Pizza is more than just a quick meal; it’s a culinary journey across America. From the thin, crispy crust of a New York slice to the rich, deep layers of a Chicago-style pie, each type offers a unique taste experience.
We’ve scoured the country to bring you the most beloved pizza varieties, showcasing the perfect blend of crust, sauce, cheese, and toppings.
Explore the most popular types of pizza around the country. and why they’re not just popular, but a staple in American dining.
Top 10+ Most Popular Different Types of Pizza (A Flavorful Exploration)
1. Margherita Pizza
The Margherita pizza is a timeless classic. Its beauty lies in its simplicity – a thin, crispy crust topped with tangy tomato sauce, creamy fresh mozzarella, vibrant basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil. This pizza is a tribute to the colors of the Italian flag and a testament to the idea that sometimes, less is more. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
2. Pepperoni Pizza
Pepperoni pizza is the quintessential American favorite. It’s generously topped with spicy, slightly smoky pepperoni slices that curl up at the edges as they cook. The pepperoni’s bold flavor, combined with gooey cheese and a classic tomato base, creates a satisfyingly hearty meal. It’s a go-to choice for pizza lovers of all ages, perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.
3. Hawaiian Pizza
Hawaiian pizza brings a tropical twist to the traditional pie. It’s a unique combination of sweet pineapple chunks and savory ham, spread over a cheesy, tomato-sauced crust. This pizza divides opinions, but its blend of sweet and salty flavors has earned it a dedicated following. It’s a playful, adventurous choice for those looking to try something different.
4. Meat Pizza
The Meat Lovers pizza is a carnivore’s dream. Packed with a variety of meats like spicy sausage, crispy pepperoni, savory ham, and sometimes bacon or ground beef, it’s a robust and filling option. Each slice is a meaty, flavorful journey, making it a popular choice for those who crave a hearty, protein-packed meal.
5. Veggie Pizza
Veggie pizza is a colorful and healthy option. It’s loaded with a variety of fresh vegetables like crisp bell peppers, sweet onions, earthy mushrooms, and tangy olives. This pizza is not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among vegetarians and health-conscious eaters alike.
6. BBQ Chicken Pizza
BBQ Chicken pizza is a delightful fusion of flavors. It’s topped with tangy BBQ sauce, tender grilled chicken, and often sweet onions, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Some variations include smoky bacon or sweet corn, adding an extra layer of flavor. It’s a modern, flavorful twist on traditional pizza.
7. Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Buffalo Chicken pizza is for those who love a spicy kick. It features zesty buffalo sauce and juicy chicken pieces, often complemented by a cooling drizzle of blue cheese or ranch dressing. This pizza is a bold, flavorful choice, perfect for fans of spicy food and offers a deliciously different pizza experience.
8. Supreme Pizza
Supreme pizza is a hearty, all-inclusive option. It combines a variety of toppings, including pepperoni, sausage, onions, peppers, and mushrooms. This pizza is a crowd-pleaser, offering something for everyone. Its rich array of ingredients ensures a burst of different flavors in every bite.
9. Four Cheese Pizza
Four Cheese pizza is a cheese lover’s paradise. It blends creamy mozzarella, sharp parmesan, rich gorgonzola, and another cheese like tangy feta or smooth ricotta. This pizza is a delightful exploration of cheesy goodness, with each cheese adding its unique flavor and texture to the mix.
10. Sicilian Pizza
Sicilian pizza stands out with its thick, pillowy dough. It’s topped with a robust tomato sauce, onions, anchovies, and herbs. The thick crust is perfect for holding the hearty toppings, and the combination of flavors from the sauce and toppings creates a rustic and satisfying meal. This pizza is known for its square shape and is a staple in Italian-American cuisine.
11. Calzone Pizza
The Calzone, a cousin to the traditional pizza, is a turnover-style dish stuffed with cheese, meats, and vegetables. It’s a handheld delight, offering the familiar flavors of pizza in a convenient, portable form. Each calzone is a surprise package, filled with gooey, melty goodness.
12. Chicago Deep Dish
Chicago Deep Dish is a pizza like no other. Known for its high edges and deep layers, it’s almost like a savory pie filled with cheese, sauce, and various toppings. Baked in a round, steel pan, this pizza offers a unique, indulgent experience, with its thick crust and rich, hearty fillings
13. Neapolitan Pizza
Originating from Naples, Italy, the Neapolitan pizza is a testament to the art of pizza making. It features a distinctively thin, soft crust with a slight char, topped with high-quality, fresh ingredients like sweet San Marzano tomatoes, creamy mozzarella di bufala, fresh basil, and a hint of olive oil. This pizza is a culinary masterpiece, offering a taste of Italian tradition in every bite.
