Recipe: Quattro Formaggi Pizza
Introduction
Quattro Formaggi Pizza, also known as Four Cheese Pizza, is a delicious Italian dish that combines the flavors of four different types of cheese. This mouthwatering pizza is a favorite among cheese lovers and is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make your very own Quattro Formaggi Pizza.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients you will need:
Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce:
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings:
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup fontina cheese, shredded
- ½ cup gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil while stirring. Once the dough starts to come together, transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small saucepan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant. Pour in the tomato sauce and season with dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a round shape on a floured surface. Transfer the dough onto a baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread half of the sauce evenly over each pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
Step 4: Add the Cheese Toppings
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, fontina, gorgonzola, and grated parmesan cheeses over the sauce, distributing them evenly. Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese according to your preference.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Place the pizzas in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once cooked, remove the pizzas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Cut into slices and serve hot.
Conclusion
Quattro Formaggi Pizza is a delightful combination of four different cheeses that brings a burst of flavor to your taste buds. With this simple recipe, you can easily recreate this classic Italian dish in the comfort of your own home. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or as a party appetizer, this cheesy delight is sure to impress your family and friends.