There are days when you don't feel like cooking, and the perfect solution arrives in a round, steaming form. A freshly made pizza can save any night effortlessly. If it also has something new and tasty, success is guaranteed.
Papa John's has introduced a new item that's caused a real stir in the United States. It's their new Cheddar Crust Pizza, a pizza topped with aged Cheddar cheese and a touch of garlic and herbs baked right onto the edge of the dough.
A recipe that puts the spotlight on the crust
The new Cheddar Crust Pizza is only available in large size and is made with Papa John's usual fresh dough, never frozen. What makes it special is that the cheese and spices aren't inside the crust, but on top. This creates a golden, crispy, and flavorful edge that contrasts with the softer interior of the pizza.
The customer can customize the rest of the pizza as always: choosing the sauce, the type of cheese, and the toppings they like best. What stands out is that blend of melted Cheddar with the aroma of garlic and herbs, which makes the crust the star. This combination has even surprised the most loyal fans of other chains, like Domino's, which recently also launched their own stuffed crust version.
In addition to the pizza, Papa John's has added Cheddar Cheesesticks to their menu, according to All Recipes. They're breadsticks made with pizza dough, brushed with garlic sauce, and topped with the same melted Cheddar cheese blend. They're served with their famous dipping sauce, making them the ideal side or even a dish on their own.
The idea of adding cheese to the edge of the pizza isn't new. In the 1990s, Pizza Hut popularized the so-called "stuffed crust." However, some claim that a New York man named Anthony Mongiello was the first to have the idea.
Only for a limited time, but with great impact
These new Papa John's products will only be available for a limited time in the United States. The chain hasn't confirmed how long they'll be available, so many customers have already rushed to try them as soon as possible. Expectations are high, and social media have quickly filled with photos and positive comments.
The focus on Cheddar isn't a coincidence. While mozzarella cheese is still the most used, aged Cheddar brings a more intense flavor and a different texture. This choice, along with the method of baking directly on the crust, has been key to setting them apart from the rest.
Papa John's has thus managed to make a bold move in a very competitive market. Meanwhile, Domino's continues to stick to more traditional formulas, while this new version targets those looking for something different. A simple but effective innovation that's won over cheese fans.