14. White Pizza (Pizza Bianca)
White Pizza, or Pizza Bianca, offers a delightful change from the norm by omitting tomato sauce. Instead, it’s topped with rich cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella, and often garnished with garlic, herbs, and sometimes vegetables or meats. It’s a creamy, flavorful alternative for those looking to try something different from the classic pizza.
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Types of Pizza Crust
1. Classic Hand-Tossed
The classic hand-tossed crust is the heart of traditional pizza. It’s a versatile favorite, offering a perfect balance between a crispy exterior and a soft, airy interior. This crust is all about skillful tossing, creating a dough that’s just right for a variety of toppings.
It’s the canvas for classic pizza flavors, loved for its golden-brown finish and delightful chewiness. Whether you’re a fan of simple cheese or a loaded supreme, the classic hand-tossed crust holds up to the challenge, making it a top choice for pizza enthusiasts everywhere.
2. Thin Crust
Thin crust pizza is the epitome of crunch. It’s a minimalist’s dream, with a crispy, cracker-like base that’s all about letting the toppings shine. This crust is a staple in New York-style pizzas, offering a light, almost brittle texture that’s perfect for those who prefer flavor over fluff.
Each bite is a harmonious blend of toppings and crust, making it ideal for those who love a less doughy pizza. It’s the go-to for a quick, satisfying crunch, proving that sometimes, the best things in pizza are thin.
3. Deep Dish
Deep dish crust is like the comfort food of pizza crusts. Originating from Chicago, it’s a thick, robust base, forming a sturdy bowl for an abundance of cheese, sauce, and toppings. This crust is baked in a deep pan, allowing the edges to rise high and create a soft, yet dense texture.
It’s a crust that’s almost like eating a savory pie, rich and fulfilling. Each slice is a hearty meal in itself, making deep dish a beloved choice for those who love their pizza loaded and indulgent.
4. Stuffed Crust
Stuffed crust pizza is a delightful twist on the traditional. Imagine biting into the outer edge of your pizza and finding a hidden treasure of melted cheese. This innovative crust takes the joy of pizza to new heights, offering a surprise element of gooey cheese baked into the dough.
It’s a playful, fun take on the classic crust, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture. Perfect for cheese lovers, stuffed crust turns the often-overlooked pizza edge into a highlight, making every slice a cheesy adventure.
5. Sicilian Style
Sicilian crust is that fluffy, bread-like base, usually in a cool rectangular shape. It’s thick and chewy, perfect for when you want something more substantial under your toppings. It’s a big deal in Italian-American pizza and totally satisfying.
6. Neapolitan
Neapolitan crust is the essence of Italian pizza tradition. Originating from Naples, this crust is thin, tender, and slightly charred. Made with high-quality, simple ingredients, it’s cooked quickly in a blazing hot oven, creating a delicate balance of chewy and crispy textures.
This crust is a testament to the art of pizza making, where less is more, and quality shines through. Each slice of Neapolitan pizza is a bite of history, offering a taste of authentic Italian craftsmanship.
7. Gluten-Free
Gluten-free crusts have revolutionized pizza for those with dietary restrictions. Made with alternative flours, these crusts ensure that everyone can enjoy a slice without compromise. They mimic the texture and taste of traditional crusts, offering a similar experience with a gluten-free twist. Whether due to health reasons or personal choice, gluten-free crusts are a testament to inclusive culinary innovation, ensuring that pizza remains a universal joy.
8. Cauliflower Crust
Cauliflower crust is the new kid on the block. It’s healthier, lighter, and made from, well, cauliflower! It’s a great pick if you’re watching carbs or just want to sneak in some veggies.
9. Whole Wheat
Whole wheat crust brings a nutritious twist to pizza. Made with whole wheat flour, it offers a deeper, nuttier flavor compared to its white flour counterpart. This crust is denser and heartier, providing an extra dose of fiber and nutrients.
It’s a great choice for health-conscious pizza lovers who don’t want to sacrifice taste for nutrition. Whole wheat crust is a wholesome alternative, perfect for creating a more substantial and satisfying pizza experience.
10. Detroit Style
Detroit-style crust is a unique blend of crispy and fluffy. This rectangular pizza has a thick, airy dough, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The edges are encrusted with caramelized cheese, creating a delightful texture contrast.
This crust is a nod to Detroit’s automotive history, traditionally baked in industrial parts pans. It’s a must-try for those who love a crust that’s both chewy and crunchy, offering a distinctive twist on the classic pizza experience.
