The Most Popular Pizza Toppings: A Complete Guide

2. Cheese: The Foundation of Every Pizza

While every pizza has cheese, some pizzas go beyond the standard mozzarella. Popular cheese toppings include:

• Mozzarella: The classic choice for its meltability and mild flavor.
• Parmesan: Adds a nutty, salty kick as a finishing sprinkle.
• Ricotta: Perfect for white pizzas or dolloped over marinara for a creamy texture.

3. Sausage: A Savory Favorite

Sausage brings hearty, savory flavor to pizzas. Common varieties include:

• Italian Sausage: Often seasoned with fennel, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
• Chorizo: Adds a spicy, smoky touch.
• Breakfast Sausage: Ideal for brunch-style pizzas with eggs and cheese.

Baking the sausage on the flat cooktop

On the Arteflame, you can grill the sausage on the flat cooktop while you're baking the pizza in the pizza oven. This way, you can get the sausage perfect and add them to the pizza when you take it out of the oven.

4. Vegetable Toppings

For a fresh and colorful pizza, vegetables are a must. The most popular choices include:

• Mushrooms: Their earthy flavor pairs well with most toppings.
• Bell Peppers: Add sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
• Onions: Whether caramelized or raw, onions bring a sweet or sharp flavor.
• Spinach: Perfect for white pizzas or as a healthy addition.
• Olives: Black and green olives add a salty, briny touch.

5. Meats Beyond Pepperoni

Meat lovers rejoice! Here are other popular meat toppings:

• Ham: Often paired with pineapple for the controversial Hawaiian pizza.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch.
• Chicken: Grilled or barbecue chicken is a favorite on gourmet pizzas.

Baking the meats on the flat cooktop

On the Arteflame, you can grill all the meat on the flat cooktop while you're baking the pizza in the pizza oven. This way, you can get chicken or bacon perfect before adding them to the pizza when you take it out of the oven.

6. Gourmet and Unique Toppings

Modern pizza lovers experiment with flavors beyond the classics. These toppings are growing in popularity:

• Arugula: Adds a fresh, peppery note, often added after baking.
• Prosciutto: Thin slices of cured ham elevate any pizza.
• Truffle Oil: Drizzled for a touch of luxury.
• Figs: Paired with goat cheese for a sweet-savory twist.
• Buffalo Sauce: Spicy and tangy, often combined with chicken.

7. Seafood Toppings

Seafood toppings are less common but cherished by fans of coastal cuisine. Popular options include:

• Shrimp: Lightly seasoned and paired with garlic and herbs.
• Anchovies: A divisive topping, anchovies bring intense saltiness.
• Clams: Featured on white pizzas with garlic and olive oil.

8. The Controversial Pineapple

Few toppings spark as much debate as pineapple. Loved by some and loathed by others, this tropical fruit is a signature ingredient on Hawaiian pizzas. Its sweet-tangy flavor pairs surprisingly well with ham or bacon.

9. Herbs and Finishing Touches

Herbs and drizzles can elevate any pizza:

• Basil: Essential for Margherita pizzas, added fresh after baking.
• Oregano: A classic herb sprinkled over the sauce or cheese.
• Garlic Oil: Adds richness and depth to any crust.

10. Combining Toppings: The Art of Balance

The best pizzas feature a balance of flavors and textures. When choosing toppings:

• Pair savory meats with sweet elements like caramelized onions or pineapple.
• Add crunch with vegetables like bell peppers or arugula.
• Use cheese as a base and experiment with herbs or spices for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Whether you stick to classics like pepperoni and sausage or venture into gourmet territory with prosciutto and truffle oil, the beauty of pizza lies in its adaptability. Use this guide as inspiration to craft your perfect pie and enjoy the endless possibilities of pizza toppings.