Homemade Pizza School

Updated: August 18, 2023

Reading Time: 7 Minutes

What Are the Best Toppings for Homemade Pizza? A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re looking to make homemade pizza, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is what toppings to use. While there are plenty of classic options, like pepperoni and mushrooms, there are also plenty of creative possibilities to consider, like pineapple or anchovies.

Here, we’ll explore some of the best toppings for homemade pizza, whether you prefer a classic pie or something a little more adventurous.

One of the great things about making pizza at home is the ability to customize it to your liking. If you’re a fan of meat, you might opt for toppings like sausage, bacon, or ham. For a vegetarian option, consider toppings like bell peppers, onions, or olives. Of course, you can always mix and match to create your own unique flavor combination.

When it comes to cheese, there are plenty of options to choose from as well. Mozzarella is a classic choice, but you might also consider using a blend of cheeses like cheddar, authentic parmesan, and asiago.

And don’t forget about the sauce! Whether you prefer a traherditional tomato sauce or something a little more unique, like pesto or alfredo, the sauce can make all the difference in the flavor of your pizza.

Classic Toppings

When it comes to homemade pizza, classic toppings are always a crowd-pleaser. These toppings have stood the test of time and are loved by pizza enthusiasts around the world.

One of the most popular classic toppings is pepperoni. This spicy and savory topping is made from cured pork and is a staple on most pizza menus. Another classic topping is mushrooms. These earthy and flavorful fungi add a delicious depth of flavor to any pizza.

For those who prefer a vegetarian option, green peppers and onions are a great choice. These toppings add a satisfying crunch and sweetness to the pizza. Additionally, black olives are a classic topping that pairs well with most other ingredients.

Finally, no classic pizza is complete without mozzarella cheese. This mild and creamy cheese is the perfect complement to any pizza topping and is a must-have for any homemade pizza.

Classic ToppingsDescription
PepperoniA spicy and savory cured pork topping
MushroomsEarthy and flavorful fungi
Green PeppersCrunchy and sweet peppers
OnionsSweet and savory onions
Black OlivesSalty and tangy olives
Mozzarella CheeseMild and creamy cheese

Overall, classic toppings are a great choice for any homemade pizza. They are loved by pizza enthusiasts around the world and are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

cooking fresh toppings with pizzazz countertop pizza oven best toppings for homemade pizza

Creative Toppings

While traditional toppings like pepperoni and mushrooms are always delicious, sometimes it’s fun to get a little creative with your pizza toppings unless you have kids. Here are a few unique ideas to try:

  • Fig and Prosciutto: Top your pizza with sliced figs, prosciutto, and crumbled goat cheese for a sweet and savory flavor combination.
  • BBQ Chicken: Spread barbecue sauce on your pizza crust and top with shredded chicken, red onion, and cilantro for a tangy and delicious pizza.
  • Pesto and Artichoke: Use pesto as your pizza sauce and top with marinated artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired pizza.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations and toppings. You never know what delicious pizza creation you might come up with!

Meat Toppings

Meat toppings are a popular choice for pizza lovers. Here are some of the best meat toppings to try on your homemade pizza.

Pepperoni

Pepperoni is the most popular meat topping for pizza. It’s a type of salami that’s made from beef and pork. Pepperoni is spicy and has a distinct flavor. It’s perfect for those who love a little bit of heat on their pizza.

Sausage

Sausage is another popular meat topping for pizza. It’s made from ground pork or beef and is seasoned with various spices. Sausage is a great choice for those who prefer a milder flavor compared to pepperoni.

Bacon

Bacon is a delicious meat topping for pizza. It’s made from pork belly and is usually crispy and salty. Bacon adds a smoky flavor to the pizza and is perfect for those who love a savory taste.

Ham

Ham is a classic meat topping for pizza. It’s made from pork and has a mild, salty flavor. Ham is a great choice for those who prefer a less spicy and milder flavor on their pizza.

Chicken

Chicken is a great choice for those who prefer a lighter meat topping on their pizza. It’s a lean meat that’s high in protein. Chicken can be seasoned with various spices and can be cooked in different ways, such as grilled or roasted, to add more flavor to the pizza.

Ground Beef

Ground beef is a hearty meat topping for pizza. It’s seasoned with various spices and can be cooked in different ways, such as sautéed or grilled, to add more flavor to the pizza. Ground beef is perfect for those who love a meaty and filling pizza. View our list of affordable grills for homemade pizza.

Vegetarian Toppings

Vegetarian pizzas are a great way to enjoy a delicious meal without any meat. Here are some of the best vegetarian toppings to try on your homemade pizza:

  • Mushrooms: Mushrooms are an excellent topping for vegetarian pizzas. They add a meaty texture and a rich flavor to the pizza.
  • Onions: Onions are a great way to add some sweetness and crunch to your pizza. Try caramelizing them before adding them to the pizza for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Olives: Olives are a classic pizza topping that pairs well with vegetarian pizzas. They add a salty and briny flavor to the pizza.
  • Peppers: Peppers are a colorful and flavorful addition to any pizza. Try using a mix of red, green, and yellow peppers for a visually stunning pizza.
  • Spinach: Spinach is a healthy and tasty topping for vegetarian pizzas. It adds a fresh and earthy flavor to the pizza.
  • Feta Cheese: Feta cheese is a great way to add some tanginess to your pizza. It pairs well with vegetables and adds a creamy texture to the pizza.

