Pizza is an iconic food enjoyed across the globe, bringing people together and sparking debate on the optimal combination of toppings. While pizza toppings may vary wildly across regions and personal preferences, some stand out as clear favorites.
In this post, we’ll explore the most popular pizza toppings in the United States. Several toppings rose to the top as the most popular choices for customizing your ideal pie. Some results may surprise you, while others confirm what our taste buds have always known.
Get ready to get hungry as I count down the most ubiquitous and beloved go-to options for topping your next delivery or take-out pizza.
The 10 Most Popular Pizza Toppings In The United States
When it comes to pizza toppings, there is no limit to the options available. From traditional classics like pepperoni and mushrooms to more unique choices like pineapple and BBQ chicken, the variety of toppings allows for endless combinations and personalization.
But what makes a topping popular? Is it its versatility, ability to complement other flavors, or just pure deliciousness? Whatever the reason, these toppings have proven to be fan favorites time and time again.
In this “pizza era”, countless types of pizza were born with thousands of toppings from common to unique, serving the taste of everyone.
So what kind of topping do you like on pizza? Are you a fan of the classics or do you prefer to try something new and different? No matter your preference, there’s a topping out there for everyone.
Now let’s enter the delicious world of pizza toppings! Let’s take a look at the top 10 most chosen toppings in the U.S. below:
1. Pepperoni
It’s no surprise that pepperoni tops the list of most popular pizza toppings. This classic Italian sausage brings a spicy, savory kick to any slice and pairs well with just about any other topping.
Yet, it’s not just taste that makes pepperoni a favorite; its aesthetic appeal also adds to the pizza-eating experience. The bright red circles of pepperoni sprinkled across the golden cheese backdrop create an inviting image that’s hard for any pizza lover to resist.
Pepperoni is a key ingredient in 36% of all pies, and every year, Americans eat over 250 million pounds of this delicious topping.
2. Sausage
Sausage is another classic pizza topping that has stood the test of time. Its savory, slightly spicy flavor adds depth and richness to any slice, making it a popular choice for meat lovers.
There are various types of sausages used on pizzas, from Italian sausage to chorizo and even breakfast sausage. Each brings its unique flavors and textures to the pie, making it a versatile and delicious topping choice.
3. Extra Cheese
For cheese lovers, extra cheese is a must-have topping on their pizza. The more cheese, the better – that’s the motto of many pizza fanatics.
While mozzarella remains the top choice for pizza cheese, there are other popular options like cheddar, parmesan, and feta. Some pizzerias even offer specialty blends of different cheeses to add depth and variety to their pies.
Extra cheese not only adds a rich, creamy flavor but also creates that iconic stretchy string of cheese that pizza lovers crave.
4. Mushroom
Mushrooms are a staple topping on pizzas, loved by vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. These earthy fungi add a unique texture and flavor to any slice and often pair well with other toppings like onions, peppers, and olives.
They also provide some nutritional benefits as they contain essential vitamins and minerals, making them a guilt-free choice for pizza lovers looking to add some veggies to their pie.
Some common mushrooms used on pizza are cremini, shiitake, and portobello. Regardless of the type, mushrooms add a unique, irresistible flavor.
5. Pineapple
Often a topic of debate among pizza lovers, pineapple has secured its place as one of the most popular toppings. Some staunchly opposed the notion of fruit on their pizza, but pineapple has its legion of loyal fans.
It often pairs well with other toppings like ham, bacon, or even jalapeno for a spicy and sweet twist. This blend of sweet pineapple chunks and salty ham quickly gained popularity, and to this day, it remains a staple in many pizzerias worldwide.
6. Bacon
Bacon is a classic breakfast meat that has found its way onto many pizza menus. Its salty, smoky flavor pairs well with just about any topping, making it a versatile choice for pizza lovers.
Whether it’s crispy or chewy, bacon adds texture and a bold burst of flavor to any slice. It’s often used in combination with other popular toppings like pepperoni and mushroom for an ultimate meat-lovers pizza.
7. Green Pepper
Green peppers may not be the most exciting topping on this list, but they’re a classic choice that has been featured on pizzas for decades. These mild-tasting veggies add some much-needed crunch and freshness to a slice of pizza.
They often pair well with other toppings like mushrooms and onions for a tasty veggie-loaded pizza. Their vibrant hue adds a pop of color that makes the pizza visually appealing as well as delicious.
8. Onion
Onions are an incredibly versatile pizza topping, working well with a range of other ingredients to create a unique flavor profile. They add a sharp, slightly sweet flavor to pizza and also provide some nutritional benefits.
Red onions, in particular, are often used on pizzas for their vibrant color and mild flavor. They pair well with other toppings like mushrooms and peppers for a tasty combination of flavors.
Onions also offer a slightly crunchy texture, offering a nice contrast to the soft cheese and chewy crust. Many specialty pizzas feature onions as a key ingredient.
9. Black Olive
Black olives may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those who love them, they’re a must-have topping on their pizza. These salty and briny little fruits add a bold flavor to any slice and are often paired with other popular toppings like pepperoni and sausage.
Black olives on pizza not only add a unique flavor but also contribute to eye-catching aesthetics with their deep, dark color contrasted against the lighter hues of cheese and dough.
The high oil content of black olives leads to a satisfying mouthfeel that many pizza enthusiasts appreciate. So while you’re indulging in a delicious slice of pizza, you can feel slightly less guilty knowing there’s some nutritional value in those little black olives.
10. Jalapenos
For those who like a bit of heat on their pizza, jalapenos are the perfect topping. These small green peppers pack a punch, adding spicy flavor and depth to any slice.
