Whether you run a traditional pizzeria, a takeaway, or offer pizza as a menu item, the type of cheese you choose has a major impact on quality, flavour, and customer satisfaction.

Historical Significance of Cheese in Pizza

The integration of cheese into pizza traces back to Naples, Italy, where modern pizza was born. In 1889, Raffaele Esposito crafted the Pizza Margherita combining tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil to represent the Italian flag’s colours. This creation not only honoured Queen Margherita of Savoy but also set a precedent for cheese as an essential pizza ingredient. As pizza migrated to the United States with Italian immigrants, the demand for mozzarella surged, solidifying its status as the quintessential pizza cheese.

Here’s everything you need to know about the types of cheese used in pizza and how to choose the right one for your operation.

Why Cheese Matters in Pizza?

Cheese is more than just a topping; it defines texture, flavour, meltability, and mouthfeel. The right cheese enhances sauce, crust, and toppings while adding that irresistible pull and golden finish.

Let’s break down the top types of cheese commonly used in pizza making.

1. Mozzarella

Overview: Mozzarella is the undisputed king of pizza cheese. Available in fresh, shredded or block formats, it offers excellent meltability and a mild, milky flavour.

Variants:

  • Low-Moisture Mozzarella: Ideal for high-heat ovens and longer shelf life.
  • Fresh Mozzarella: Moist, creamy, and traditional, especially in Neapolitan-style pizzas.

Best for: Traditional pizzas, Margherita and as a base for blended cheese mixes.

2. Cheddar

Overview: Though not traditionally Italian, cheddar is frequently blended with mozzarella for added sharpness and colour.

Advantages:

  • Stronger flavour profile
  • Enhances cheese coverage
  • Adds a golden hue when baked

Best for: Deep dish, American-style or fast-food pizzas that aim for a punchier taste.

3. Provolone

Overview: Provolone is a semi-hard Italian cheese with a smooth texture and slightly tangy taste.

Advantages:

  • Melts evenly
  • Offers a subtle, nutty undertone

Best for: Blending with mozzarella on gourmet or speciality pizzas.

4. Parmesan (and Grana Padano)

Overview: Used more as a finishing cheese, Parmesan adds depth and a salty, savoury kick.

Usage:

  • Typically grated on top after baking.
  • Can also be included in small amounts in cheese blends.

Best for: Elevated pizzas, premium menus, or as a garnish for authenticity.

5. Goats Cheese

Overview: Soft and tangy, goats cheese brings a creamy texture and unique flavour, perfect for gourmet or vegetarian offerings.

Advantages:

  • Distinct flavour
  • Pairs well with ingredients like caramelised onions or roasted veg.

Best for: Artisan pizzas and Mediterranean menus.

6. Blue Cheese

Overview: Known for its bold flavour, blue cheese adds character to pizzas with punchy toppings.

Tip: Use sparingly and balance with sweet or savoury toppings.

Best for: Gourmet pizzas, steak or mushroom-based builds.

7. Ricotta

Overview: Creamy and mild, ricotta is often spooned on top of pizzas rather than spread or shredded.

Best for: White pizzas (no tomato sauce), calzones and vegetarian styles.

8. Vegan Cheese

Overview: With rising demand for plant-based options, vegan cheese has become a menu essential.

Features:

  • Made from coconut oil, soy, nuts or starch.
  • Melts and stretches (to varying degrees)

Best for: Vegan menus and dietary-friendly builds.

Cheese Blends: Why Mix Matters?

Blending cheeses is a strategic move in foodservice. It improves flavour balance, melting characteristics and even cost-effectiveness.

Common blends include:

  • Mozzarella + Cheddar: Balanced flavour with vibrant colour.
  • Mozzarella + Provolone: Smooth stretch with a subtle tang.
  • Mozzarella + Monterey Jack: Mild, melty and ideal for quick-service restaurants.

At Magna Foodservice, we stock both single-origin cheeses and professionally pre-mixed pizza blends.

