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15 Best Pizza Types You Must Know

Praneeth Simon

November 11, 2023

Who can resist the mouthwatering aroma of a fresh, hot pizza, straight from the oven? Pizza is a culinary wonder that has won hearts and stomachs worldwide. Whether you’re a devoted pizza aficionado or just a casual fan, you’ve probably savored a slice or two (or a whole pie) at some point in your life.

But did you know that the world of pizza is a vast and diverse one? There’s so much more to explore beyond the classic cheese and pepperoni. And if you're wondering which pizza is good, then in this blog post, we’re going to take you on a delightful pizza adventure and introduce you to some of the best pizza types you must know, especially those famous in India. From the traditional Neapolitan to the innovative California style, to India's loved Panner and Tandoori, each type of pizza offers a unique fusion of flavors and aesthetics. Prepare your palate for an enticing exploration of this gastronomic wonder!

15 Best Pizza Types You Must Know

We’ve rounded up a compilation of the best and must-try pizza varieties. This isn’t just a rundown of your usual suspects, but an exploration into regional specialties and novel concoctions. Understanding these variants not only broadens your culinary knowledge but also enhances your pizza appreciation journey. So, ready to get enlightened? Read on...

01. Paneer Tikka Pizza

Ingredients:

Pizza dough, tomato sauce, paneer (Indian cottage cheese), tikka masala sauce, bell peppers, onions, and mozzarella cheese.

Paneer Tikka Pizza is a delightful fusion of Italian and Indian flavors, making it one of the most beloved pizza types in India. This pizza seamlessly marries the creamy richness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with the smoky, spiced essence of traditional tikka.

To create this mouthwatering delight, generous chunks of paneer are marinated in a blend of yogurt and aromatic Indian spices, including cumin, coriander, and garam masala. These marinated paneer pieces are then roasted to perfection in a tandoor, infusing them with a delectable smoky flavor.

When added as a topping on a pizza, this tandoori paneer infuses a burst of flavor into every bite. It’s typically accompanied by vibrant bell peppers, onions, and a tangy tomato sauce, delivering a satisfying combination of textures and tastes.

This pizza appeals to both vegetarians and those seeking a delightful twist on the traditional pizza experience. Its unique fusion of Indian and Italian culinary traditions offers a harmonious blend of flavors, making it a top choice for pizza enthusiasts in India.

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02. Tandoori Chicken Pizza

Ingredients: Pizza dough, tomato sauce, tandoori chicken, red onions, bell peppers, and mozzarella cheese.

The next on the list is Tandoori Chicken Pizza, a delectable pizza variation that combines the best of Indian and Italian cuisines. This pizza features succulent pieces of chicken, marinated in a yogurt-based blend of spices and herbs, and then cooked to perfection in a tandoor (clay oven).

The tandoori chicken, with its smoky and aromatic notes, is used as a flavorful pizza topping, creating a unique and satisfying experience. It is typically accompanied by ingredients like bell peppers, onions, and a zesty tomato sauce.

The fusion of tandoori chicken and pizza crust results in a delightful combination of textures and flavors, with the warmth of the spices complementing the cheese and bread. This pizza option is especially favored by those who appreciate the bold flavors and succulent tenderness of tandoori cuisine.

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03. Masala Pizza

Ingredients: Pizza dough, spicy tomato sauce, onions, green chilies, cilantro, and a mix of spices.

Masala Pizza is a flavorful Indian twist on the classic Italian favorite. It incorporates a medley of aromatic spices that add a zing to every bite. This pizza variation takes the traditional pizza and infuses it with a dash of Indian masala, elevating it to a whole new level of spiciness and flavor.

The tomato sauce base is enhanced with a mix of Indian spices, including garam masala, cumin, and coriander, resulting in a rich and tangy flavor profile. Toppings can vary, but you’ll often find a combination of bell peppers, onions, and a choice of protein like chicken or paneer, all seasoned with the delectable masala blend.

Masala Pizza is a tantalizing treat for those who crave a bit of heat in their pizza. The fusion of Indian spices and Italian pizza crust creates a delightful, spicy, and savory experience that will leave your taste buds tingling.

Masala Pizza is a real favorite in India. Many pizza chains serve this Indian-style pizza, and it’s a must-try. To save some money when ordering, you can use Zomato promo codes to grab awesome discounts and find great deals.

04. Uttapam Pizza

Ingredients: Pizza dough, dosa batter, traditional uttapam toppings (e.g., onions, tomatoes, green chilies), and cheese.