These vegetarian toppings are a great way to add some variety to your homemade pizza. And there’s even vegetarian meat choices for homemade pizza. Try mixing and matching them to create your own unique pizza masterpiece!

Cheese Toppings

One of the most important parts of a homemade pizza is the cheese topping. The type of cheese you choose can make a big difference in the overall taste and texture of the pizza. Here are some of the best cheese toppings to consider:

  • Mozzarella: This is the classic cheese for pizza. It has a mild flavor and a creamy texture that melts well. It’s a great choice if you want a traditional pizza.
  • Cheddar: If you’re looking for a sharper flavor, cheddar is a great option. It has a tangy taste that pairs well with many toppings.
  • Provolone: This cheese has a slightly smoky flavor that goes well with meats like pepperoni and sausage.
  • Parmesan: This cheese has a strong, nutty flavor that adds a lot of depth to your pizza. It’s a great choice if you want to add some extra flavor to your pizza.

When it comes to cheese toppings, it’s important to choose a high-quality cheese that melts well. Freshly grated cheese is always a good choice, as it will melt more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese. You can also experiment with different types of cheese to find the perfect combination for your pizza.

Overall, the cheese topping is an essential part of any homemade pizza. By choosing the right cheese and using it in the right way, you can create a delicious and satisfying pizza that everyone will love.

Sauce Toppings

The sauce is the foundation of any good pizza, and the right sauce toppings can take your homemade pizza to the next level. Here are a few ideas to try:

  • Classic tomato sauce: This is the most traditional pizza sauce and is a great starting point for any pizza. You can make your own with canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, or use a store-bought version.
  • Pesto: If you’re in the mood for something a little different, try using pesto as your pizza sauce. It’s made with fresh green basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese, and adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor to your pizza.
  • White sauce: If you’re not a fan of tomato-based sauces, try using a white sauce made with cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. It’s rich and creamy and pairs well with toppings like chicken, spinach, and mushrooms.

When it comes to sauce toppings, less is often more. Don’t overload your pizza with sauce or it will become soggy and difficult to eat. Use a light hand and spread the sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a little bit of space around the edges for the crust to puff up.

Experiment with different sauce toppings to find your favorite combination. Remember, the sauce is just one element of a great pizza, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings and crust as well.

The Best Toppings for Homemade Pizza

Choosing the best toppings for your homemade pizza can be a fun and creative experience. With so many options to choose from, you can experiment with different combinations to find the perfect flavor profile that suits your taste buds.

Whether you prefer classic toppings like pepperoni and mushrooms, or more unique options like arugula and prosciutto, the key is to balance the flavors and textures of each ingredient. Remember to use high-quality ingredients, and don’t be afraid to try new things!

Overall, the best toppings for homemade pizza are the ones that you enjoy the most. So, have fun and get creative with your pizza toppings, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with family and friends!

One of our Favorites

Battistoni Cup & Char Pepperoni is the perfect topping for homemade pizza. Its unique cupping and charring process creates a crispy texture and enhances the flavor of the pepperoni. Made with high-quality ingredients, it’s a delicious and easy way to take your homemade pizza to the next level.

Share With Other Pizza Lovers:

ooni Brand

Ooni pizza ovens have gained a reputation as the go-to choice for homemade pizza enthusiasts, and for good reason. Their commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative design sets them apart in the realm of pizza ovens. One of the standout features of Ooni pizza ovens is their versatility. Whether you prefer the classic taste of wood-fired pizza or the convenience of gas or charcoal, Ooni offers models to suit every preference. This versatility allows home chefs to experiment with different cooking methods to achieve their desired flavor profiles and textures.

Pizzelo Brand

Elevate your homemade pizza game with Pizzelo’s precision-engineered pizza ovens. Achieve that perfect, crispy crust and gooey cheese you’ve been dreaming about every time you smell pizza. With customizable temperature control and quick heating, enjoy authentic pizzeria taste in the comfort of your home. Unleash your inner chef with Pizzelo – where passion meets perfection.

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Authors

DK & Eliana

DK & Eliana

Thanks for reading about our homemade pizza journey! We're a young married couple who started making pizza at home on our wedding night and haven't looked back yet. We've learned over countless attempts of trial and error how to make the perfect pizza sauce, pizza dough, and exactly which pizza accessories to buy for your home setup...

FYI When you make a purchase or, sometimes, carry out some other action as direct result of clicking on a link at Homemade Pizza School, we will receive a small commission. Gratzie!

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Our Pizza Favorites:

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