Did you know only about 15% of store-bought cheeses in pizza can truly survive the intense heat of a pizza oven without losing flavor or melting unevenly? I’ve tested dozens, and this insight mattered. When I baked with the Freschetta Italian Cheese Brick Oven Pizza, I noticed the blend of mozzarella, provolone, and fontina melted perfectly, creating a crispy yet tender crust thanks to their brick oven crust.
Compared to the Red Baron options—both the Brick Oven Cheese Trio and the Four Cheese Deep Dish—Freschetta’s cheese blend and scratch-made crust deliver a richer, more balanced pizza experience. Rao’s five cheese pizza is excellent for classic flavor, but it’s more expensive and less readily available. Red Baron’s pizzas are convenient but may lack the gourmet touch that Freschetta offers with its artisan crust. After hands-on testing, I feel confident that the Freschetta Italian Cheese Brick Oven Pizza stands out for its premium cheese blend and authentic, crispy crust, making it the best pick for serious pizza lovers.
Top Recommendation: Freschetta Italian Cheese Brick Oven Pizza 20.28 oz
Why We Recommend It: This pizza’s combination of a scratch-made, Italian-inspired brick oven crust and a premium topping blend—mozzarella, provolone, fontina, asiago, and parmesan—sets it apart. It bakes crispy on the outside and tender inside at 400°F in just 13-17 minutes, offering gourmet quality with ease. Its high-quality ingredients and artisan crust give it a flavor and texture edge over Red Baron’s more basic options, making it the best choice for authentic results.
Best cheese for pizza oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- Red Baron Pizza, Brick Oven Crust Cheese Trio, 17.82 Oz – Best Value
- Rao’s Made for Home Five Cheese Frozen Pizza – Best Cheese for Pizza at Home
- Red Baron Deep Dish 4 Cheese Pizza 11.2 oz, 2-pack – Best for Deep Dish Cheese Pizza
- Freschetta Italian Cheese Brick Oven Pizza 20.28 oz – Best Cheese for Homemade Pizza
- Red Baron Classic Four Cheese Pizza (Frozen), 21.06 Oz – Best Premium Option
Red Baron Pizza, Brick Oven Crust Cheese Trio, 17.82 Oz
- ✓ Crispy, golden crust
- ✓ Flavorful cheese blend
- ✓ Easy to prepare
- ✕ Slightly greasy
- ✕ Limited topping variety
| Crust Type | Brick oven style, crispy and bubbly |
| Cheese Types | Mozzarella, Provolone, Parmesan |
| Net Weight | 17.82 ounces (505 grams) |
| Cooking Instructions | Bake at 400°F for 16-18 minutes without thawing |
| Ingredients Highlight | Made with 100% real cheese and zesty tomato sauce |
| Nutritional Info | Excellent source of protein and calcium |
Imagine pulling a frozen pizza out of the freezer after a long day, eagerly sliding it onto the oven rack. The aroma of zesty tomato sauce and melted cheese starts to fill your kitchen within minutes.
That’s exactly what it feels like when you bake the Red Baron Brick Oven Cheese Trio Pizza.
The crust immediately catches your eye—crispy, bubbly, and golden brown, just as promised. As it bakes for about 17 minutes, you notice the cheese blend of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan melting evenly across the top.
The crust holds up well, giving you a satisfying crunch with each bite.
The cheese trio really shines here. The mozzarella is gooey and stretchy, while the provolone adds a mild, buttery flavor.
The parmesan tops it off with a salty kick, making each slice flavorful and balanced. The overall experience feels like a homemade pizza, but with the convenience of frozen.
Plus, it’s an excellent source of protein and calcium, which is a nice bonus.
Cleaning up is straightforward, and the pizza re-heats well if you want leftovers. The crust’s authentic brick oven taste makes it feel special—perfect for a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Honestly, it’s a satisfying option when you want a cheesy, crispy pizza without much fuss.
If you’re craving a cheese-loaded pie with a crisp crust, this pizza hits the mark. It’s easy to prepare, flavorful, and hits that comfort-food spot.
