As a seasoned chef, I’ve made my fair share of pizzas and have eaten copious amounts of pizza crusts. Pizza is life, and when it comes to pizza crust, there’s no one-size-fits-all.
The good news? With so many pizza crust options out there, you’re bound to find one that fits your personal taste and preferences.
What are the different types of pizza crusts? There are several types of pizza crusts. The thin crust is thin and crispy, while the Neapolitan style is thin but soft. New York style is thin and flexible. Deep-dish or Chicago-style is thick and hearty, and Sicilian is thick and square-shaped.
Let’s explore every type of pizza crust, from the classic Neapolitan to the trendy cauliflower crust.
In This Article
Neapolitan Pizza Crust
Let’s start with the classic Neapolitan pizza crust, which originated in Naples and is characterized by its thin, crispy texture and slightly chewy center.
The crust is made from simple ingredients – flour, water, yeast, and salt – and must be stretched by hand to achieve its characteristic dome shape.
New York-Style Pizza Crust
New York-style pizza crust is the go-to crust for many pizza lovers.
It’s thicker than Neapolitan crust but not as thick as Chicago-style crust.
The crust should have a crispy exterior and a chewy interior with just the right flop.
The secret to a good New York-style crust is high-gluten flour, which gives the dough its characteristic chewiness.
Chicago Deep Dish Pizza Crust
If you’re looking for a pizza that’s more like a pie, the Chicago-style deep dish crust is where it’s at.
This crust is thick and flaky and is layered with cheese and toppings before being topped with sauce.
The baking process is longer than with other crusts, but the end result is a deliciously indulgent pizza that’s worth the wait.
Sicilian Pizza Crust
The Sicilian pizza crust is similar to focaccia and is known for its thick, spongy texture.
This crust is typically rectangular in shape and is often cut into squares. Grab your pizza cutter and get slicing!
The crust is made with a high hydration dough, which gives it its characteristic airy texture.
Whole Wheat Pizza Crust
Whole wheat pizza crust is a great alternative for those who prefer a healthier option.
This crust is made with whole wheat flour, which is higher in fiber and nutrients than traditional flour.
The crust has a heartier texture and a nuttier flavor than other pizza crusts.
Gluten-Free Pizza Crust
For those who suffer from gluten intolerance or celiac disease, gluten-free pizza crust is a must.
This crust is typically made with rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca starch, to name a few ingredients.
The texture is usually denser than traditional pizza crust but can be crispy if baked correctly.
Cauliflower Pizza Crust
The cauliflower pizza crust is a trendy, low-carb alternative to traditional pizza crust.
This crust is made with cauliflower rice and cheese and can be made into a thin or thick crust.
The texture is softer than a traditional pizza crust, but the flavor is still delicious.
Thin Crust Pizza
If you’re looking for a pizza that’s light on the carbs, thin crust pizza is a great option.
This crust is rolled out very thinly and has a crisp texture.
It’s the perfect background for a variety of toppings and is a great option for those who prefer a lighter pizza.
Stuffed Crust Pizza
For the ultimate indulgence, stuffed crust pizza is the way to go.
This type of crust is filled with cheese or other toppings and is typically thicker than traditional crust.
It’s a great option for those who want to take their pizza game to the next level.
A Chef’s Experience With Pizza Crust
As a chef, I’ve enjoyed working with every type of pizza crust in a few of the restaurants I worked at.
Personally, my favorite is the Neapolitan crust to make and eat!
There’s something about the simplicity of the ingredients and the skill required to stretch the dough by hand that makes this crust stand out.
That being said, I always encourage people to try out different crust options and discover their personal favorites.
Pizza is all about enjoyment and having fun in the kitchen.
FAQs
What’s The Best Crust For Making Pizza At Home?
If you’re new to making pizza at home, a basic Neapolitan crust is a great place to start. It’s simple and requires minimal equipment.
Can I Make Gluten-free Pizza Crust At Home?
Yes! Many gluten-free pizza crust recipes are available online, and they’re not too complicated to make.
What’s The Best Way To Get A Crispy Crust?
A hot oven and a preheated pizza stone or pan are the secrets to a crispy crust. Preheat your oven to the highest temperature possible and let your pizza stone or baking sheet heat up for at least 30 minutes before baking your pizza.
