Buffalo, New York is known for many things—its rich history, passionate sports fans, and of course, its signature dish, buffalo wings. But one of the city’s hidden gems is its distinctive style of pizza. Although less renowned than New York or Chicago-style pizza, Buffalo pizza has garnered a devoted fanbase due to its distinct qualities. So, what makes Buffalo pizza different from the many other regional pizza styles across the United States and the world?
In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore what sets Buffalo pizza apart, from its dough, sauce, and cheese to its toppings and cooking methods. We’ll also take a look at the cultural significance of Buffalo pizza, how it compares to other well-known styles, and why it deserves more recognition on the national stage.
The Essence of Buffalo Pizza: What Sets It Apart?
The key to understanding what makes Buffalo pizza different lies in its foundation—the crust. While various pizza styles feature unique doughs, Buffalo pizza boasts a crust that is thicker than New York-style but thinner than Chicago deep-dish. It strikes a balance that gives it a chewy yet crispy texture, making it one of the most defining elements of Buffalo pizza.
1. The Dough: Thick, Chewy, and Crisp
Buffalo pizza dough is unique in that it achieves a balance between being substantial without being overly heavy. The crust is usually medium-thick, with enough chew to hold up to hearty toppings, but it’s not so thick that it becomes overly dense.
One of the key differences in the dough is its hydration level. Bakers use a higher hydration dough, meaning more water is used, resulting in a crust that is soft and airy on the inside, while maintaining a crispy exterior when baked. This blend of textures is key to what sets Buffalo pizza apart from other regional pizza styles.
2. Sweet and Tangy Tomato Sauce
Another aspect that sets Buffalo pizza apart is the sauce. Buffalo pizza features a tomato sauce that is slightly sweeter than what you’d typically find in New York or Neapolitan pizza. This sweetness is intentional, balancing the salty and savory flavors of the cheese and toppings. The sauce itself is not overly thick but has a smooth texture that spreads evenly over the dough.
This slightly sweet sauce contributes a unique flavor profile, giving Buffalo pizza its signature taste. The sauce isn’t overly spicy or herbaceous but instead has a mild tang that complements the other elements of the pizza perfectly.
A Trio of Cheeses: Rich, Creamy, and Balanced
If you want to know what makes Buffalo pizza different, you can’t overlook the cheese. While mozzarella is a staple on most pizzas, Buffalo pizza takes it a step further by incorporating a blend of cheeses that gives it a more complex and rich flavor.
1. Whole-Milk Mozzarella for Creaminess
Whole-milk mozzarella is the primary cheese used on Buffalo pizza. It melts beautifully, providing that classic stretch that pizza lovers adore. Unlike part-skim mozzarella commonly used in other pizza styles, whole-milk mozzarella offers a richer, creamier texture, providing the pizza with a velvety mouthfeel.
2. Provolone and White Cheddar for Extra Flavor
In addition to mozzarella, Buffalo pizza often incorporates provolone and white cheddar cheese. Provolone adds a sharp, nutty undertone, while white cheddar brings a slight tanginess. This combination of cheeses adds complexity to the flavor profile, making each bite more savory and satisfying.
The inclusion of cheddar cheese in particular is one of the things that makes Buffalo pizza different from other pizza styles. While cheddar isn’t typically associated with pizza, in Buffalo, it’s an essential part of the recipe that adds richness and depth to the overall flavor.
Toppings: Generous and Hearty, Just Like Buffalo
When it comes to toppings, Buffalo pizza is all about being bold and hearty. The toppings are applied generously, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. While you can find a variety of toppings on Buffalo pizza, there are a few that are particularly popular and set it apart from other pizza styles.
1. Cup-and-Char Pepperoni: A Buffalo Specialty
One of the most iconic toppings on Buffalo pizza is cup-and-char pepperoni. Unlike the flat slices of pepperoni found on most pizzas, cup-and-char pepperoni curls up as it cooks, forming crispy edges and small “cups” that collect flavorful oils. This type of pepperoni is thicker and spicier than traditional varieties, adding a smoky, crispy bite to the pizza.