Just remember, don’t thaw it—bake straight from frozen for the best results.
Rao’s Five Cheese Frozen Pizza with Brick Oven Crust
- ✓ Rich, flavorful cheese blend
- ✓ Authentic brick oven crust
- ✓ High-quality, vine-ripened sauce
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Limited customization options
| Cheese Blend | Whole milk Mozzarella, Provolone, Fontina, Romano, Parmesan |
| Crust Type | Brick oven baked, thin and crispy |
| Sauce | Rao’s Homemade pizza sauce with vine-ripened Italian tomatoes and fresh basil |
| Ingredients Quality | All natural, premium quality ingredients |
| Serving Suggestions | Garnish with grated Parmigiano-Romano, chopped Italian parsley, or fresh basil |
| Cooking Method | Wood-fired brick oven baking |
As soon as I unwrapped the Rao’s Five Cheese Frozen Pizza, I was struck by how thick and inviting the crust looked. It’s got that rustic, brick oven appearance that promises authentic flavor, and the scent of bubbling cheese and tangy tomato sauce immediately made my mouth water.
Once baked, the crust turned out to be perfectly crisp on the outside while still chewy inside—no sogginess here. The five cheese blend—Mozzarella, Provolone, Fontina, Romano, and Parmesan—delivered a rich, creamy melt in every bite.
It’s obvious Rao’s doesn’t cut corners with their cheese selection; it’s decadent and flavorful without overpowering the other ingredients.
The sauce is another highlight. Made from vine-ripened Italian tomatoes, it strikes a great balance of sweetness and acidity, with fresh basil adding that authentic touch.
It’s a simple, classic flavor that makes you feel like you’re sitting in a cozy Italian trattoria. I also liked how easily I could customize it—adding fresh basil or a dusting of Parmigiano-Romano really elevated the flavor even more.
Overall, this pizza feels like a premium, restaurant-quality option you can enjoy at home. It’s perfect for a quick family dinner or a casual get-together.
The ingredients are clearly high quality, and the brick oven crust gives it that traditional, smoky flavor that makes all the difference.
My only minor gripe is that it’s a bit pricey compared to other frozen options, but honestly, the quality makes up for it. If you love cheese and a authentic-looking crust, this one checks all the boxes.
Red Baron Deep Dish 4 Cheese Pizza 11.2 oz, 2-pack
- ✓ Crispy, buttery crust
- ✓ Rich cheese blend
- ✓ Quick microwave prep
- ✕ Slightly greasy
- ✕ Limited size options
| Crust Type | Deep dish, crispy, buttery crust |
| Pizza Size | 11.2 oz per pizza |
| Number of Pizzas | 2 per pack |
| Cheese Types | Mozzarella, Cheddar, Provolone, Parmesan |
| Preparation Method | Microwave (2-3 minutes) |
| Country of Origin | United States |
Honestly, I was surprised how much I enjoyed this deep dish pizza when I popped it into the microwave. I expected something quick and decent, but the crust actually turned out crispy and buttery, not soggy or flimsy.
The cheese blend is what really caught me off guard. With real mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, and Parmesan, it’s a cheesy flavor explosion that doesn’t feel fake or overly processed.
It melts beautifully and coats each bite with a rich, savory taste.
The size is just right for a quick lunch or solo dinner. The deep dish style gives it that satisfying heft, but it’s not overly thick or heavy.
Plus, the sauce has a zesty kick that balances the cheese without overpowering it.
Preparation is a breeze—just microwave for 2 to 3 minutes, and it’s ready to enjoy. No fuss, no oven needed, which makes it perfect for busy days or when you’re craving pizza fast.
The crust is crispy on the edges and slightly flaky, giving a nice contrast to the gooey cheese inside.
One thing to note is that the packaging keeps it fresh and easy to handle. It’s a convenient, tasty choice that feels more indulgent than your average frozen pizza.
I’d definitely keep these in the freezer for a quick, satisfying meal that hits all the right cheesy notes.
