Pronunciation: [t͡ʃˈiːz pˈiːtsə] (IPA) 
Cheese pizza is a popular dish in the United States, consisting of a pizza topped with cheese. The spelling of the word "cheese" is pronounced /tʃiːz/ in IPA transcription, with the "ch" making a "ch" sound like in "chair". The second "e" is a long "e" sound like in "bee", and the "s" is pronounced as a "z" sound. Overall, the word "cheese pizza" contains two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable.
Cheese pizza is a type of pizza that predominantly features cheese as the primary topping. It is a classic variant of this popular Italian dish, known for its simplicity and popularity among people of all ages.
The base of a cheese pizza typically consists of a round dough made from flour, water, yeast, and salt, which is stretched and rolled out into a thin circular shape. A rich tomato sauce, often seasoned with herbs and spices, is then spread evenly across the dough. The key element of a cheese pizza comes next, as slices or grated cheese, most commonly mozzarella, are generously sprinkled over the sauce.
The pizza is then baked in a hot oven until the cheese melts, becomes bubbly and slightly golden, while the crust turns crisp and slightly charred. The end result is a delicious and visually appealing creation that showcases the harmonious combination of simple yet flavor-packed ingredients.
Cheese pizza is widely enjoyed for its delightful blend of textures and flavors. The tomato sauce provides a tangy and slightly sweet taste, while the melted cheese contributes a creamy and slightly salty note. The cheese also acts as a binding agent when melted, effectively gluing the other ingredients to the crust. This traditional pizza variety serves as an excellent base for those seeking a blank canvas to add additional toppings according to personal preference. Its wide appeal and simplicity have made cheese pizza a universally loved dish, both as a standalone meal and as a versatile foundation for customization and experimentation.
The word "cheese pizza" is a compound noun combining the words "cheese" and "pizza". Here is the etymology of each word:
"Cheese" originates from the Old English word "cēse", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*kasjus". This eventually developed into the Latin word "caseus" and spread to various European languages. "Cheese" itself was first recorded in Middle English during the 14th century.
"Pizza" is of Italian origin, deriving from the word "pitta" in the Neapolitan dialect. "Pitta" referred to a flatbread, often topped with various ingredients, including cheese. The word later evolved into "pizzicare" in Italian, meaning "to pluck" or "to nibble", reflecting the way the bread was eaten.