Cup-and-char pepperoni is one of the signature ingredients that helps define what makes Buffalo pizza different. The texture and flavor it brings are hard to replicate with other types of pepperoni, and it has become a must-have topping for many Buffalo pizza enthusiasts.
2. Sausage, Mushrooms, and Onions
Aside from pepperoni, sausage is another popular topping on Buffalo pizza. Crumbled Italian sausage adds a savory, slightly spicy element to the pizza, complementing the sweetness of the sauce. Mushrooms and onions are also commonly used, providing an earthy, sweet contrast to the meaty toppings.
Buffalo pizza is known for its generous portions of toppings, making each slice hearty and satisfying. Whether you stick with classic toppings like pepperoni and sausage or opt for a veggie-loaded version, Buffalo pizza doesn’t skimp when it comes to flavor.
Cooking Method: A High-Heat, Crisp Finish
The cooking method is another key factor in what makes Buffalo pizza different. Buffalo pizza is typically baked at a higher temperature than most other pizza styles, usually around 475 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat ensures that the crust gets crispy on the outside while staying chewy on the inside.
1. Baking on Stone or Steel for Perfect Texture
To achieve the ideal texture, many Buffalo pizzerias bake their pizzas on a stone or steel surface. This helps distribute heat evenly, ensuring that the crust cooks properly without becoming soggy. The result is a pizza that has a perfect balance of crunch and chew, with toppings that are cooked just right.
Buffalo pizza is also known for having a slightly longer baking time compared to thin-crust varieties like New York pizza. This allows the dough to fully rise and the cheese to melt thoroughly, creating a satisfying texture in every bite.
Comparing Buffalo Pizza to Other Regional Styles
To truly understand what makes Buffalo pizza different, it’s helpful to compare it to other well-known pizza styles. Each regional pizza has its own unique characteristics, and Buffalo pizza stands out in several ways.
1. Buffalo Pizza vs. New York-Style Pizza
New York-style pizza is known for its large, thin slices that can be folded and eaten on the go. The sauce is often more acidic, and the cheese is usually just mozzarella. Buffalo pizza, on the other hand, has a thicker, chewier crust, a sweeter sauce, and a more complex cheese blend.
New York-style pizza is designed for quick, portable eating, while Buffalo pizza is a heartier meal that requires a fork and knife to fully appreciate. The toppings on Buffalo pizza are also more generous, making it a more filling option compared to the minimalist approach often taken with New York slices.
2. Buffalo Pizza vs. Chicago Deep-Dish
Chicago deep-dish pizza is almost the opposite of Buffalo pizza in terms of structure. Chicago-style pizza has a thick, buttery crust that resembles more of a pie than a traditional pizza. The cheese is placed underneath the sauce, creating a layered effect that contrasts with the more straightforward construction of Buffalo pizza.
While Buffalo pizza has a thicker crust than New York pizza, it’s nowhere near as dense as deep-dish. The focus in Buffalo is on creating a pizza that is both filling and easy to eat, with the sauce and cheese sitting on top of the dough rather than being baked into it.
3. Buffalo Pizza vs. Neapolitan Pizza
Neapolitan pizza is known for its very thin, soft crust and fresh ingredients like buffalo mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. It’s often cooked at very high temperatures for a short amount of time, resulting in a pizza that is light and airy.
In contrast, Buffalo pizza is much heartier, with a thicker crust, more toppings, and a richer cheese blend. While Neapolitan pizza focuses on simplicity and fresh ingredients, Buffalo pizza embraces a more indulgent, comfort-food approach, with layers of cheese, sauce, and hearty toppings.
The Cultural Importance of Buffalo Pizza: A Regional Pride
Pizza is more than just food in Buffalo—it’s a source of regional pride. Much like how Chicagoans and New Yorkers fiercely defend their pizza styles, Buffalonians are deeply loyal to their city’s pizza. What makes Buffalo pizza different is not only its ingredients and cooking methods but also the deep connection it has to the community.
