From pasta to pizza: can ricotta cheese find its way to your next slice?

Pizza is a beloved dish that can be enjoyed in countless variations. From classic Margherita to inventive specialty pizzas, there’s a style for every palate. But among the many ingredients that can grace a pizza, one that often raises questions is ricotta cheese. Can ricotta cheese be used on pizza? The answer is a resounding yes!

The Benefits of Using Ricotta Cheese on Pizza

Ricotta cheese offers several advantages when used on pizza:

• Creaminess: Ricotta’s smooth, creamy texture adds a luscious richness to the pizza, balancing out the salty and savory flavors of the other ingredients.
• Flavor: Ricotta has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the bold flavors of pizza without overpowering them.
• Moisture: Ricotta retains moisture well, preventing the pizza from drying out and making it more enjoyable.
• Versatility: Ricotta can be used as a base for white pizzas, combined with other cheeses in traditional pies, or even spread on top of cooked pizza for a creamy finish.

How to Use Ricotta Cheese on Pizza

Using ricotta cheese on pizza is straightforward:

1. Choose a high-quality ricotta: Opt for whole-milk ricotta for the best flavor and texture.
2. Drain excess moisture: Use a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to drain any excess moisture from the ricotta. This will prevent the pizza from becoming soggy.
3. Spread evenly: Spread the ricotta evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a slight border around the edges.
4. Add toppings: Top the ricotta with your favorite pizza toppings, such as sauce, cheese, vegetables, or meats.
5. Bake: Bake the pizza according to the recipe or desired doneness.

Ricotta Cheese Pizza Recipes

Here are a few delicious ricotta cheese pizza recipes to try:

• Classic Ricotta Pizza: Spread ricotta over the dough, top with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil.
• White Ricotta Pizza: Use ricotta as the base, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Ricotta and Prosciutto Pizza: Spread ricotta over the dough, top with thinly sliced prosciutto, arugula, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
• Ricotta and Sausage Pizza: Combine ricotta with ground sausage, sautéed onions, and mozzarella cheese.

Pairing Ricotta Cheese with Other Cheeses on Pizza

Ricotta cheese pairs well with a variety of other cheeses on pizza:

• Mozzarella: A classic combination that provides a balance of flavors and textures.
• Parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and a crispy crust.
• Fontina: A creamy, slightly tangy cheese that complements ricotta’s mildness.
• Gorgonzola: A blue cheese that adds a pungent, savory note to the pizza.

Summary: Elevate Your Pizza with Ricotta Cheese

Whether you’re a seasoned pizzaiolo or a home cook looking to create a flavorful masterpiece, incorporating ricotta cheese into your pizza is a surefire way to elevate the dish. Its creamy texture, mild flavor, and moisture-retaining properties make it an ideal ingredient for a variety of pizza styles. So, the next time you’re craving a delicious, satisfying pizza, don’t hesitate to add some ricotta cheese to the mix.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I use ricotta cheese instead of mozzarella on pizza?
A: Yes, ricotta can be used as a substitute for mozzarella on pizza. However, it will provide a creamier, less melty texture.

Q: How do I prevent ricotta cheese from becoming grainy on pizza?
A: Use high-quality whole-milk ricotta and drain any excess moisture before spreading it on the pizza.

Q: Can I freeze ricotta cheese pizza?
A: Yes, you can freeze ricotta cheese pizza. However, the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Q: What are some unique ways to use ricotta cheese on pizza?
A: Try spreading ricotta on top of cooked pizza for a creamy finish, or create a ricotta-based sauce by combining ricotta with herbs and spices.

Q: Is ricotta cheese healthy for pizza?
A: Ricotta cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamins. However, it is also relatively high in fat and calories.