different cheeses provides a significant amount of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
Excellent Source of Protein
Cheese is a high-quality protein source, crucial for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
Provides Energy
The carbohydrates from the pizza crust are a primary source of energy for the body, fueling your daily activities.
Frequently asked questions
A serving of this Four Cheese Pizza (approximately 2 slices) contains around 550-650 calories, depending on the exact types and amounts of cheese used.