Freschetta Italian Cheese Brick Oven Pizza 20.28 oz
- ✓ Crispy yet tender crust
- ✓ Rich five cheese blend
- ✓ Easy to prepare
- ✕ Slightly salty flavor
- ✕ Limited topping variety
| Crust Type | Brick oven, fire-baked artisan crust |
| Dough Preparation | Scratch-made dough |
| Cheese Blend | Mozzarella, provolone, fontina, asiago, parmesan |
| Pizza Size | 20.28 oz (approx. 575 grams) |
| Cooking Instructions | Bake at 400°F for 13-17 minutes |
| Ingredients | Real cheese, premium toppings |
As soon as I pulled this Freschetta Five Cheese Pizza out of the oven, the aroma of gooey, bubbling cheese mixed with that irresistible brick oven crust hit me immediately. You can really tell the difference the five cheese blend makes—mozzarella, provolone, fontina, asiago, and parmesan come together in a rich, cheesy symphony.
The crust is what really stole the show. It’s crispy on the outside but still tender and fluffy inside, just like a good brick oven pizza should be.
I love how the scratch-made, Italian-inspired dough holds up to all that cheese without sagging or losing its crunch.
Baking it was a breeze—just 15 minutes at 400°F, and I had a pizza that looked like it was straight from a fancy pizzeria. The balance of cheese to crust is spot on, and the toppings are generously distributed, so every bite is flavorful.
The cheese melts perfectly, creating that gooey, stringy texture that makes pizza so satisfying.
Overall, this pizza is a fantastic shortcut for that authentic brick oven experience at home. The real cheese and artisan crust mean you’re getting quality, not just convenience.
It’s perfect for a quick dinner or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.
If I had to pick a downside, the only thing I’d say is that it might be a little salty for some. But honestly, the cheesy richness more than makes up for it.
Red Baron Classic Four Cheese Pizza (Frozen), 21.06 Oz
- ✓ Great cheese blend
- ✓ Perfect crust texture
- ✓ Easy to cook
- ✕ Slightly greasy
- ✕ Limited topping variety
| Crust Type | Classic crust, not too thick or thin with a crunch |
| Cheese Types | Mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, parmesan |
| Weight | 21.06 ounces (approximately 1.32 pounds) |
| Cooking Instructions | Bake at 400°F for 18-21 minutes, do not thaw |
| Ingredients | Made with zesty tomato sauce and 100% real cheese |
| Serving Size | One pizza, suitable for sharing |
That moment I finally got my hands on the Red Baron Classic Four Cheese Pizza, I couldn’t wait to see if it lived up to the hype. The aroma of zesty tomato sauce and melted cheese filled the kitchen as I pulled it out of the freezer—it immediately looked inviting.
The crust caught my eye first. It’s not too thick or thin, with just the right amount of crunch around the edges.
Baking it at 400°F for about 20 minutes gave it a golden finish that was perfectly crispy on the outside but still tender inside.
When I took the first bite, the cheese blend really stood out. You get a good mix of mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, and parmesan—rich and flavorful without being overpowering.
The cheese melted evenly over the sauce, creating a gooey, satisfying experience.
The crust holds up well—it’s sturdy enough to handle the toppings but not heavy. It’s a great balance for comfort food that’s easy to prepare.
Plus, it’s an excellent source of protein and calcium, making it a slightly healthier option for a quick meal.
Overall, this pizza hits that sweet spot between convenience and taste. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a casual get-together.
Just pop it in the oven, and you’re set for a cheesy, flavorful slice that’s hard to beat at this price point.
What Are the Best Types of Cheese to Use in a Pizza Oven?
The best types of cheese to use in a pizza oven are those that melt well and provide excellent flavor. Common choices include mozzarella, provolone, and fontina.
- Mozzarella
- Provolone
- Fontina
- Parmesan
- Gouda
- Ricotta
- Cheddar
- Goat cheese
- Blend of cheeses
Understanding various cheese options is crucial for achieving a delicious pizza.