Real-Life Applications: Pizza Cheese by Sector

  • Takeaways: Blended shredded cheese options that offer fast melting and consistent coverage during peak service.
  • Restaurants: Use fresh mozzarella or artisan blends to elevate menu quality and stand out with signature pizza styles.
  • School & Canteen Catering: Low moisture, reduced-fat options that meet nutritional guidelines while maintaining taste.
  • Mobile Food Units & Events: Grated or sliced formats in resealable packs for convenience and portion control.

Key Factors When Choosing Cheese

  • Meltability — Does it stretch and brown properly?
  • Shelf Life — Especially important for busy, high-volume kitchens
  • Cost vs Yield — Consider coverage and wastage
  • Allergen or Dietary Suitability — Vegan, low-fat, lactose-free

Why Choose Magna Foodservice for Pizza Cheese?

We partner with leading dairy and plant-based cheese suppliers to ensure:

  • Competitive prices across formats.
  • Wide selection of blends and specialist cheeses.
  • Reliable delivery to match your service schedule.

The cheese you use makes all the difference in pizza. From classic mozzarella to bold blends and vegan options, there’s a cheese for every style and customer base. Trust Magna Foodservice to supply you with quality, consistency and expertise, helping your pizzas stand out on every plate.

Cheese stands as one of the most beloved and versatile foods worldwide, with its popularity deeply entrenched in various culinary traditions. Among its myriad applications, cheese’s role in pizza has been particularly significant, contributing to both its global appeal and the expansion of the cheese market.​

Global Cheese Consumption Trends

Cheese consumption has seen a steady rise globally, with Europe leading in per capita intake. Countries like Denmark and France report annual consumption rates exceeding 25 kilograms per person. This trend reflects cheese’s integral role in various cuisines and its adaptability to diverse dietary preferences.​

Cheese in the Pizza Restaurant Sector

In the pizza industry, cheese is not merely a topping but a cornerstone of product identity and customer satisfaction. Mozzarella remains the dominant choice due to its meltability and mild flavour, which complement a wide range of toppings. However, variations like provolone, cheddar and speciality cheeses are increasingly employed to create unique flavour profiles and cater to evolving consumer tastes.

The global pizza cheese market reflects this demand, with projections indicating significant growth in the coming years. This expansion is driven by the proliferation of pizza outlets, the popularity of frozen pizza products and the continuous innovation in cheese blends tailored for pizza applications.

The symbiotic relationship between cheese and pizza has not only shaped culinary practices but also influenced global food markets. As consumer preferences evolve and the pizza industry continues to innovate, cheese remains at the heart of this beloved dish, underscoring its enduring appeal and versatility.

Frequently Asked Questions: Types of Cheese Used in Pizza

1. What cheese is best for traditional Italian pizza?

Fresh mozzarella is the traditional choice for Italian pizzas, especially in Neapolitan and Margherita styles.

2. Can I use multiple cheeses on one pizza?

Yes! Blending cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar or provolone creates a more complex flavour and better melt.

3. What cheese gives the best stretch?

Low-moisture mozzarella is known for its excellent stretch and browning properties.

4. Is there a good vegan cheese for pizza?

Yes, many plant-based cheeses now melt and stretch similarly to dairy cheeses. Look for coconut-based or soy-free options for better melt.

5. Can I freeze pizza cheese?

Yes. Most shredded and block cheeses freeze well. Be sure to wrap tightly and defrost in the fridge before use.

6. What’s the difference between pizza mozzarella and regular mozzarella?

Pizza mozzarella often has lower moisture to prevent sogginess and improve shelf life, making it more suitable for commercial pizza ovens.

7. Does all pizza cheese have to be shredded?

No. While shredded cheese is common for convenience, fresh cheeses like mozzarella and ricotta are often used in slices or dollops.

8. What cheese works well on white pizzas?

Ricotta, mozzarella and goats cheese are popular on white pizzas, offering creamy texture and mild flavours.

9. Is cheddar commonly used on pizza?

Yes, especially in the UK and the US. It’s often blended with mozzarella for added flavour and colour.

10. Where can I buy professional-grade pizza cheese?

Magna Foodservice supplies a wide variety of pizza cheese types and blends for every foodservice need.