1. Family-Owned Pizzerias at the Heart of Buffalo
Buffalo is home to many family-owned pizzerias, some of which have been operating for decades. These local establishments have perfected their recipes over generations, passing down the secrets to making authentic Buffalo pizza. Each pizzeria has its own take on the classic style, but they all share a commitment to quality and tradition.
For many Buffalo residents, pizza is more than just a meal—it’s a way to bring people together. Whether it’s after a Bills game or at a family gathering, Buffalo pizza plays a central role in the city’s food culture.
2. A Staple of Buffalo’s Food Scene
While buffalo wings may be the city’s most famous culinary export, Buffalo pizza holds a special place in the local food scene. It’s not uncommon for Buffalo residents to have strong opinions about which pizzeria serves the best pizza, and friendly debates over which toppings are superior are a common part of the local culture.
Buffalo pizza is a reflection of the city itself: hearty, unpretentious, and full of flavor. It’s a food that resonates with the city’s blue-collar roots, offering a filling and satisfying meal that people can enjoy together.
How to Make Buffalo Pizza at Home
If you’ve never tried Buffalo pizza but want to experience what makes Buffalo pizza different, you can recreate it at home with the right ingredients and techniques. Here’s a simple guide to making your own Buffalo-style pizza.
1. Ingredients for Buffalo Pizza
- Pizza dough: Opt for a medium-thick dough with a high hydration level for that chewy yet crispy texture.
- Tomato sauce: Use a slightly sweet tomato sauce, adding a touch of sugar to balance the acidity.
- Cheese blend: Combine whole-milk mozzarella, provolone, and white cheddar for an authentic Buffalo pizza experience.
- Toppings: Cup-and-char pepperoni, crumbled Italian sausage, mushrooms, and onions are all popular choices.
2. Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the dough: Roll out your pizza dough to a medium thickness, ensuring it’s not too thick or too thin.
- Spread the sauce: Use a sweet tomato sauce and spread it evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
- Add the cheese: Layer the mozzarella, cheddar, and provolone cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Top it off: Add your favorite toppings, such as cup-and-char pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, or onions.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and bake the pizza on a stone or steel for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Enjoy: Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Pizza
What is the key difference between Buffalo pizza and other styles?
The key difference is the crust, which is medium-thick and chewy, the sweet tomato sauce, and the blend of cheeses, including mozzarella, provolone, and white cheddar.
Is Buffalo pizza spicy?
Buffalo pizza is not inherently spicy. While some toppings like cup-and-char pepperoni may add a bit of heat, the pizza itself is generally more sweet and savory than spicy.
Where can I find authentic Buffalo pizza?
Authentic Buffalo pizza can be found in many family-owned pizzerias throughout Buffalo, New York. Some pizzerias outside of Buffalo also offer it, particularly in areas with a large population of Buffalo transplants.
Can Buffalo pizza be made with other toppings?
Yes, while cup-and-char pepperoni and sausage are popular, you can customize your Buffalo pizza with a variety of toppings like mushrooms, onions, green peppers, and more.
Is Buffalo pizza available nationwide?
Buffalo pizza is primarily a regional specialty, but some national chains have started offering variations. However, for the most authentic experience, it’s best to visit Buffalo itself or make it at home.
Conclusion: What Makes Buffalo Pizza Different?
So, what makes Buffalo pizza different? From its medium-thick, chewy crust to its sweet tomato sauce and rich blend of cheeses, Buffalo pizza offers a unique take on this beloved dish. The generous portions of toppings, particularly the iconic cup-and-char pepperoni, give it a distinct flavor that stands out from other regional pizza styles.
Buffalo pizza is more than just food—it’s a reflection of the city’s history, culture, and sense of community. Whether you’re enjoying it at a local pizzeria or making it at home, Buffalo pizza is a delicious and hearty option that deserves a place among the great regional pizzas of the United States.