The Order of Toppings on a Pizza: Debunking Cheese Myths and Revealing Pizza Making Secrets

When it comes to pizza, perhaps no question stirs more debate than the placement of cheese. Is cheese always the first topping, or can you tweak the order to suit your preferences? In this article, we will explore the typical orders of toppings and uncover the reasons behind these sequences. Join us as we delve into the nuances of pizza making and the often overlooked importance of the cheese placement on your favorite pizza.

Introduction to Pizza Topping Orders

When crafting a pizza, the order of toppings can significantly impact the final product. Different delivery houses and pizza makers may have their own preferred sequences. One method involves starting with the dough, followed by toppings and cheese. Another common approach is to begin with a layer of sauce, then cheese, and finally the toppings. However, many pizza purists, including those at Pizza Hut, prefer a double-layered cheese approach to ensure a bed of cheese under the toppings.

The Pizza Hut Method

At Pizza Hut, the sequence typically follows these steps:

Dough Sauce (1 cup) Bottom layer of cheese (1 cup) Sliced meats Ground meat Vegetables (1 cup) Top layer of cheese (1 cup)

For a pizza with just sliced meats, the sequence might change to:

Dough Sauce (2 cups) Cheese (2 cups) Meats

Regardless of the specific ingredients, the key is to ensure adequate cheese coverage, particularly under the toppings, as it acts as a 'cement' bed, helping to keep the non-cheese toppings in place and preventing them from sliding off the pizza.

Typical Order of Toppings and Cheese Placement

Option 1: Dough, Sauce, Cheese, Toppings, Cheese

This is a common method where:

Dough Sauce Cheese Toppings Cheese

This method ensures a layer of melted cheese under each topping, creating a cohesive final product.

Option 2: Dough, Sauce, Toppings, Cheese

A simpler option involves:

Dough Sauce Toppings Cheese

In this sequence, the cheese is added last to ensure it melts perfectly and does not overcook the other ingredients.

The Case for Cheese First

While some pizza makers prefer to start with the dough, many pizza enthusiasts argue that cheese should be the first topping. This is because cheese provides a bed of flavor and texture under the other ingredients, ensuring that everything stays in place during cooking. Additionally, a layer of cheese on the bottom helps distribute the heat more evenly, resulting in better-cooked toppings.

A Personal Pizza Making Technique

When making a pizza at home, you can mix up the toppings based on your taste preferences. Here is a typical technique followed by many food experts:

Start with the dough on the baking tray or peel. Spread the sauce (tomato or white) evenly over the dough. Add a first layer of cheese. This is usually mozzarella or a blend of cheeses. Place the meat toppings first, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Scatter vegetables around more casually, being careful not to overcrowd the pizza. Save the cheese for last, adding a final layer that will melt during cooking, adhering to the toppings. To ensure the veggie toppings stay fresh and crisp, keep them under a layer of cheese. Bake the pizza in a hot oven (450-500°F) for about 13 minutes, watching closely to ensure the cheese just starts to turn golden brown before removing from the oven.

By following these steps, you can achieve a perfectly cooked pizza with evenly distributed toppings and a delicious sauce flavor.

Conclusion

While the order of toppings can vary, cheese is often a crucial ingredient that should be carefully placed to ensure a delicious and cohesive pizza. Whether you prefer a double layer of cheese or a single layer, the key is to remember that cheese not only adds flavor but also provides a bed for the other ingredients to adhere to. Feel free to experiment with different sequences and ingredients to create your perfect pizza.