Extra Cheese Recipe

Combine cheeses

In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the shredded mozzarella and provolone until evenly combined. Stir in the finely grated Parmesan so the blend has a uniform texture and salt distribution.

Break up clumps

If the shredded cheeses are clumping, use your fingers or a fork to gently separate them so the blend will melt evenly when applied to the dish.

Add seasonings

Sprinkle garlic powder, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt over the combined cheeses. Toss gently until seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the cheese blend.

Taste a small pinch of the cheese mixture (if safe for you) to check seasoning balance. Adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to preference.

Add extra cheese to your dish

Spoon or scatter the prepared extra-cheese blend evenly over the surface of the item you're enhancing (pizza, pasta bake, garlic bread, casserole, etc.). For pizza, distribute toward edges as well as center to encourage even browning.

Melt and brown (if desired)

If you want the cheeses melted and lightly browned, place the dish under a preheated broiler or in a 475°F (245°C) oven. Broil for 1–3 minutes, watching constantly, until cheese is bubbly and edges develop golden-brown spots. If using an oven, bake 5–8 minutes until melted and starting to brown. Times vary by appliance—monitor closely to prevent burning.

Finish and serve

Remove from heat. If desired, lightly drizzle with olive oil and scatter sliced fresh basil over the melted cheese. Let rest 1–2 minutes, then serve immediately so the extra-cheese is stringy and hot.