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Where to Order the Best Pizza in Southern California
When looking for great pizza in Southern California, you have many fantastic choices. This area is known for mixing traditional Italian pizza with new and exciting flavors. Here are some of the best places to get pizza in Southern California:
- Distinctive Catering, Southern California
- Gourmet Pizza Shoppe, Redland
- Pizzeria Mozza, Los Angeles
- Buona Forchetta, San Diego
- Tony’s Pizza Napoletana, San Francisco
Let’s explore the pizza places in Southern California more closely to find other great pizzerias where you can enjoy some of the best pizzas.
1. Distinctive Catering, Southern California
Distinctive Catering stands out in Southern California for its exceptional pizza catering services. We specialize in creating personalized pizza experiences for any event, ensuring each slice is as unique as our clients. Whether it’s a corporate event or a family gathering, our attention to detail and quality ingredients make every pizza a memorable part of your occasion. With Distinctive Catering, you’re not just ordering pizza; you’re crafting an experience that guests will talk about long after the last slice is enjoyed.
2. Gourmet Pizza Shoppe, Redland
Gourmet Pizza Shoppe in Redlands is a dream come true for pizza enthusiasts. With a menu boasting over 75 unique pizzas, they cater to every taste and preference. Their famous Avocado Delight is a must-try, blending traditional pizza flavors with a Californian twist. Each pizza is crafted with care, ensuring a delightful experience for both your taste buds and your event guests. Their catering services bring this variety straight to your event, making them a top choice for pizza catering in Southern California.
3. Pizzeria Mozza, Los Angeles
Pizzeria Mozza in Los Angeles is where culinary expertise meets the art of pizza making. Co-founded by renowned chefs, this pizzeria offers a gourmet experience with its perfectly charred crust and high-quality toppings. Their catering services bring this exquisite taste to your events, offering a sophisticated twist on the classic pizza party. Whether it’s a small gathering or a large celebration, Pizzeria Mozza’s catering adds a touch of elegance and unforgettable flavors.
4. Buona Forchetta, San Diego
Buona Forchetta in San Diego brings the heart of Naples to Southern California with its authentic Neapolitan pizzas. Their Margherita pizza, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, is a testament to traditional pizza-making techniques. When catering for events, they bring this authenticity to you, offering a taste of Italy in every bite. Ideal for both intimate and grand events, Buona Forchetta’s catering services promise to elevate your dining experience with their genuine Neapolitan pizzas.
5. Tony’s Pizza Napoletana, San Francisco
Tony’s Pizza Napoletana may require a drive from Southern California, but it’s a journey worth taking for any pizza lover. Chef Tony Gemignani, a world-renowned pizza chef, offers a variety of pizza styles, including his award-winning Margherita. Their catering services allow you to bring the excellence of Tony’s pizzas to your event, no matter the size. It’s more than just pizza; it’s a culinary adventure that Tony’s Pizza Napoletana brings right to your doorstep.
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How Distinctive Catering Can Help You Streamline Pizza Catering
Are you planning an event and thinking about pizza catering? Let Distinctive Catering make it an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. With our focus on simplicity, quality, and customization, we take the hassle out of catering, allowing you to enjoy your event stress-free.
At Distinctive Catering, we specialize in both Corporate Catering and Social Event Catering, recognizing the need for diverse food choices. Our menu is crafted to please every guest, whether they prefer traditional flavors or seek something more unique.
From the always popular cheese and pepperoni to our special gourmet creations, we’ve got a range of options to suit all tastes and dietary requirements. We’re dedicated to using fresh, local ingredients, making each pizza more than just food – it’s a delicious, high-quality experience for your event.
But we don’t just stop at great food. We know that each event is unique, and we’re here to make sure your pizza catering aligns perfectly with your event’s theme. From kids’ parties to corporate events, we offer customizable options to fit the vibe of your gathering. Our team works closely with you to understand your needs and preferences, ensuring that every detail is just right.
Efficiency is key in any event, and our experienced staff ensures that service is smooth and seamless. We pride ourselves on serving pizzas that are hot, fresh, and plentiful, keeping your guests satisfied and happy. This efficient service is part of our commitment to making your event a success.
Call us at (818)355-3179 to find out more and see how we can make your event great.
People Also Ask
Which pizza style is best?
The best pizza style depends on personal taste. Some popular styles include New York-style with its thin, foldable crust, Chicago deep dish known for its thick crust and hearty toppings, and Neapolitan pizza, famous for its simple, fresh ingredients and wood-fired crust.
What are the 7 types of Italian pizza?
The seven types of Italian pizza include:
- Neapolitan
- Roman
- Sicilian
- Focaccia
- Calzone
- Pizza al Taglio
- Pizza al Padellino
What are the 10 types of pizza?
Ten popular types of pizza include:
- New York-style
- Chicago deep dish
- Neapolitan
- Sicilian
- Greek
- California-style
- Detroit-style
- St. Louis-style
- Hawaiian
- Margherita