Uttapam Pizza is a creative blend of South Indian and Italian cuisines, where the traditional South Indian uttapam serves as the base for a unique pizza creation. Uttapam is a savory pancake-like dish made from fermented rice and lentil batter, traditionally topped with ingredients like onions, tomatoes, and green chilies.

To make Uttapam Pizza, the uttapam is used as a crust, and traditional pizza toppings such as tomato sauce, cheese, and vegetables are added. This fusion results in a delightful mix of textures and flavors, where the soft and spongy uttapam base complements the gooey cheese and tangy sauce.

Uttapam Pizza is a beloved option for those seeking a twist on the conventional pizza experience. It offers a delightful marriage of South Indian and Italian culinary traditions, creating a unique and satisfying pizza experience.

Uttapam Pizza is a newer food craze that many people love. You can find it at local pizza shops, and you can also order it online for delivery. If you want to save some money and get special offers on this pizza, you can use Swiggy coupon codes.

05. Keema Pizza

Ingredients: Pizza dough, tomato sauce, spiced minced meat, onions, and mozzarella cheese.

Keema Pizza features spiced minced meat as its key ingredient. Keema, typically made from lamb or chicken, is cooked with a blend of Indian spices, including cumin, coriander, and red chili powder, creating a flavorful and slightly spicy filling.

When used as a pizza topping, the keema is accompanied by ingredients such as onions, bell peppers, and cheese, resulting in a rich and savory pizza. The combination of the tender, spiced meat, and the crispy crust offers a delightful contrast in textures.

Keema Pizza appeals to those who enjoy the bold and aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine. It is a fusion of Italian pizza and Indian keema, offering a unique and satisfying culinary experience that caters to meat lovers and fans of Indian spices alike.

06. Onion Pizza

Other Pizza Types Popular In India

07. Neapolitan Pizza

Ingredients: Pizza dough, San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, olive oil, and sea salt.

The first on our list of best pizza types is Neapolitan Pizza. You’ve gotta try this pizza as it’s a game-changer in the world of traditional Italian cuisine! Born from the heart and history of Naples, this pie has been gracing tables since as far back as the 18th century. Its heritage is so rich that Italy's Ministry for Cultural Heritage even declared it a safeguarded traditional food product.

The Neapolitan pizza is the best when compared to other types of pizzas, primarily due to its dough preparation; made from type 0 or 00 wheat flour, water, salt, and yeast. This combination makes an airy crust, charred with perfection on the outside but tender within.

The authenticity lies not just in the dough but also in its toppings which are simple yet flavorful. Traditional versions stick to fresh ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes grown on volcanic plains near Mount Vesuvius, creamy Buffalo mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and extra-virgin olive oil.

The cooking method used also contributes immensely to its unique taste profile. It’s cooked rapidly at high temperatures in a wood-fired oven maintaining that perfect balance between a crispy exterior and soft interior without drying out any of the authentic toppings.

When served, it’s traditionally cut into six slices where you can enjoy every bite laden with mouthwatering freshness atop a delightfully chewy base. Simply put, eating a Neapolitan pizza isn't just about savoring flavorsit's about immersing yourself in an age-old serving tradition straight from Naples itself.

08. Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

Ingredients: Thick, buttery pizza dough, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and various toppings.

If you’re a fan of hearty, filling meals, the Chicago-Style Deep Dish is just what your palate needs; with its thick crust and generous amounts of toppings, it’s a marvel in every bite! This beloved pizza variety, best-known for its flavor, traces its origins back to 1943 when the inaugural Pizzeria Uno launched in Chicago. In contrast to typical pizzas, the dough employed in this style is frequently bolstered with cornmeal or semolina, enhancing its robust flavor and texture.

This buttery base is then layered with heaps of cheese, followed by chunky tomato sauce, and finally topped off with an array of ingredient variations like pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, or bell peppers all baked into one deliciously dense dish!

The baking techniques involved in making a true Chicago-style deep dish are intricate and time-consuming but well worth the effort. With slow cooking times that allow flavors to mingle and develop fully, each slice weighs heavily not just on your plate but also on your taste buds. It's this distinctive preparation method that has contributed significantly to the dish’s significance within American culinary tradition.

Over time, this delectable treat has had quite a cultural impact too – from being synonymous with the city itself to influencing other styles of pizza across America. Despite debates about authenticity between Chicagoans and New Yorkers (who favor thin-crust), there’s no denying that this iconic delicacy holds its own as an integral part of our gastronomic landscape.

09. New York-Style Pizza

Ingredients: Thin and crispy pizza dough, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and various toppings.

