The Ultimate Guide to Pizza Toppings

Before we dive into the delicious world of pizza toppings, let’s talk about the art of choosing them. The best pizza toppings are more than just about taste—they're all about finding the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. When you nail the combination, you end up with a pizza that's delicious and a treat for the eyes.

Balancing Flavors

The key to a great pizza is in the balance of flavors. You want a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, salty, and tangy. For example, if you’re loading up on salty meats like pepperoni or sausage, consider balancing them with something sweet like caramelized onions or pineapple. On the other hand, if you’re using a lot of rich, creamy cheeses, you might want to add something with a bit of acidity, like tomatoes or olives, to cut through the richness.

Texture Matters

Texture is another important factor to consider when choosing your pizza toppings. A great pizza has a mix of crunchy, chewy, and creamy textures that keep every bite interesting. Think about combining crispy bacon with gooey melted cheese or pairing soft roasted vegetables with a crunchy crust. This interplay of textures makes each slice more satisfying.

Color and Presentation

We eat with our eyes first, so don’t underestimate the importance of color when it comes to your pizza. A variety of colorful toppings makes your pizza more appealing and hints at the range of flavors and textures that await. Red tomatoes, green peppers, golden-brown cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs can make your pizza look as good as it tastes.

Classic Pizza Toppings: Tried and True Favorites

Let’s start with the classics. These are the pizza toppings that everyone knows and loves—simple, flavorful, and timeless. If you’re looking for the best pizza toppings that never disappoint, here are some must-haves:

1. Pepperoni

Arguably the king of pizza toppings, pepperoni is a go-to for many pizza lovers. It’s savory, slightly spicy, and crisps up perfectly in the oven, adding a delightful crunch.

2. Mushrooms

Earthy and savory, mushrooms are a versatile topping that pairs well with almost anything. They bring a depth of flavor that enhances both meat and vegetarian pizzas.

3. Sausage

Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, sausage is a hearty topping that adds a burst of flavor to every bite. Italian sausage, in particular, is a favorite for its robust, fennel-infused taste.

4. Onions

Onions add a sweet, tangy element to your pizza, especially when they’re caramelized. They’re perfect for balancing out richer ingredients like cheese and meat.

5. Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers add a fresh, sweet crunch to your pizza. They’re also great for adding visual appeal, making your pizza look as vibrant as it tastes.

6. Black Olives

Salty and briny, black olives are a classic topping that adds a distinct flavor contrast to milder ingredients like mozzarella cheese.

7. Extra Cheese

Because let’s be honest—who doesn’t want more cheese? Adding an extra layer of mozzarella or even a mix of different cheeses can make your pizza extra indulgent.

Ah, pineapple on pizza—the topic that has divided friendships, families, and possibly even entire nations. It’s the question that can turn a calm pizza night into a heated debate: Is pineapple a good pizza topping?

Let’s break it down. On one side, you have the purists, the pizza traditionalists who believe that fruit has no place on a pizza. They’ll argue that the sweetness of pineapple is an abomination against the savory, cheesy goodness that a pizza should be. "Pineapple belongs in fruit salads, not on a pizza," they proclaim as they clutch their pepperoni slices defensively.

On the other side, you have the adventurous eaters, the culinary rebels who see no problem with a little sweetness to balance the salty ham or bacon. These are the folks who love a good Hawaiian pizza and will gladly defend their choice with a confident, “Why not?” They argue that the juicy tang of pineapple perfectly complements the savory toppings, adding a refreshing twist to the classic pizza flavors.

And then, of course, there are those who are just along for the ride, happily munching on whatever pizza is in front of them, pineapple or not. They’re the peacekeepers in this age-old debate, nodding along to both sides, just trying to keep the pizza party harmonious.

So, is pineapple a good pizza topping? At 7-Eleven, we say it’s all about personal preference. If you love it, pile it on! If not, there are plenty of other toppings to explore. After all, the beauty of pizza is that it’s a blank canvas, ready to be customized exactly how you like it—even if that means adding a tropical touch.

Now that we’ve covered the classics, let’s get creative. If you’re looking to take your pizza game to the next level, these pizza topping ideas will inspire you to think outside the (pizza) box.

1. Prosciutto and Arugula

This combo is a favorite among gourmet pizza lovers. The salty prosciutto pairs perfectly with the peppery bite of fresh arugula, creating a pizza that’s both light and flavorful.

2. BBQ Chicken

Swap out the tomato sauce for BBQ sauce, and top your pizza with grilled chicken, red onions, and cilantro. The result? A smoky, tangy pizza that’s packed with flavor.

