Cotija
VegetarianA crumbly, salty Mexican cheese that adds a sharp, milky tang to non-traditional pizzas.
Cotija is an aged Mexican cow's milk cheese with a firm, crumbly texture similar to feta and a salty, milky sharpness. Crumbled over pizza after baking, it adds a distinctly Latin American character that shines on pizzas with corn, poblano, and cilantro-forward flavors.
Flavor Profile
Season: all year
Best Sauces
Pairs Well With
Pizzas with Cotija
Verde Chicken Elote
Tomatillo Salsa Verde
“Mexican street corn meets salsa verde chicken on a pizza that screams summer.”
Verde Chorizo Potato
Tomatillo Salsa Verde
“Crispy chorizo and roasted potatoes on tomatillo verde — the ultimate brunch pizza.”
Verde Shrimp Avocado
Tomatillo Salsa Verde
“Zesty tomatillo salsa verde meets bright scallion, Cotija, and jalapeño.”
Verde Carnitas
Tomatillo Salsa Verde
“Smoky, crispy pulled pork vibes on a tangy tomatillo salsa verde base.”
Verde Cauliflower & Cotija
Tomatillo Salsa Verde
“This globally-inspired pizza combines the richness of Tomatillo Salsa Verde sauce with Roasted Cauliflower, Cotija, Corn, and Red Onion, creating a wholesome treat perfect for harvest season warmth.”
Verde Sweet Potato & Habanero
Tomatillo Salsa Verde
“A garden-fresh, boundary-pushing creation that pairs Tomatillo Salsa Verde sauce with Sweet Potato, Habanero, Corn, and Cotija. Best enjoyed during harvest season warmth.”
Verde Chorizo & Sweet Corn
Tomatillo Salsa Verde
“Featuring Chorizo, Corn, Red Onion, and Cotija over Tomatillo Salsa Verde sauce, this globally-inspired pizza is a indulgent dream made for long summer nights.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What does cotija cheese taste like?
Cotija has a salty, milky, slightly tangy flavor similar to a dry feta or a mild Parmesan. Younger cotija is softer and creamier, while aged cotija is harder and more crumbly.
Can cotija melt on pizza?
Cotija does not melt like mozzarella. It softens slightly when heated but retains its crumbly texture, which is why it is best added after baking as a finishing cheese.