Boasting a thin, foldable crust that is crisp on the outside and soft inside, the New York-Style Pizza has an irresistible charm that has led to its widespread popularity, with over 3 billion pizzas sold in America each year. The slice thickness is a defining characteristic of this pizza type – it’s neither too thick nor too thin but just enough for you to easily fold your slice without all the toppings sliding off. This style also offers a plethora of topping varieties ranging from traditional pepperoni or sausage to more gourmet options like prosciutto or arugula.

One of the sauce secrets behind this iconic pizza lies in its tomato base which provides a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity, enhancing instead of overpowering the other ingredients.

Another key component is the crust’s crispiness; achieved through high-temperature baking in brick ovens, resulting in a slightly charred yet flavorful edge that wonderfully complements every bite.

Last but not least are cheese choices – most commonly mozzarella, due to its creamy texture and mild flavor which melts beautifully onto the pie without overwhelming other flavors. With these elements combined, you get a harmonious blend of taste sensations that make New York-Style Pizzas so well-loved worldwide.

10. Sicilian Pizza

Ingredients: Thick, rectangular pizza dough, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and sometimes toppings like pepperoni or olives.

Unfolding the story of Sicilian Pizza takes us on a delightful journey to its origins in the sun-drenched landscapes of Italy, where it was first baked on the hot stones of ancient ovens. The history of Sicilian pizza is deeply rooted in tradition and carries an aura of authenticity that reflects centuries-old culinary practices.

In contrast to its thin-crust cousins, the defining characteristic of Sicilian pizza lies in its dough thickness impact – resulting in a hefty square-shaped pie with a fluffy interior and crunchy exterior. This unique shape not only allows for more toppings but also pays homage to Sicily’s rich cultural heritage, embodying both practicalityfitting more pieces into rectangular baking traysand symbolismthe square being considered divine by ancient civilizations.

The true beauty of Sicilian pizza shines through not just in its iconic form but also in the tantalizing variety of its toppings. Authentic Sicilian recipes call for fresh local ingredients like plump tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, aromatic basil leaves, succulent olives, and hearty anchovies all harmoniously layered over thick dough generously doused with olive oil.

Each bite offers an indulgent symphony of flavors that are robust yet balanced; there's a beautiful marriage between salty and sweet elements coupled with textural delight from crisp crusts giving way to soft airy centers. So whether you’re savoring an artisanal piece at a quaint pizzeria tucked away on a cobblestone street in Palermo or enjoying a homemade slice made following traditional methods – each morsel promises to be an exquisite ode to Italy’s gastronomic legacy.

11. Stuffed Crust Pizza

Ingredients: Pizza dough with cheese or other fillings (e.g., pepperoni, vegetables) stuffed into the crust.

Now, let’s take a closer look at Stuffed Crust Pizza, where things get exciting with crusts that are more than just edges they’re like hidden treasure chests filled with oozy, gooey cheese! This type of pizza is essentially an innovative take on traditional pies that adds another layer of indulgence to every bite. When it comes to crust varieties for this type, you’ll typically find options ranging from classic wheat dough to more modern interpretations like pretzels or even bacon-infused creations.

The secret behind its alluring appeal lies in the careful selection and stuffing technique of cheese into the crust. Provolone, mozzarella, cheddar these are just some cheeses commonly used due to their melt-in-your-mouth consistency when heated.

Baking techniques play a vital role in achieving the perfect balance between a crispy outer shell and a gooey interior; hence, temperature control becomes critical during preparation. As for sauce preferences, while classics such as marinara remain a popular choice, one can also opt for richer alternatives like alfredo or pesto which compliment the cheesy goodness seeping from each slice beautifully.

Topping combinations then come into play – whether you’re partial to meat-lovers specials adorned with pepperoni and sausage or prefer veggie-heavy versions topped with bell peppers and olives – there's always room for customization atop stuffed crust pizzas. If you're looking for a pizza experience that goes beyond the ordinary flatbread affair by adding depth both literally and flavor-wisestuffed crust pizza stands tall as an exciting option worth exploring!

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12. Detroit-Style Pizza

Ingredients: Thick rectangular pizza dough, a layer of cheese, tomato sauce on top, and toppings.

Detroit-Style Pizza, a pizza that’s all about crispy edges, soft insides, and loads of cheese, baked perfectly in every square corner, is a real treat! Distinguished by its distinctive square shape – a nod to its origins as an industrial parts tray pizza from Motor City’s automotive factories – it defies tradition with alluring panache.

The crust is reminiscent of focaccia; light yet firm enough to hold the heavy weight of gooey melted cheese and toppings without becoming soggy. It's this perfect balance between a crunchy crust and a fluffy interior that makes every bite of this pizza an unforgettable experience.

