Bagels with Cream Cheese

Recipe: Four Cheese (Quattro Formaggi) Pizza

The Four Cheese pizza, or Quattro Formaggi, is a rich and indulgent Italian classic featuring a harmonious blend of cheeses. Here’s how to make this creamy, cheesy delight at home.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ¾ cup warm water (100–110°F or 37–43°C)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Toppings:

• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ¼ cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled (or substitute blue cheese)
• ¼ cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: Fresh basil leaves or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours until it doubles in size.

2. Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to its maximum temperature (usually 475–500°F / 245–260°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to heat.

3. Roll Out the Dough:

1. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a thin, round shape.
2. Transfer the dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Assemble the Pizza:

1. Drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the dough as a base.
2. Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella, then sprinkle the Parmesan cheese.
3. Add dollops of ricotta cheese across the pizza and finish with crumbled Gorgonzola.

5. Bake the Pizza:

1. Carefully transfer the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet.
2. Bake for 7–10 minutes, or until the crust is golden, and the cheeses are melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve:

1. Remove the pizza from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves or parsley if desired.
2. Slice and serve hot for the ultimate cheesy indulgence!

Enjoy the creamy, tangy, and savory flavors of this Quattro Formaggi masterpiece. Buon appetito! 🍕