25 Pizza Topping Ideas That Will Totally Upgrade Your Slice
Pizza topping ideas can transform a simple slice into a flavor-packed experience. Whether you love classic combinations like pepperoni and mushrooms or want to try bold flavors like prosciutto with figs, the right toppings can take your pizza to the next level. In this guide, we share 25 creative pizza topping ideas that will inspire your next homemade or store-bought pizza.
Let’s be honest: you can only eat so many pepperoni pizzas before your taste buds stage a mutiny.
If your pizza game needs a glow-up, you’re in the right place. This list isn’t about the classics (we love you, pepperoni pizza, and margherita). It’s about the weirdly wonderful, surprisingly delicious, and “wait, that actually works?” kind of toppings.
And yes, I’ve tried most of these. Some were happy accidents, some were TikTok experiments, and a few came from late-night “let’s-just-put-this-on-there” decisions. No regrets. Also, if you’re working with store-bought pizza dough or crafting your own homemade pizza, you’re gonna want to save this.
Before we jump in—pro tip: always start with a solid base. Use a flavorful tomato sauce or quality pizza sauce, and don’t skimp on the mozzarella cheese. Whether you’re rocking a thick crust, thin crust, or baking on a pizza stone, the base sets the stage for your wild toppings.
1. Hot Honey + Soppressata
This is the power couple of pizza toppings: the sweet drizzle of hot honey plays perfectly against the spicy bite of soppressata. It hits that salty-sweet-spicy trifecta you didn’t know your life was missing. Best on thin crust to keep it crisp and let the toppings shine. Pair it with a glass of red wine or a crisp hard cider. Downside? You’ll never look at basic pepperoni the same way again. Sweet, spicy, salty. Need I say more? It’s like the cooler, sassier cousin of a spicy Italian sausage pizza.
2. Roasted Broccoli + Lemon Zest
Hear me out—roasted broccoli on pizza is the unsung hero of veggie toppings. The crispy edges bring texture, while the lemon zest cuts through with brightness. It works best on a white pizza base with garlic oil instead of sauce. A medium crust holds it well. Add a side of Caesar salad and a chilled white wine, and you’ve got dinner sorted. The charred bits of broccoli? Game-changer. Add lemon zest and you’re suddenly fancy. Works beautifully over white sauce if you’re into white pizza vibes.
3. Pickled Jalapeños + Pineapple
Yes, pineapple on pizza is still a thing—and when paired with pickled jalapeños? Total flavor bomb. The heat + sweet combo is unbeatable. Use mozzarella cheese and a standard pizza sauce base for contrast. Go with a medium or thick crust so the juice doesn’t soak through. Great with a cold lager or sparkling water with lime. Pro: super fun for pizza parties. Con: Might spark some strong opinions. A spicy twist on the Hawaiian. FYI, this will convert pineapple haters. Probably. Try it on pizza dough brushed with pizza sauce and topped with melty cheese.
4. Ricotta + Fresh Figs + Balsamic Glaze
This one screams date night. Creamy ricotta pairs beautifully with sweet, juicy figs and a tangy drizzle of balsamic glaze. You don’t even need tomato sauce here—just olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. Works like magic on a thin or stuffed crust, especially if you toast the base on a pizza stone. Pair it with prosecco and maybe a side of prosciutto-wrapped melon. Fancy, but not fussy. You’re basically eating a cheese plate on a pizza. Sophisticated? Kinda. Delicious? Absolutely. This is peak brunch-pizza energy.
5. Cream Cheese + Everything Bagel Seasoning
This is breakfast pizza’s wild cousin. Spread cream cheese over a lightly baked pizza crust, then sprinkle everything bagel seasoning generously. Add smoked salmon, red onions, or capers if you’re feeling fancy. It’s best on thin crust or even a bagel-style dough. Serve with a mimosa or iced coffee. Pro: great for brunch. Con: your kitchen might smell like a deli. Not necessarily a bad thing. Yes, it’s breakfast pizza. Yes, it’s ridiculous. Yes, it slaps. Bonus points if you smear it on a prebaked crust.
6. Potato Slices + Rosemary + Olive Oil
This combo is basically comfort food dressed as pizza. Thinly sliced potatoes crisp up around the edges and soak in all that herby rosemary and olive oil goodness. It’s best on a thin or medium crust, especially if baked on a pizza stone for that extra crunch. Add sea salt and black pepper for a little extra flair. Pair it with a glass of dry white wine or a lemony arugula salad. Pro: it’s like pizza and potato chips had a baby. Con: doesn’t pair great with tomato sauce. Thinly sliced potatoes crisp up into heaven. This one’s cozy comfort food and surprisingly great on a pizza crust that’s rolled thin and baked on a pizza stone.
