The Best Cheese Combinations for a Perfectly Melty Pizza

Pizza is undeniably one of the most loved foods around the world, and Canadians are no exception to this adoration. A great pizza is all about balance – the crispy crust, flavorful sauce, and of course, the cheese. While mozzarella is the most common cheese used on pizza, there are countless other varieties that can elevate your pizza game. In this blog, we'll take you through the best cheese combinations for a perfectly melty pizza that will impress your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.

1. The Classic Combination: Mozzarella and Parmesan

Why it Works

For a classic, mouthwatering pizza, the combination of mozzarella and Parmesan is a winner. Mozzarella, known for its excellent meltability and creamy texture, is a staple in almost all pizza recipes. It provides that iconic stretchy, gooey cheese pull we all love. Parmesan, on the other hand, is a hard, nutty cheese that brings a salty and savory richness to the pizza.

Available as toppings at most pizza places in Fort St. John and across Canada, these two cheeses create the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The mozzarella melts beautifully, while the Parmesan adds a depth of flavor and a hint of tanginess that rounds out the overall taste. The slight sharpness of Parmesan complements the mild and creamy mozzarella, making each bite unforgettable.

Where to Use It

This classic duo works on almost any pizza, but it pairs exceptionally well with simple, Margherita-style pizzas or any pizza that features fresh vegetables, like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes.

2. The Gooey Dream: Mozzarella and Ricotta

Why it Works

For those who love a pizza that oozes with cheese, the combination of mozzarella and ricotta will give you the ultimate cheese pull experience. Mozzarella provides the necessary stretch and melt, while ricotta, with its creamy and slightly grainy texture, adds a layer of softness that makes each bite even more indulgent.

Ricotta is a mild, slightly sweet cheese that has a delicate flavor, making it a perfect pairing with mozzarella. It also adds a luscious creaminess that enhances the overall richness of the pizza. The result is a pizza that feels like a luxurious treat, with the mozzarella giving the pizza structure and the ricotta contributing a lighter, fluffier texture.

Where to Use It

This combination is fantastic on white pizzas (pizzas without tomato sauce) or even on more gourmet creations with spinach, garlic, and mushrooms. You can also top it off with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil for a heavenly finish.

3. The Bold Blend: Cheddar and Gouda

Why it Works

Cheddar and Gouda are two cheeses that add a delightful tang and smokiness to your pizza. Cheddar, a firm cheese with a sharp flavor, pairs beautifully with Gouda’s smooth, buttery taste. Gouda also has a mild smokiness, making it a great complement to the sharpness of cheddar. This combination creates a pizza that is rich in flavor with a more intense, savory kick.

Both cheeses have excellent meltability, although Gouda tends to be a bit creamier than cheddar. When combined, they form a gooey, flavorful topping that stands out. The cheddar adds a bit of a sharp bite, while the Gouda ensures the cheese remains silky and rich.

Where to Use It

Cheddar and Gouda are ideal for pizzas with hearty toppings, such as bacon, sausage, or pulled pork. They also work well on BBQ chicken pizzas or any pizza that features smoky flavors.

4. The Fancy Fusions: Brie and Goat Cheese

Why it Works

If you’re craving a gourmet pizza experience, then Brie and goat cheese should be on your radar. Both of these cheeses have distinct, sophisticated flavors that elevate any pizza to a whole new level.

Brie is a soft, creamy cheese with a subtle, earthy taste, and it melts beautifully, forming a luxurious base for your pizza. Goat cheese, on the other hand, is tangy, slightly sweet, and a bit crumbly. The two cheeses together create a wonderfully complex flavor profile that is both creamy and sharp, offering a great contrast to the savory elements of the pizza.

Where to Use It

Brie and goat cheese are best used on white pizzas or with toppings like caramelized onions, figs, arugula, and roasted garlic. You can also top your pizza with a drizzle of honey for a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

5. The Italian Delight: Mozzarella, Parmesan, and Pecorino Romano

Why it Works

If you’re looking for a cheese combination that screams "Italian," then the trio of mozzarella, Parmesan, and Pecorino Romano is a must-try. Each of these cheeses has its own unique characteristics that work together in perfect harmony.

Mozzarella is your go-to for that classic melty texture, while Parmesan adds richness, and Pecorino Romano brings a salty, sharp flavor that enhances the other cheeses. Pecorino Romano, made from sheep's milk, is more pungent and tangy compared to Parmesan, giving the pizza a bolder, more intense taste.

Where to Use It

This combination works wonderfully with traditional pizza toppings such as pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and olives. It also makes an excellent choice for more classic pizzas like a Neapolitan-style pizza or a pizza with fresh tomatoes and basil.

6. The Mediterranean Twist: Feta and Mozzarella

Why it Works

Feta cheese, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, brings a salty, briny flavor to the table. Paired with mozzarella, it creates a delicious contrast between the creamy, mild mozzarella and the tangy, crumbly feta. This combination works especially well for pizzas that feature Mediterranean ingredients, such as olives, cucumbers, and fresh herbs.

While mozzarella adds the melty texture we all crave, feta brings a sharper, tangier punch, making every bite more interesting. The combination of these two cheeses creates a harmonious balance between rich and sharp flavors.

Where to Use It

Feta and mozzarella are perfect for Greek-style pizzas or those topped with spinach, Kalamata olives, red onions, and sun-dried tomatoes. You can also add a handful of fresh oregano or basil to bring even more Mediterranean flair.

Visit Joe's Pizza Stone Today

Looking for the best pizza places in Fort St. John? Look no further! Our stone-baked pizzas are made from scratch with the freshest ingredients and baked to perfection on a hot stone for that irresistible crispy finish. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors, bold toppings, or want to create your own masterpiece, our menu has something for everyone. From meat lovers to veggie enthusiasts, we cater to every taste. Treat yourself to a stone-baked pizza experience that stands out from the rest!