Four Cheese from PizzaExpress features a rich blend of mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and gorgonzola cheeses melted over a thin, crispy pizza crust, delivering a creamy, savory, and indulgent flavor experience with a golden-bubbly cheese topping.
Equipments
- Oven
- Pizza stone or baking tray
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowl
- Cheese grater
- Pizza cutter
- Ladle or spoon (for sauce)
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Pizza dough
- Olive oil
- Mozzarella cheese
- Cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Gorgonzola cheese
- Tomato sauce
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic (optional)
- Fresh basil (optional)
Selecting high-quality mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and gorgonzola cheeses significantly enhances the authentic taste of your pizza. Freshly grated parmesan offers a sharper flavor compared to pre-grated varieties, while the creaminess of gorgonzola adds a unique tang. Use ripe, flavorful tomato sauce seasoned simply with salt and black pepper to complement the cheese blend without overpowering it. Olive oil helps achieve the ideal crispy crust when brushed lightly on the pizza dough before baking. Your homemade Four Cheese from PizzaExpress copycat menu will capture the creamy, savory essence of the original with this balanced combination of premium ingredients.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to maximum temperature (250°C/482°F or highest setting).
- Place pizza stone or baking tray in oven to heat.
- On a floured cutting board, roll out pizza dough into a thin round shape using rolling pin.
- Transfer rolled dough to parchment paper.
- Lightly brush dough with olive oil.
- Spread tomato sauce evenly over dough with ladle or spoon.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese evenly over sauce.
- Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over mozzarella.
- Add shaved or grated parmesan cheese.
- Crumble gorgonzola cheese over the other cheeses.
- Optionally, add minced garlic for extra flavor.
- Slide pizza (with parchment) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking tray.
- Bake for 8–12 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove pizza from oven.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Slice with pizza cutter and serve hot.
Substitution
The Four Cheese from PizzaExpress copycat menu uses a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and gorgonzola cheeses to replicate the original's rich, creamy flavor on a crisp thin crust. If you don't have gorgonzola, blue cheese or a mild goat cheese can be substitutes to maintain a similar tangy depth. When preparing your dough, make sure it is rolled evenly to achieve a uniform crispiness during baking on a pizza stone or tray. Your choice of tomato sauce can be adjusted for thickness and seasoning to balance the strong cheese flavors. Using a cheese grater ensures even melting, and limiting garlic or fresh basil keeps the focus on the four cheese blend.
Tips
Ensure your oven and pizza stone or baking tray are fully preheated to achieve a crispy crust and evenly melted cheeses. When rolling out your dough, dust the surface with flour to prevent sticking and maintain a thin, even thickness for optimal baking. Distribute each cheese layer evenly to avoid uneven melting and flavor concentration. You should monitor the pizza closely in the last few minutes to prevent the gorgonzola from burning while achieving that perfect golden bubbly top.
Nutritions
The Four Cheese pizza from PizzaExpress is calorie-dense due to the combination of mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and gorgonzola cheeses, which provide high levels of protein, calcium, and saturated fats. The thin, crispy crust made from pizza dough contributes carbohydrates and fiber, while olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Tomato sauce offers vitamins A and C along with antioxidants like lycopene. Your intake of sodium may be elevated because of the cheese and seasoning, so moderation is key when enjoying this indulgent dish.
Storage
Store any leftover Four Cheese pizza in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate promptly and consume within 2-3 days to ensure the best flavor and texture of the mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and gorgonzola cheeses. When reheating, use an oven or pizza stone to restore the crispy crust and melty cheese experience for your next meal.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap gorgonzola with blue cheese or goat cheese for a different tangy profile, while still maintaining the four-cheese richness. Incorporate a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili flakes into the tomato sauce to add a subtle smoky or spicy kick. Instead of rolling the dough thin, try creating a slightly thicker crust for a chewier texture that holds the cheese toppings better. If you prefer a crispier cheese topping, broil the pizza for the last 1-2 minutes of baking to achieve golden-bubbly cheese without overcooking the crust.
Allergies
Four Cheese from PizzaExpress contains multiple dairy cheeses, including mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and gorgonzola, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with milk or lactose intolerance. The pizza dough and sauce could also contain gluten and other allergens like garlic, risking sensitivities in people with wheat allergies or garlic intolerance. If you have known food allergies, carefully reviewing ingredient lists and informing restaurant staff is essential to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
PizzaExpress's Four Cheese menu is celebrated for its perfectly balanced blend of mozzarella, parmesan, gorgonzola, and smoked cheddar, creating a rich and creamy flavor profile that appeals to cheese lovers. The crisp, thin crust acts as the ideal base, enhancing the fusion of savory cheeses without overpowering them. You can replicate this delectable combination at home, ensuring a fresh, customizable pizza experience that rivals the restaurant's quality. Recreating this recipe allows you to enjoy the indulgent taste while controlling ingredients and tailoring it to your preferences.