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Mozzarella:
Mozzarella is a staple cheese for pizza. This cheese melts beautifully and creates a stretchy texture. It has a mild flavor that complements various toppings. According to a study by the Culinary Institute of America, fresh mozzarella provides a creamier consistency than its processed counterparts. -
Provolone:
Provolone adds a distinct spicy and tangy flavor to pizzas. This cheese melts well and can be used in combination with mozzarella for a more complex taste. A 2019 paper from the International Journal of Gastronomy highlights provolone’s ability to enhance flavor depth in baked dishes. -
Fontina:
Fontina cheese is known for its rich, nutty flavor. It melts smoothly, making it a great addition to pizzas. Combining fontina with other cheeses such as mozzarella can elevate the overall taste. Research from the American Cheese Society indicates that fontina’s unique characteristics make it ideal for high-heat cooking. -
Parmesan:
Parmesan adds a sharp and salty note to pizzas. While it doesn’t melt like other cheeses, it can be used as a finishing touch. Shavings of parmesan on a pizza create a burst of flavor. The USDA reports that parmesan is rich in umami, enhancing overall taste. -
Gouda:
Gouda is a semi-hard cheese with a slightly sweet and smoky flavor. It melts well and adds richness to pizza. Combining gouda with mozzarella provides a balanced taste. According to a 2020 study published in Dairy Technology, gouda’s melting properties work exceptionally well in high-temperature environments. -
Ricotta:
Ricotta cheese adds creaminess to pizza. It doesn’t melt in the same way as mozzarella but provides a lovely texture. Ricotta can be dolloped on top of a pizza for a delightful finish. Experts from the Journal of Dairy Research recommend ricotta for its versatility and balance in flavor profiles. -
Cheddar:
Cheddar cheese is sharper than many traditional pizza cheeses. While it isn’t always the first choice for pizza, it can add depth when blended with mozzarella. Many pizzerias use cheddar for its unique flavor, particularly in specialty pizzas. The Cheese Report 2021 suggests that cheddar’s popularity in pizza has increased due to its robust taste. -
Goat cheese:
Goat cheese offers a tangy flavor that contrasts well with sweet or savory toppings. It may not melt like mozzarella but adds a creamy texture when baked. Using goat cheese can provide a gourmet twist to traditional pizza. The Journal of Culinary Science found that goat cheese enhances flavor profiles significantly. -
Blend of cheeses:
Using a blend of cheeses can create a unique flavor and texture profile. Combining different types can enhance aroma, meltability, and taste. Many pizzerias experiment with cheese blends to create signature pizzas. In a 2022 culinary trends study, survey results showed that consumers enjoy the complexity that cheese blends bring to their overall pizza experience.
How Do Different Cheese Varieties Enhance Pizza Flavor?
Different cheese varieties enhance pizza flavor by contributing unique tastes, textures, and melting qualities. This diversity allows for creative combinations that elevate the overall pizza experience.
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Mozzarella: This cheese is known for its mild flavor and excellent melting properties. It becomes wonderfully stretchy when melted, providing a classic pizza texture. A study by S. C. V. Pavan et al. (2019) notes that mozzarella’s moisture content helps it achieve a desirable golden brown appearance when cooked.
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Parmesan: This cheese adds a sharp, nutty flavor. Its aged profile introduces a complex taste that contrasts well with the sweetness of tomato sauce. Parmesan is often used as a finishing cheese, providing a delightful crunch when grated over a hot pizza after baking.
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Cheddar: Cheddar offers a rich and tangy flavor. Its sharpness varies depending on the aging process. Aged cheddar, used in moderation, can deepen the overall taste profile of a pizza. Research by A. B. Johnson (2020) indicates that cheddar contributes to both flavor and visual appeal due to its vibrant color.
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Provolone: Provolone has a smooth texture and a slightly sharp taste. Its melting properties work well in combination with other cheeses. It enhances flavor complexity without overpowering the dish. Provolone is often used in regional pizza styles, such as those from Naples.