3. Buffalo Chicken

For those who like it hot, a Buffalo chicken pizza is the way to go. Toss some cooked chicken in Buffalo sauce, add a layer of ranch or blue cheese, and finish with a sprinkle of mozzarella.

4. Fig and Goat Cheese

If you’re looking for something truly unique, try this combination. The sweetness of the figs contrasts beautifully with the tangy goat cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze ties it all together.

5. Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Ditch the red sauce and go green with a pesto base. Top with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a sprinkle of pine nuts for a pizza that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors.

6. Bacon and Egg

Breakfast for dinner, anyone? A pizza topped with crispy bacon and a few cracked eggs is not only delicious but also a conversation starter. Just be sure to cook the pizza until the eggs are set but still runny.

7. Spinach and Feta

For a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, try topping your pizza with spinach and feta. The creamy feta adds a tangy richness that complements the fresh spinach perfectly.

8. Truffle Oil and Mushrooms

For a touch of luxury, drizzle some truffle oil over a mushroom-topped pizza. The earthy, aromatic oil enhances the mushrooms’ flavor, making every bite a gourmet experience.

Creating a memorable pizza isn’t just about piling on the toppings. It’s about knowing how to layer them, how much to use, and when to add them to achieve the perfect balance. Here are some tips to help you build the ultimate pizza:

Layer Smartly

When it comes to layering your pizza toppings, the order matters. Start with the sauce, followed by a layer of cheese to create a base that holds everything together. Then add your meats, followed by vegetables, and finish with a final sprinkle of cheese. This method ensures even cooking and prevents the toppings from sliding off.

Don’t Overload

It’s tempting to pile on the toppings, but less is often more when it comes to pizza. Overloading your pizza can make it soggy and difficult to cook evenly. Stick to 3-5 toppings per pizza for the best results.

Use Fresh Ingredients

The quality of your toppings can make or break your pizza. Fresh, high-quality ingredients will always taste better than their processed counterparts. If possible, opt for fresh vegetables, quality meats, and real cheeses to elevate your pizza.

Experiment with Sauces

Tomato sauce is the classic choice, but don’t be afraid to try something new. Pesto, Alfredo, BBQ sauce, and even garlic butter can add a unique twist to your pizza. Just make sure the sauce complements your toppings for a harmonious flavor profile.

Everyone deserves to enjoy a great pizza, no matter their dietary preferences or restrictions. Here are some pizza topping ideas tailored to specific diets:

Vegetarian

For a meat-free pizza that’s packed with flavor, try a combination of roasted vegetables, fresh basil, and a variety of cheeses. Popular vegetarian toppings include spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes.

Vegan

For a delicious vegan pizza, start with a tomato or marinara base and load up on your favorite veggies. Vegan cheese is also widely available and can be melted just like regular cheese. Some great vegan pizza toppings include artichokes, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and arugula.

Gluten-Free

If you’re gluten-intolerant, you can still enjoy pizza with a gluten-free crust. As for toppings, focus on naturally gluten-free options like meats, cheeses, and vegetables. Just be sure to check that any processed ingredients, like sauces or pepperoni, are certified gluten-free.

Keto

For those following a ketogenic diet, a cauliflower crust is a popular low-carb alternative. Top it with high-fat, low-carb ingredients like pepperoni, sausage, mozzarella, and plenty of veggies for a keto-friendly pizza that’s both satisfying and diet-friendly.

Ready to get creative in the kitchen? Here are some pizza topping combinations that are sure to impress:

Margherita

Simple and classic, a Margherita pizza features fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. Drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt for a truly authentic experience.

Hawaiian

This polarizing pizza topping combination pairs sweet pineapple with salty ham or Canadian bacon. Love it or hate it, it’s a unique option that’s worth trying at least once.

Meat Lover’s

For the carnivores out there, a Meat Lover’s pizza is the ultimate indulgence. Pile on pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and ham for a protein-packed pie.

Veggie Supreme

Packed with a variety of fresh vegetables, a Veggie Supreme pizza is both nutritious and delicious. Try a mix of bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives, and spinach.

White Pizza

Also known as a pizza bianca, this pizza swaps tomato sauce for a base of ricotta and mozzarella. Add garlic, spinach, and mushrooms for a creamy, savory delight.

There’s no denying that the right toppings can take a pizza from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re sticking with classic favorites or branching out with new, creative pizza topping ideas, the possibilities are endless. So, next time you’re planning a pizza night, don’t settle for the same old toppings—experiment with new flavors, textures, and combinations to create a pizza that’s truly your own.

And remember, if you’re short on time, you can always pick up a cheese pizza from 7-Eleven and use it as your base for building the perfect pie. With the right toppings, every pizza night can be an adventure in flavor.