Four Cheese Pizza (Quattro Formaggi): A Creamy, Cheesy Masterpiece

When it comes to indulgence, few dishes rival the creamy, melty glory of a Four Cheese Pizza. Known in Italy as Quattro Formaggi, this pizza celebrates cheese in all its gooey, golden, flavor-packed glory. With its combination of sharp, mild, creamy, and tangy cheeses, it’s a favorite for cheese lovers who want something more decadent than a classic Margherita.

I first discovered Four Cheese Pizza at a small trattoria in Florence. It wasn’t overloaded with toppings or buried in sauce. Instead, it had a crispy, thin crust topped with four perfectly balanced cheeses—each melting into the next to create a rich, luxurious bite that was somehow both comforting and refined. That experience sparked years of testing and perfecting a home version, and this recipe brings that same depth of flavor to your kitchen, no wood-fired oven required.

Why You’ll Love This Four Cheese Pizza

• Ultra cheesy and creamy without feeling heavy

• Balanced blend of cheeses that complement each other beautifully

• Elegant yet comforting—perfect for date night or casual dinners

• Simple ingredients, bold flavor

This is the pizza you make when you want something special—whether you’re feeding guests, treating yourself, or upgrading your regular pizza night.

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What Is a Four Cheese Pizza?

Quattro Formaggi translates to “four cheeses” in Italian. It’s typically made with a base of mozzarella and then layered with three other cheeses that bring richness, sharpness, and funk to the mix.

Common Cheese Combinations:

• Mozzarella: The foundation for stretch and melt.

• Gorgonzola or blue cheese: Adds tang and depth.

• Parmesan or Pecorino: Nutty, salty, and sharp.

• Fontina, ricotta, provolone, or goat cheese: For creaminess and meltability.

No tomato sauce is traditionally used—it’s a white pizza that lets the cheese shine.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough (Makes 2 medium pizzas):

• 3½ cups (450g) all-purpose or bread flour

• 1¼ cups (300ml) warm water

• 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Or use high-quality store-bought dough to save time.

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For the Cheese Topping (Per Pizza):

• 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella

• ½ cup shredded fontina or provolone

• ¼ cup crumbled gorgonzola or blue cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano

• Optional: ¼ cup dollops of ricotta (for added creaminess)

Other Ingredients:

• Olive oil, for brushing the crust

• Fresh rosemary or thyme leaves (optional)

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Cornmeal or flour (for dusting)

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How to Make Four Cheese Pizza

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit until foamy, about 5–10 minutes.

2. Add the flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth.

4. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Divide dough into 2 equal balls, cover, and let rest for 15 minutes before stretching.

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Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

Grate, crumble, or slice your cheeses ahead of time. Combine them in a bowl or keep them separate for layering. Be sure to use cheeses at room temperature so they melt evenly.

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Step 3: Preheat Your Oven and Stone

Preheat your oven to 475–500°F (245–260°C) for at least 30 minutes. If you have a pizza stone or steel, place it inside to heat thoroughly—this is key to getting a crispy crust.

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Step 4: Shape and Build the Pizza

1. Stretch or roll your dough into a 12–14 inch circle on a floured surface.

2. Transfer to a pizza peel or parchment-lined baking sheet dusted with cornmeal.

3. Brush the dough lightly with olive oil, especially around the edges.

4. Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly as your base.

5. Add fontina or provolone next, then dot with blue cheese and finish with Parmesan.

6. (Optional) Add small dollops of ricotta and a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme.

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Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Transfer the pizza to the hot oven (or directly onto the stone/steel). Bake for 8–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbling with golden spots.

Pro Tip: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra browning.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the pizza rest for 1–2 minutes. Sprinkle with black pepper and more fresh herbs if desired. Slice and serve while hot and melty.

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The Perfect Cheese Balance

The beauty of Four Cheese Pizza is in the contrast of flavors and textures:

• Mozzarella brings softness and stretch.

• Fontina or provolone adds creaminess and depth.

• Blue cheese gives bite and complexity.

• Parmesan sharpens the whole dish with nutty, salty notes.

Tip: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, substitute goat cheese or ricotta for a milder version.

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No Tomato Sauce? No Problem.

Four Cheese Pizza is traditionally a white pizza, meaning it doesn’t include tomato sauce. This allows the cheeses to melt directly onto the crust and showcase their unique flavors.

But if you’d prefer a hint of sauce, a thin layer of garlic cream sauce or pesto can work beautifully underneath the cheese.

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Delicious Variations to Try

Truffle Four Cheese Pizza

Drizzle with truffle oil after baking for luxurious, earthy flavor.

Spicy Four Cheese

Add red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers for heat.

Caramelized Onion & Four Cheese

Top with caramelized onions before baking for a sweet-savory balance.

Arugula-Topped Version

Add a handful of fresh arugula after baking for peppery brightness.

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Tips for Pizza Night Success

• Use high-heat cooking: A very hot oven mimics professional pizza ovens.

• Let your dough rest before stretching—it will be easier to work with.

• Use high-quality cheese: It makes a big difference in taste and texture.

• Avoid overloading: Too much cheese can make the pizza greasy and soggy.

• Preheat your stone or steel for at least 30 minutes to get a crisp crust.

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What to Serve with Four Cheese Pizza

Pair this rich, cheesy pizza with something light and fresh:

• Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Roasted vegetables (like asparagus or cherry tomatoes)

• Glass of dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or a light red (like Pinot Noir)

• Sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing balance

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Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Dough can be made and refrigerated for up to 48 hours.

• Cheese can be prepped and stored in airtight containers for quick assembly.

Leftover Storage:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: 375°F for 6–8 minutes on a baking sheet.

• Skillet: Reheat slices in a nonstick skillet with a lid for crisp bottoms and melty tops.

• Avoid microwaving to preserve the crust texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I freeze this pizza?

Yes! You can freeze unbaked assembled pizza or baked slices. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven from frozen or thaw first.

What if I don’t like blue cheese?

No problem—substitute with ricotta, goat cheese, or an extra sprinkle of provolone or fontina for a milder version.

Can I add tomato sauce?

While not traditional, a very thin layer of sauce or pesto can be added under the cheese if you prefer.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly grated cheese is best for melting. Pre-shredded options contain anti-caking agents that can affect melt and texture.

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Conclusion: A Cheesy Slice of Heaven

Four Cheese Pizza is a celebration of cheese in all its forms—creamy, sharp, tangy, and melty. It’s elegant enough for guests but simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re enjoying it with a glass of wine or feeding the whole family, this pizza delivers on comfort, flavor, and satisfying richness with every bite.

So next time you’re craving something beyond the ordinary, skip the takeout and make this cheesy masterpiece at home.

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