7. Buffalo Cauliflower + Blue Cheese Crumbles
This one brings the heat. Buffalo cauliflower offers a spicy, tangy bite, and the blue cheese melts just enough to mellow it out. Best on a medium crust with a light layer of pizza sauce or even a ranch base if you’re feeling bold. Great for vegetarians and spicy food lovers. Sip it with a cold IPA or soda water with lime. Pro: it feels healthy (sort of). Con: not for blue cheese haters. Vegetarian-friendly and wildly addictive. Pairs well with regret-free seconds. Drizzle with ranch if you’re chaotic good.
8. Chorizo + Sweet Corn + Red Onion
Sweet meets spicy in the best possible way. The smoky chorizo, juicy corn, and sharp bite of red onion balance beautifully. Use pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese as your base, and go with a thick crust to handle the toppings. Pair it with a sangria or citrusy soda. Bonus tip: roast the corn first. Pro: flavor-packed. Con: might be a little oily—dab with a paper towel if needed. It’s like Mexican street corn got invited to pizza night. And it brought flavor. Trust it with a base of tomato sauce and lots of mozzarella cheese.
9. Smoked Salmon + Crème Fraîche + Dill
This is your fancy brunch pizza. Spread crème fraîche over a white pizza base, then layer with thinly sliced smoked salmon and a sprinkle of dill. Capers and red onions make it even better. Stick with a thin crust so the toppings shine. Serve with a glass of bubbly or a mimosa. Pro: elegant and light. Con: doesn’t reheat well—eat it fresh. A brunch twist you didn’t know you needed. Add capers and thank me later. Try this on a cooled white pizza base.
10. Kimchi + Bacon + Mozzarella
Welcome to flavor town. The funk of the kimchi and the saltiness of the bacon are a bold but balanced duo, mellowed out by gooey mozzarella cheese. Use pizza dough with a medium crust to support the toppings. A garlic oil base works best here. Great with a cold beer or sparkling sake. Pro: unforgettable flavor. Con: maybe not first-date food. Tangy, funky, savory magic. Perfect if you’re into bold flavors and being awesome.
11. Grilled Peach + Prosciutto + Arugula
Sweet peaches caramelized on the grill meet salty prosciutto and peppery arugula. This combo screams summer and is perfect for a thin crust brushed with olive oil. A drizzle of balsamic glaze ties it all together. Pair it with a glass of rosé and a caprese salad. Pro: super Instagrammable. Con: seasonal, so grab peaches while you can! Salty, sweet, and peppery with bonus Instagram appeal. Trust the process. A balsamic drizzle is non-negotiable.
12. Egg + Spinach + Feta
Perfect for brunch or breakfast-for-dinner, this combo brings protein, flavor, and a touch of elegance. Crack the egg in the center so the yolk stays runny. Works beautifully on a white pizza with a medium crust. Add some cherry tomatoes or olives for an extra punch. Pair with fresh-squeezed juice or a cold brew. Pro: well-balanced and hearty. Con: timing the egg can be tricky. A Mediterranean breakfast on a pizza. Crack the egg in the center and bake until just set. Great on a white pizza base.
13. Goat Cheese + Caramelized Onions + Walnuts
This one’s for the fancy cheese lovers. The tangy goat cheese, sweet onions, and crunchy walnuts play off each other beautifully. Best on a thin crust with a light layer of olive oil or white sauce. Serve it with a sparkling wine and maybe some honey on the side. Pro: flavor depth for days. Con: not everyone loves goat cheese (more for you!). Sweet, creamy, crunchy. You’re officially grown-up now.
14. BBQ Jackfruit + Red Onion + Pickles
Looking for a plant-based showstopper? This one delivers. BBQ jackfruit mimics pulled pork, while red onion adds bite and pickles bring the tang. Spread your favorite BBQ sauce on a thick crust and top generously. Best with sweet potato fries and an iced tea. Pro: vegan and delicious. Con: jackfruit texture isn’t for everyone. Pulled pork vibes without the pork. Great for your vegan bestie (or curious carnivore). Use your fave BBQ sauce as the base instead of tomato sauce.
15. Curry Sauce + Paneer + Red Peppers
Bold and flavorful, this one brings Indian flavors to pizza night. Use a creamy tikka masala-style curry sauce as your base. Paneer holds its shape and soaks up the flavor beautifully. Best on a medium or stuffed crust to hold everything. Pair it with mango lassi or a cold beer. Pro: deeply satisfying. Con: might need a fork. Spicy, cheesy, colorful. Basically an Indian feast on a crispy base. You will crave it again.
16. Avocado Slices + Hot Sauce + Lime
Simple but bold. Add the avocado after baking for a creamy, cooling effect, then drizzle with your favorite hot sauce and finish with a squeeze of lime. Great on a thin crust with a light garlic oil base. Enjoy with tortilla chips and a margarita or agua fresca. Pro: ultra-fresh and trendy. Con: doesn’t reheat well—eat it all at once! Do it after baking. Creamy, spicy, zingy—you won’t look back.
17. Roasted Beetroot + Goat Cheese + Pesto
This pizza is basically edible art. The sweet roasted beets pop against the tangy goat cheese and earthy pesto. It’s gorgeous and delicious. Use a homemade pizza dough and thin crust to let the flavors shine. Pairs perfectly with a glass of Pinot Noir or a beet salad. Pro: stunning presentation. Con: your cutting board may look like a crime scene. Looks like art. Tastes like earthy, tangy joy. Especially good on homemade pizza dough.