The joyous journey through the flavorsome layers continues as you encounter the characteristically caramelized Cheese Edges yes, not just any cheese but Wisconsin brick cheese typically found blanketing the top, inviting your fork (or fingers) for more exploration. To add even more excitement to these already tantalizing contours, Detroit-style pizzas are usually crowned with Tomato Toppings post-bake delivering both sweet and tart notes against the savoriness of other ingredients.

This unconventional addition ensures that the tomatoes retain their vibrant freshness while melding beautifully with the rest of the elements below them. All these carefully considered components combine harmoniously on your palate making you appreciate why this style has earned such adulation among pizza enthusiasts worldwide.

13. California Pizza

Ingredients: Varied and often unconventional ingredients, including gourmet toppings like arugula, goat cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Imagine a sunny vineyard, bursting with plump, ready-to-pick grapes that’s what California Pizza is like. It’s a fun twist on the classic pizza, originating in the 1980s when Californians decided to get creative with their toppings and sauces.

Instead of the usual thick crust, California Pizza goes for a thin and crispy base, and they even swap out traditional marinara sauce for options like BBQ or salsa. It’s a whole new pizza adventure!

Topping variations are practically endless on a California pizza; from smoked salmon, avocado, and goat cheese to Thai-inspired chicken with peanut sauce it's all about pushing boundaries while maintaining a perfect balance between flavors. It is this daring approach to topping combinations that have helped carve out California Pizza's unique niche within the wider world of pizza culture.

To enhance your dining experience further, pairing beverages such as fruity wines or craft beers can bring out the eclectic flavors even more vividly. So whether you're looking for something familiar yet different or simply want to treat your taste buds to an explosion of flavor, make sure a slice (or two) of a well-crafted California-style pizza graces your plate next time!

14. Greek Pizza

Ingredients: Pizza dough, olive oil, tomato sauce, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, red onions, and oregano.

Greek Pizza is a mix that’s been pleasing taste buds for ages, with a history going way back. This popular type of pizza combines Mediterranean and Italian goodies into one pie, making yummy fusion recipes that folks all over adore.

You’ll find delicious toppings like feta cheese, Kalamata olives, tomatoes, red onions, bell peppers, and sometimes herbs like oregano or basil on this pizza. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors that’s loved by food lovers everywhere.

In addition to its delicious taste profile, Greek pizza boasts health benefits that make it more than just another tasty treat. Loaded with nutritious ingredients native to the Mediterranean region such as spinach, artichokes, and lean proteins like chicken or seafood; each slice offers a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals essential for good health.

Moreover, the use of olive oil instead of butter contributes to lower levels of unhealthy fats while boosting heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous culinary journey into new flavors or simply looking for a healthier alternative to the usual fast-food options, Greek Pizza serves up an enticing blend of gourmet style and nutritional value.

15. Flatbread Pizza

Ingredients: Thin and crisp flatbread, a variety of toppings such as vegetables, meats, and cheeses.

Lastly, let’s talk about flatbread pizzas, one of the best types out there. These pizzas have thin, super crispy crusts that are like a canvas for all the tasty toppings and bold flavors. And the secret to making them just right? It begins with a simple mix of flour, water, salt, and yeast, gently kneaded into a smooth dough and left to rise.

This basic base becomes the canvas for a mouthwatering masterpiece. And when it’s time to bake, these flatbread pizzas love the heat high temperatures make the edges wonderfully crispy while keeping the center nice and tender.

Flatbread toppings are vast and varied with options ranging from traditional favorites like fresh tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella cheese to more adventurous combinations such as figs with prosciutto or pear with gorgonzola. Sauce variations play a significant role too – from classic tomato paste enriched with herbs and garlic to creamy white sauce or even pesto for added zestiness.

Cheese selection also contributes significantly towards defining your final product: think gooey melted mozzarella for a comforting indulgence or sharp blue cheese for an unexpected kick. Each ingredient should marry well together on top of that sublime crust, offering up bites filled not only with incredible texture but also layers upon layers of delectable flavor profiles.

‘Reasons Why These Pizzas Are The Best’

These pizzas are considered the best due to their unique flavors, quality of ingredients, and their traditional or innovative cooking methods. Each type has a distinct taste profile, from the cheesy goodness of Margherita and the spicy kick of Diavola to the freshness of Hawaiian and the meaty delight of Pepperoni. The ingredients used are always of the highest quality, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite.

The dough is often handcrafted and the toppings are carefully chosen to create a perfect balance. Moreover, the cooking methods add another layer of uniqueness. For instance, Neapolitan pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven, giving it a smoky flavor that’s hard to replicate. On the other hand, New York-style pizza is hand-tossed and cooked in electric ovens, resulting in a thin, crispy crust.

