On September 5, people across the country celebrate National Cheese Pizza Day. This annual event is a tribute to the simplicity and deliciousness of a classic, topping-free pie. Whether you make one from scratch using sourdough or order from your favorite pizzeria, the goal is to enjoy a pizza with just cheese.
A Brief History of Pizza
While modern pizza as we know it originated in Italy, its roots can be traced back to ancient Greece, where people topped flatbreads with oil, herbs, and cheese. The Romans also had their own version, using bay leaves, cheese, and honey.
The pizza we love today began to take shape in Naples, Italy, with the creation of Neapolitan flatbread. This dish was famously topped with mozzarella cheese, laying the groundwork for the modern pizza.
Pizza made its way to the United States in the early 20th century, with the first pizzeria opening in New York City’s Little Italy in 1905. Americans quickly fell in love with it, and the rest is history. In fact, in 2024, over 3 billion pizzas were sold in the U.S., showing just how passionate we are about this food.
Make Your Own Sourdough Pizza Crust
Learning to make sourdough pizza is a rewarding endeavor that offers several benefits over traditional pizza made with commercial yeast. The natural fermentation process of a sourdough starter yields a more complex and nuanced flavor with a subtle tang.
The long fermentation process also breaks down gluten and phytic acid, making the pizza crust easier to digest for many people and increasing the bioavailability of essential nutrients, such as B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc. This process also gives the crust a lower glycemic index, which helps to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Furthermore, creating sourdough pizza allows you to have complete control over the ingredients, avoiding the preservatives and additives often found in commercial doughs. The natural acidity of the dough acts as a preservative, giving it a longer shelf life.
Below are some of our best recipes:
This blog post celebrates the superiority of sourdough pizza, highlighting its unique flavor, improved digestibility, and tender texture. It provides a brief guide to making sourdough pizza, including tips on using the starter, shaping the dough, and choosing the right flour.
This recipe for a homemade sourdough pizza crust is a project inspired by self-isolation. The author emphasizes the importance of chilling the dough to enhance flavor and ease of handling, a tip he credits to Josh Rink. The recipe details a process of mixing, kneading, and a long rise, which can be extended in the refrigerator. Instructions are given for both pan-baked and stone-baked pizzas, with a recommended oven temperature of 450°F. The author expresses delight with the crispy bottom and structural integrity of the final crust, noting how well it supported the toppings.
Sourdough Pizza: A Flavorful Twist for National Pizza Month This October
Discover the transformative power of sourdough pizza! Enjoy a unique flavor profile, chewy texture, and improved digestibility. Learn how to make your own delicious sourdough pizza with our easy-to-follow recipe.
Sourdough Pizza Bake: Get Your Bake On!
Last Winter for the Great American Pizza Bake, we challenged you to embrace the art of sourdough. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, there’s no better time to embark on this culinary adventure. We share tips, recipes, and inspiration to guide you through the process, from creating and maintaining your starter to mastering the perfect sourdough pizza dough. We explore various flours, techniques, and baking methods to help you achieve the perfect crust.
How to Celebrate National Cheese Pizza Day
The best way to observe this day is to enjoy a slice of cheese pizza! You can get creative by trying a new recipe or adding a variety of cheeses to your pie. While mozzarella is the traditional choice, you can experiment with sharp cheddar, smoky gouda, or even gorgonzola for a unique twist.
You can also host a pizza party with friends to try different recipes or take a poll to find the best cheese pizza in your area. Don’t forget to give a shout-out to your local pizzeria for all the cheesy goodness they create. Share your celebrations on social media using the hashtag #NationalCheesePizzaDay.
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