18. Shaved Brussels Sprouts + Pancetta + Parmesan
Crisped Brussels sprouts meet salty pancetta and nutty Parmesan in this underrated combo. It’s basically a deconstructed Caesar salad on pizza. Go with a medium crust and a white pizza base. Add cracked black pepper and a lemon wedge on the side. Pro: elevated flavors. Con: Brussels need to be finely shaved or they overpower everything. Char those sprouts for max flavor. It’s bitter meets buttery meets brilliant.
19. Apple Slices + Cheddar + Thyme
Savory meets sweet in the most delicious way. Crisp apple slices (go for Granny Smith), sharp cheddar, and fresh thyme create a balance that’s perfect on a thin crust with just a brush of olive oil. Serve with a side of arugula salad and a cider. Pro: great for fall. Con: might confuse the purists. A little sweet, a little sharp, and a little “why is this so good?” Try it on a lightly sauced base with mozzarella cheese.
20. Crab Meat + Garlic Butter + Parsley
This one’s for seafood lovers. The sweet, delicate crab meat soaked in garlic butter and topped with fresh parsley is pure decadence. Skip the red sauce—just use garlic oil or butter on a thin crust. Best with white wine or sparkling water with lemon. Pro: feels like a splurge. Con: you’ll want seconds and crab isn’t cheap. Okay, fancy pants. But seriously, it works. Use a white pizza base or just olive oil.
21. Fried Eggplant + Marinara + Ricotta
Think eggplant parm… but on a pizza. The crispy eggplant slices soak up the rich pizza sauce, while dollops of creamy ricotta balance it all out. Use a thick crust for a sturdier bite and consider finishing with fresh basil. Serve with a Caesar salad and a cold Italian soda. Pro: comfort food overload. Con: a bit messy—but worth it. It’s eggplant parm but make it pizza. Add chili flakes for heat. Don’t forget the pizza sauce base.
22. Tzatziki + Lamb + Cucumber
This one’s straight from the Mediterranean playbook. Juicy lamb, cool tzatziki, and crisp cucumber slices offer balance in every bite. Bake the lamb on a garlic oil base, then add the rest post-bake. Works best on homemade pizza dough with a medium crust. Pair with olives, hummus, and a light Greek wine. Pro: unexpected and delicious. Con: tzatziki gets runny if reheated—eat fresh. Greek gyro vibes. The cool sauce balances the rich meat like a charm. Think of it as a flatbread’s rebellious cousin.
23. Pastrami + Swiss + Pickled Onions
Channel your favorite deli sandwich—on a pizza. The tangy pickled onions cut through the richness of melted Swiss and savory pastrami. Best on a thin or medium crust with a mustard cream base or garlic oil. Try it with kettle chips and a root beer. Pro: deli flavors without the bread. Con: may divide your dinner crowd. A Reuben, reimagined. Tangy, cheesy, deli-style genius. Toasted crust required.
24. Spicy Tuna + Wasabi Mayo + Scallions
Sushi pizza? Yup—and it works. Spread spicy tuna over a baked thin crust and drizzle with wasabi mayo. Finish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds. Skip the sauce—less is more. Pair with edamame and cold sake. Pro: unique and bold. Con: absolutely a “make it fresh” situation. Sushi pizza. Sounds wrong, tastes oh-so-right. Use a thin crust and keep it simple.
25. Pulled Pork + Mac & Cheese
Yes, this exists—and yes, it’s ridiculously good. Spoon creamy mac and cheese over a layer of BBQ sauce, then pile on juicy pulled pork. Go all-in with a thick or stuffed crust. Serve with coleslaw and sweet tea. Pro: comfort food on another level. Con: you’ll probably need a nap after. The pizza version of a dare that paid off. Best served with zero shame. Base it with BBQ sauce, top with love.
Pro Tips for Topping Combos That Work
Worried you’ll ruin dinner with some experimental madness? Don’t stress. Follow these rules:
- Balance is key: If one topping is salty (bacon), pair with something sweet (caramelized onions).
- Texture matters: Crispy, creamy, chewy = perfect trifecta.
- Finish with freshness: Herbs, citrus zest, or even arugula can pull it all together.
- Bake it right: A pizza stone or steel will make your homemade pizza taste legit.
- Choose the right base: Don’t underestimate how much pizza dough or pizza crust changes the vibe.
And if it flops? That’s what garlic bread is for.
Final Thoughts: Ditch the Rules, Top the Pizza
You don’t need permission to get creative. That leftover curry? Throw it on. Those sad fridge veggies? Roast ‘em and toss ‘em on top.
Pizza is a blank canvas. And you, my friend, are the artist.
Try one of these weird-and-wonderful combos this week. Or heck, make your own and start a trend. Just promise me this:
Don’t settle for plain cheese unless you really, really mean it.
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