Parmesan Pizza Perfection: Can You Sprinkle Magic On Your Pie?
What To Know
- Grated parmesan adds a crispy crunch to the surface, while shaved parmesan provides a creamy, buttery texture.
- Use a creamy bechamel sauce instead of tomato sauce and add shaved parmesan for a rich and decadent white pizza.
- The amount of parmesan cheese you add is up to your preference, but a good starting point is 1/4 cup of grated cheese per 12-inch pizza.
Yes, you can absolutely put parmesan cheese on pizza! Parmesan, with its sharp and nutty flavor, adds a touch of umami and texture to your favorite pizza. Whether you prefer it grated on top or sprinkled after baking, parmesan elevates the taste and appearance of any pizza.
Benefits of Adding Parmesan to Pizza
- Adds Flavor: Parmesan’s distinctive taste enhances the overall flavor profile of the pizza, complementing the other toppings and sauce.
- Enhances Texture: Grated parmesan adds a crispy crunch to the surface, while shaved parmesan provides a creamy, buttery texture.
- Provides Umami: Parmesan is rich in glutamates, which contribute to its savory and umami flavor, making it an excellent addition to any pizza.
- Improves Visual Appeal: The bright yellow color of parmesan adds a visually appealing contrast to the pizza, making it more appetizing.
When to Add Parmesan to Pizza
- During Baking: Sprinkling grated parmesan over the pizza before baking allows it to melt and create a crispy crust.
- After Baking: Shaving parmesan over the finished pizza adds a touch of creamy richness and enhances the flavor without overpowering the other toppings.
How to Use Parmesan on Pizza
- Grated Parmesan: Use a fine grater to create a fine powder of parmesan. Sprinkle it evenly over the pizza before baking.
- Shaved Parmesan: Use a vegetable peeler to create thin, wide shavings of parmesan. Drape them over the pizza after baking.
- Parmesan Cream Sauce: Combine grated parmesan with milk or cream to create a creamy sauce that can be drizzled over the pizza.
Parmesan Pizza Variations
- Classic Italian Pizza: Top your pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and grated parmesan for a traditional Italian flavor.
- White Pizza: Use a creamy bechamel sauce instead of tomato sauce and add shaved parmesan for a rich and decadent white pizza.
- Truffle Parmesan Pizza: Infuse your pizza with truffle oil and top with shaved parmesan for an earthy and luxurious experience.
- BBQ Chicken Parmesan Pizza: Combine BBQ sauce, grilled chicken, and grated parmesan for a smoky and savory twist on a classic.
Parmesan Cheese Pairing Tips
- Mozzarella: Parmesan pairs perfectly with mozzarella, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
- Pecorino Romano: For a more intense flavor, use pecorino romano instead of parmesan.
- Asiago: Asiago’s nutty and slightly sweet flavor complements parmesan well, adding a touch of complexity.
- Fontina: Fontina’s mild and creamy flavor provides a smooth contrast to parmesan’s sharpness.
Parmesan Pizza with Spinach and Mushrooms
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Spread tomato sauce evenly over the pizza crust.
3. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
4. Top with spinach and mushrooms.
5. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the toppings.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Parmesan Pizza with Roasted Garlic and Honey
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 head of garlic, cloves separated
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss garlic cloves with olive oil and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Remove the roasted garlic from the oven and squeeze the cloves into a small bowl.
4. Drizzle honey over the roasted garlic and stir to combine.
5. Spread the roasted garlic mixture over the pizza crust.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the garlic.
7. Top with grated parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use any type of parmesan cheese on pizza?
A: Yes, you can use any type of parmesan cheese, but the best options are Parmigiano-Reggiano or Grana Padano.
Q: How much parmesan cheese should I add to my pizza?
A: The amount of parmesan cheese you add is up to your preference, but a good starting point is 1/4 cup of grated cheese per 12-inch pizza.
Q: Can I substitute parmesan cheese with another type of cheese?
A: Yes, you can substitute parmesan cheese with pecorino romano, asiago, or fontina cheese.