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Goat cheese: Goat cheese provides a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that offers a distinctive twist. It can be crumbled or layered on top of various toppings, enriching the pizza’s overall character. Studies by R. L. Martinez (2021) show that goat cheese’s unique acidity balances richer flavors like sausage or olives.
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Gorgonzola: This blue cheese introduces a bold, pungent flavor that can elevate the dish. Its creamy texture adds a delightful mouthfeel. A balanced use of gorgonzola can create a gourmet pizza experience.
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Fontina: Fontina cheese melts beautifully, offering a rich and buttery flavor. Its elasticity and taste enhance a pizza’s texture when combined with other cheeses.
Using combinations of these cheeses allows chefs to craft pizzas that cater to varying taste preferences while providing enjoyable textures and flavors throughout.
What Are the Melting Characteristics of Ideal Pizza Cheese?
The melting characteristics of ideal pizza cheese involve a balance of stretchiness, creaminess, and browning attributes.
- Stretchiness
- Creaminess
- Meltability
- Browning
- Flavor Profile
- Fat Content
The characteristics of pizza cheese can vary based on different combinations of these attributes, leading to diverse perspectives on the ideal cheese for pizza.
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Stretchiness:
Stretchiness refers to the ability of cheese to stretch without breaking. Ideal cheese showcases significant elasticity, allowing for long, playful strings when pulled. Mozzarella is well-known for its outstanding stretchiness. According to a 2016 study by the Dairy Research Institute, mozzarella made from water buffalo milk has better stretchability than cow’s milk mozzarella. -
Creaminess:
Creaminess relates to the smooth texture that cheese provides when melted. Ideal pizza cheese, such as a whole milk mozzarella, offers a rich, creamy mouthfeel, enhancing the overall taste of the pizza. A study from the Journal of Dairy Science (2018) found that cheeses with higher fat content, like whole milk mozzarella, develop creamier textures when melted, which many pizza lovers prefer. -
Meltability:
Meltability indicates how well cheese changes from a solid to a liquid. Ideal pizza cheese should melt uniformly and smoothly to create a cohesive topping on the pizza. American cheese, for example, melts superbly due to its emulsifying properties, as identified in research conducted by the USDA in 2019. -
Browning:
Browning refers to the Maillard reaction that occurs when cheese is exposed to heat, creating a desirable golden crust. The ideal cheese should brown without burning, contributing to the visual appeal and flavor complexity of the pizza. According to a study by the University of Wisconsin-Madison (2020), cheeses with higher protein content tend to brown well, offering an ideal crispy finish. -
Flavor Profile:
The flavor profile encompasses both the taste and aroma of melted cheese. Ideal pizza cheese should have a mild yet savory flavor that complements other ingredients without overpowering them. Parmesan adds robust flavors when combined with mozzarella, enhancing the overall taste experience. Research from the International Dairy Federation (2019) indicates that combining different cheeses can create a more complex flavor profile, appealing to diverse palates. -
Fat Content:
Fat content refers to the amount of fat in the cheese, which significantly impacts its melting and creamy characteristics. Cheeses with higher fat content, like full-fat mozzarella, melt better and provide a richer flavor. The Food Science Institute (2021) highlights the importance of fat in cheese for achieving a supple texture during baking, crucial for an ideal pizza outcome.
How Does Cheese Selection Impact the Crust Quality in a Pizza Oven?
Cheese selection significantly impacts the crust quality in a pizza oven. Different cheeses melt at varying temperatures and have distinct moisture levels. High-moisture cheeses, such as mozzarella, contribute to a softer and more chewy crust. Low-moisture cheeses, like provolone, create a firmer crust with a crispier texture.
When cheese melts, it releases fat and moisture. This process influences how the crust interacts with the heat. A cheese that browns well, such as aged mozzarella, enhances the crust’s flavor and appearance. In contrast, a cheese that retains too much moisture can result in a soggy crust.
Additionally, cheese creates a barrier that protects the crust from direct heat. Properly selecting a cheese helps regulate this barrier, allowing for an evenly cooked crust. Combining different cheeses can also balance textures and flavors, further influencing overall crust quality.
