Move Over Thin Crust: Try 7

Pizza Base

Styles For Your Next Cheesy Craving

Whenever there’s a celebration, small or big, pizza comes into the picture as a part of that celebration. While the toppings may often take centre stage, it’s the base that truly gives each slice its unique character. From the rich, cheesy layers of Chicago-style pizza to the light, soft crust of a Neapolitan pie, there’s a whole world of pizza styles to discover beyond the classic thin crust. Let’s look at seven pizza bases that are sure to elevate your next pizza party to a whole new level of deliciousness.

If you feel that more cheese is always better, then deep dish pizza is exactly your style. Chicago-style classic, cooked in a deep pan, comes with a thick, pie-like crust filled with ample layers of cheese, toppings and tomato sauce. The cheese is typically put on the foundation, unlike a normal pizza, and then the sauce is stacked on top. This makes a satisfying pizza base that is almost like a savoury pie. This is one of those varieties of pizza that can take a plain slice and transform it into a full-blown dinner.

This square-shaped treat is a must-have for your next pizza menu! Baked in a rectangular pan, Detroit-style pizza features an airy interior paired with a perfectly crisp, golden base. One of its most unique characteristics is the cheese that extends to the edges of the pan, forming a wonderfully caramelised crust as it bakes. Traditionally, the sauce is drizzled in stripes over the cheese, creating that signature look we all love on pizza.

If you’re a fan of artisan bread, you’re going to absolutely adore sourdough pizza. This style incorporates a naturally fermented sourdough starter rather than commercial yeast, leading to a crust that’s chewy, airy, and bursting with tangy flavour. The fermentation process creates bubbles in the dough, resulting in a beautiful structure. Sourdough pizza complements both classic and inventive toppings, making it a go-to for food lovers seeking a unique twist on the standard pizza experience.

If you like a soft, fluffy crust with just the perfect amount of char, Neapolitan pizza merits a position on your list. This classic comes from Naples, Italy and has a thin centre and puffy sides that turn out well in a very hot oven. The dough is usually made from basic items, including wheat, water, yeast and salt. It’s got tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella and basil, so it’s incredibly simple. The trademark charred patches and soft texture make each mouthful taste like a mini vacation to Italy.

Who says pizza bases should be prepared from plain flour? Cauliflower-crust pizza is a creative alternative, with cauliflower being the major ingredient in a foundation that is commonly supplemented with cheese, eggs, or other binding agents. This makes for a lightly crispy outside with a softer inside when cooked correctly. Its mild taste lends itself to pairing with basic toppings like mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, or experimenting with roasted vegetables and herbs. This veggie-heavy foundation is a great way to change up your regular pizza routine.

If you’re after a traditional slice that you can fold and eat on the move, you can't go wrong with New York-style pizza. This pizza is known for its big, broad slices, with a thin but robust dough that has a crisp edge and a delightfully chewy centre. A simple pairing of tomato sauce and mozzarella allows the foundation to do most of the talking. Top it with pepperoni, mushrooms, or simply cheese, and this legendary pizza makes for a perfect pick for a quick meal or a late-night hunger.

Everyone should get to enjoy a delicious slice of pizza, and with gluten-free pizza bases, no one has to be left out! Made from alternative flours such as rice, almond, or chickpea, these crusts provide a delightful range of textures, varying from crispy to soft. Gluten-free pizza styles are versatile, standing strong with all your favourite toppings, from sweet corn and onions to paneer, while offering a gluten-free choice for people with gluten-related conditions or sensitivities.

Next time you want a pizza, why not try a different base than a thin crust? Whether it’s the sumptuous heights of deep-dish pizza, the simplicity of Neapolitan pizza, health-conscious choices like cauliflower-crust pizza, or gluten-free alternatives, there’s a pizza style for everyone. Break away from your pizza routine, find a foundation to fit your mood, and your pizza night will never be the same again!