Regardless of your preference, these pizzas have a rich combination of flavors, textures, and aromas that make them stand out, making them the best in the world.

Types of Pizza Flavors

There are numerous pizza flavors to suit various preferences. Some popular pizza flavors include:

• Margherita: A classic with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and olive oil.
• Pepperoni: Topped with pepperoni slices and cheese, a beloved choice.
• Hawaiian: Combines ham and pineapple for a sweet and savory flavor.
• Vegetarian: Loaded with a variety of vegetables like peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives.
• Meat Lovers: Packed with various meat toppings such as sausage, bacon, pepperoni, and ground beef.
• BBQ Chicken: Features barbecue sauce, chicken, red onions, and cheese for a tangy twist.
• Buffalo Chicken: Spicy chicken, buffalo sauce, and blue cheese or ranch dressing.
• Supreme: A combination of multiple toppings, including pepperoni, sausage, peppers, onions, and olives.
• White Pizza: No tomato sauce, but typically includes ricotta cheese, garlic, and herbs.
• Mediterranean: Incorporates ingredients like feta cheese, olives, tomatoes, and Greek seasoning.
• Pesto: Pesto sauce, often with ingredients like chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and artichoke hearts.
• Taco Pizza: Features taco-seasoned meat, lettuce, tomatoes, and often a drizzle of sour cream.
• BBQ Pulled Pork: Slow-cooked pulled pork with barbecue sauce and cheese.
• Breakfast Pizza: Usually has eggs, bacon or sausage, and cheese, ideal for morning cravings.
• Dessert Pizza: A sweet treat with toppings like Nutella, fruit, or chocolate.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the nutritional differences among these pizza types?
The nutritional differences among pizza types depend on factors like crust thickness, sauce used, cheese varieties and toppings. A thin-crust veggie pizza has fewer calories compared to a thick-crust meat lover’s pizza due to the calorie comparison from crust impact and topping influence. Different sauces can also affect nutrition; for instance, tomato-based sauces usually have fewer calories than cream-based ones. The type of cheese changes the fat content – mozzarella is lower in fat than cheddar.

2. Which type of pizza is considered the most traditional?
The Margherita pizza is considered the most traditional type. Originating from Naples, Italy, it’s a simple yet flavorful variety characterized by its round shape, thin crust variation, authentic ingredients of fresh basil, mozzarella cheese selection impact and tomato sauce option. Its simplicity lets each ingredient shine through.

3. How does the baking process differ among these pizza types?
The baking process differs among pizza types based on crust variations, ingredient ratios, oven type and timing differences. For example, thin-crust Neapolitan pizzas bake quickly at high temperatures in a wood-fired oven whereas deep-dish Chicago style pizzas require a longer cooking time at lower temperatures in regular ovens. The variation of ingredients also impacts the baking temperature and duration.

4. Are there any unique or unusual toppings associated with each type of pizza?
Yes, different types of pizzas often have unique toppings associated with them. For example, Chicago-style pizza typically features a chunky tomato sauce and lots of cheese, while New York-style pizza is known for its thin crust topped with traditional ingredients like mozzarella and tomatoes. Unconventional toppings can include anything from eggs to pineapple depending on regional variations. Some places even offer seafood pizzas or vegetarian alternatives with creative topping combinations such as artichokes, olives, and bell peppers.

5. How many types of pizza are there in India?
India offers a wide variety of pizza flavors, including regional and fusion options. Some common types include Margherita, Veggie Supreme, and more. The exact number of varieties can be extensive.

6. What is the best pizza flavor in India?
In India, pizza flavors like Paneer Tikka, Tandoori Chicken, and Butter Chicken are popular. The “best” flavor is subjective, so try different options to discover your personal favorite.

7. Which pizza is considered the best to eat?
The choice of the best pizza depends on personal preferences. Some popular options include Margherita, Pepperoni, and Supreme, but the “best” pizza varies from person to person. Explore different varieties to find your favorite.

Conclusion

Like an art lover appreciating a Picasso, exploring the best pizza types is a journey of culinary delight. The golden crusts and tantalizing toppings offer a symphony of flavors that make each bite an experience to savor. From the classic Neapolitan to the innovative California style, these pizzas represent diverse cuisines across the globe.

Whether it’s the deep-filled joy of Chicago-style or the rustic charm of Flatbread pizza, every type brings its unique taste and presentation into play. It's high time you embarked on this delicious voyage through some of history’s finest creations.

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