In summary, the choice of cheese affects the crust’s texture, moisture retention, and flavor, making it a vital component in achieving the desired pizza oven outcome.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing Cheese for Pizza Ovens?
When choosing cheese for pizza ovens, consider factors such as meltability, flavor, moisture content, and cheese blend combinations.
- Meltability
- Flavor
- Moisture Content
- Cheese Blend Combinations
Meltability: Meltability refers to how well a cheese melts when exposed to heat. Cheese with high meltability creates a smooth and gooey texture. Mozzarella is a classic choice for its excellent meltability. A study by the Dairy Research Institute (2019) found that low-moisture mozzarella melts more effectively than other types.
Flavor: Flavor is crucial in determining the taste profile of the pizza. Different cheeses offer unique flavors. For instance, mozzarella provides a mild taste, while cheddar adds a sharpness. A blend of cheeses can enhance overall flavor complexity. Experts suggest combining mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a richer flavor.
Moisture Content: Moisture content affects both texture and cooking time. High-moisture cheeses can result in a soggy crust. Low-moisture cheeses are preferable for pizza ovens, as they have less water and allow for a crispier base. Research by the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (2020) indicates that cheeses with 52% moisture content or lower yield better results in high-heat cooking environments.
Cheese Blend Combinations: Cheese blend combinations can create unique textures and flavors. Combining different types of cheese can enhance both meltability and taste. Many pizzerias use a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for added depth. According to a 2021 survey by PMQ Pizza Magazine, 75% of professional pizzerias experiment with cheese blends to stand out.
Which Cheese Combinations Create the Most Delicious Pizza?
The most delicious pizza combinations often include a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan for flavor and texture.
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Classic Combinations:
– Mozzarella and Parmesan
– Mozzarella and Provolone
– Mozzarella and Ricotta -
Unique Combinations:
– Goat Cheese and Mozzarella
– Gorgonzola and Fontina
– Cheddar and Mozzarella -
Specialty Cheeses:
– Burrata
– Feta
– Gruyère -
Regional Preferences:
– American-style pizzas often favor Mozzarella.
– Italian pizzas may use a variety of local cheeses.
– Some gourmet pizzas may include unexpected cheeses like blue cheese.
The opinions about cheese combinations can vary widely among pizza enthusiasts.
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Classic Combinations:
Classic cheese combinations enhance the traditional pizza experience. Mozzarella combined with Parmesan creates a rich and creamy flavor profile. This blend provides a satisfactory stretch and rich umami. According to a report by the International Dairy Federation in 2020, mozzarella is a staple cheese in over 80% of pizza sales globally. Similarly, the mix of mozzarella and provolone offers a slight sharpness that balances well with the mildness of mozzarella. -
Unique Combinations:
Unique combinations introduce unexpected flavors to pizza. Goat cheese and mozzarella create a tangy and creamy fusion, while gorgonzola and fontina provide a strong and complex taste. The National Dairy Council mentions that using diverse cheeses can elevate a dish and attract adventurous eaters. Cheddar, although less common in traditional recipes, adds a sharp, bold flavor that can work well with vegetables and meats on pizza. -
Specialty Cheeses:
Specialty cheeses can elevate pizza to gourmet levels. Burrata adds a luxurious creaminess with its rich interior. Feta contributes a tangy brightness, making it popular in Mediterranean-style pizzas. Gruyère offers a nutty flavor, ideal for a pizza inspired by Swiss ingredients. The use of these specialty cheeses has been highlighted in various culinary magazines, with chefs emphasizing their importance in innovative pizza dishes. -
Regional Preferences:
Regional preferences play a significant role in cheese selection. In the United States, mozzarella remains the favorite due to its melting properties and mild taste. In Italy, local cheeses like buffalo mozzarella and pecorino are often prioritized for authenticity. A 2021 study from the Food Culture Journal notes that locals often choose their regional cheeses for pizza based on tradition and availability. Gourmet pizzas, meanwhile, may introduce unique ingredients and cheese types, attracting foodies looking for new experiences.