Jalapenos are often used in combination with other toppings like pineapple or bacon for a delicious sweet and spicy mix. They also pair well with meats like chicken for a protein-packed pizza.
While some may find them too spicy, for others, jalapenos on pizza are a must-have. They add a burst of flavor and create a unique taste sensation that keeps people coming back for more.
Hence, each type has its flavor and is suitable for many customers. If there is a type you don’t expect above, next time we recommend you try adding this type of topping to experience.
Types Of Pizza Toppings | % Of U.S. Adult Citizens |
Pepperoni | 24% |
Sausage | 13% |
Extra Cheese | 11% |
Mushrooms | 9% |
Chicken | 6% |
Pineapple | 4% |
Bacon | 4% |
Peppers | 4% |
Meatball | 3% |
Onions | 2% |
Salami | 2% |
Olives | 2% |
Fresh Tomato | 2% |
Ham | 2% |
Fresh Garlic | 2% |
Fresh Basil | 2% |
Jalapenos | 2% |
Other | 5% |
(Source)
Note: Other pizza toppings such as anchovies, artichokes, spinach, eggplant, and broccoli.
Types Of Pizza Toppings | Love It | Like It | Not Sure |
Extra Cheese | 51% | 33% | 3% |
Pepperoni | 50% | 32% | 2% |
Sausage | 44% | 35% | 3% |
Mushrooms | 42% | 29% | 2% |
Peppers | 34% | 38% | 3% |
Onions | 33% | 39% | 3% |
Bacon | 33% | 40% | 5% |
Fresh Garlic | 32% | 39% | 8% |
Olives | 31% | 32% | 2% |
Fresh Tomato | 31% | 39% | 6% |
Fresh Basil | 29% | 43% | 9% |
Ham | 27% | 41% | 5% |
Meatball | 25% | 36% | 8% |
Chicken | 25% | 40% | 7% |
Spinach | 22% | 37% | 10% |
Pineapple | 22% | 37% | 6% |
Jalapenos | 19% | 31% | 6% |
Salami | 17% | 36% | 10% |
Artichokes | 13% | 25% | 14% |
Broccoli | 11% | 28% | 12% |
Anchovies | 10% | 20% | 8% |
Eggplant | 9% | 24% | 16% |
*(% of U.S. adult citizens)*
Some Popular Delicious Combinations
Now that we’ve explored some of the top pizza toppings, let’s take a look at some popular and delicious combinations that incorporate these ingredients.
1. Pepperoni, mushroom, and green pepper: This classic combination is a fan favorite for its balance of flavors and textures. The savory pepperoni pairs well with the earthy mushrooms and crunchy green peppers for a tasty slice.
2. Margherita with extra cheese and black olives: The simplicity of a classic margarita pizza is elevated with the addition of extra cheese and black olives. The creamy, salty flavors combine for a delicious slice.
3. Sausage, bacon, and pineapple: For those who love meat on their pizza, this combination brings together two popular choices – sausage and bacon – with the sweetness of pineapple for a well-rounded flavor experience.
4. Mushroom, onion, and bell pepper: This veggie-heavy combination is a great option for those looking for a healthier pizza. The earthy flavors of mushrooms, the sharpness of onions, and the crunch of bell peppers make for a delicious and satisfying slice.
5. Sausage, black olive, and jalapeno: For those who like a little bit of everything on their pizza, this combination is a must-try. The spicy jalapenos work well with the salty black olives and savory sausage for a deliciously balanced slice.
No matter what your favorite toppings may be, there’s no denying the versatility and deliciousness of pizza. From classic combinations to unique flavor profiles, there are endless possibilities for creating your perfect slice.
Which Toppings Should Not Be Combined?
While pizza is a versatile and customizable dish, certain toppings may not pair well together. Here are some combinations of the most popular pizza toppings that may not taste as good as others:
1. Pepperoni and bacon: Both of these toppings have a strong, salty flavor that can overpower each other. It’s best to choose one or the other for a well-balanced slice.
2. Green peppers and pineapple: While both toppings are delicious on their own, they may not work well together. The sweetness of pineapple can overwhelm the mild taste of green peppers.
3. Feta cheese and cheddar cheese: Mixing these two strong-flavored cheeses may result in an overpowering taste. Stick to one or the other for a more balanced pizza.
4. Pepperoni and jalapenos: Both these ingredients provide a spicy kick, but when combined, they can be overwhelming and overpower the other flavors on the pizza.
5. Mushroom and black olive: Both these toppings have a strong flavor profile that may compete with each other instead of complementing each other.
It’s all about finding the right balance and combination of flavors to create a delicious pizza. So go ahead and experiment with different toppings to find your best choice.
How To Choose a Delicious Pizza For Yourself?
When it comes to choosing the perfect pizza for yourself, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First and foremost, consider your taste preferences and what toppings you enjoy the most.
Next, think about balance and variety in your toppings. Consider incorporating both meat and vegetable toppings, as well as different types of cheeses.
Don’t be afraid to try new things and create unique flavor profiles with your favorite ingredients.
Conclusion
In short, pizza toppings can vary widely in taste, texture, and appeal, satisfying a wide range of flavor preferences. Explore different toppings and combinations that allow you to create a pizza that suits your personal preferences, whether you prefer a traditional meat-and-cheese pizza or a veggie-packed pizza.
Ultimately, the most popular pizza toppings in the United States are those that offer a harmonious combination of flavors, appeal to the palate, and encourage a deeper appreciation of this versatile dish.
Next time, try some new combinations with these toppings! Happy pizza eating!