The Best Alfredo Pizza Toppings are grilled chicken, bacon, and fresh spinach. This trio creates an irresistible blend of flavors that's simply divine.
I like to eat pizza a lot, and I like to try new pizza recipes. I have spent much time trying new ideas for the Alfredo base. But it’s not that easy to find the perfect mix.
With its rich, creamy texture and subtle garlic undertones, Alfredo sauce demands toppings that match its decadence without overpowering it. It’s a balancing act that can leave many pizza lovers puzzled.
I’ve experimented with mozzarella, parmesan, and savory meats to guide you on the best Alfredo pizza toppings.
However, we’re about to embark on a flavor-packed adventure that will transform your pizza nights into an epicurean delight.
What Are The Best Alfredo Pizza Toppings?
Everyone has their tweaks to this basic homemade pizza recipe. Some go heavy on the sauce, while others add toppings like diced cooked chicken, chopped artichoke hearts, black olives, fresh mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, etc.
Here I will talk about the 20 mouthwatering and nutritious Alfredo pizza toppings.
1. Spinach
Spinach is a superb choice for an Alfredo pizza topping. It brings a vibrant pop of green color and an earthy flavor that beautifully complements the creamy Alfredo sauce.
How to use them?
- To prepare, it is preferable if you can use fresh spinach, but wash and dry it properly to avoid a soggy pizza.
- Do not cook spinach beforehand. It wilts perfectly in the oven. Just sprinkle it on top of your other toppings before baking.
- Try it with grilled chicken or bacon for a delightful mix of flavors, or go vegetarian with bell peppers and mushrooms.
- Spinach brings a mild, slightly bitter flavor that balances the richness of the Alfredo sauce. It’s a subtle addition that makes a difference to your pizza experience.
Nutrient Value:
Spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. It’s an excellent source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K1, Folic acid, Iron, and Calcium. It also has several essential plant compounds, such as lutein, kaempferol, nitrates, quercetin, and zeaxanthin.
| Nutrient | Value per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 23 |
| Water | 91% |
| Protein | 2.9 grams |
| Carbs | 3.6 grams |
| Sugar | 0.4 grams |
| Fiber | 2.2 grams |
| Fat | 0.4 grams |
Health Benefits:
These compounds improve eye health, decrease the risk of cancer and chronic diseases, promote heart health, ward off infection and inflammation, and combat oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress can trigger accelerated aging and increase the risk of cancer and diabetes, and the antioxidants in spinach help reduce the damage it causes
2. Sun-dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes are a delightful addition, offering a concentrated burst of sweet-tart flavor that pairs excellently with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- To use them, rehydrate in warm water for a few minutes, then chop and sprinkle over your pizza before baking.
- Sun-dried tomatoes provide numerous health benefits. They are packed with lycopene, a potent antioxidant, and are good dietary fiber, potassium, and magnesium sources.
- While there’s no specific Alfredo pizza recipe using sun-dried tomatoes, experimentation with quantities can help you find the best balance for your palate.
- It might not appeal to everyone because sun-dried tomatoes are rich.
- The nutritional profile of sun-dried tomatoes per 100g is as follows:
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 258 |
| Protein | 14.1g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 55.76g |
| Fiber | 12.3g |
| Sugars | 38.47g |
| Vitamin C | 39.2mg |
| Potassium | 3427mg |
| Calcium | 110mg |
| Iron | 9.1mg |
3. Basil Leaves
Basil leaves are an excellent addition to your Alfredo pizza. It adds a fresh and aromatic flavor that complements the creamy richness of the Alfredo sauce.
It’s very simple to add basil leaves to your pizza. You can add them whole or chopped and bake them on medium heat. Also, you can add them before or after the pizza is baked.
Basil is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. It is an excellent vitamin K, A, and manganese source, providing vitamin C, calcium, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Apart from taste, basil has several health benefits. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may also have antimicrobial effects against various bacteria, yeasts, molds, and viruses.
4. Cheese
Creating a flavorful Alfredo pizza is an art; the secret lies in choosing cheese. A Feta, Parmesan, and Mozzarella trio can elevate your pizza to gourmet status. Here’s why you should give it a try.
- Feta Cheese: A tangy choice, Feta cuts through the creamy Alfredo base and offers a contrasting taste. To use, crumble the Feta and sprinkle it evenly over your sauced pizza dough before baking. Feta is a good source of calcium and provides beneficial probiotics for gut health.
- Parmesan Cheese: Its nutty flavor adds complexity to the Alfredo pizza. Finely grate Parmesan over the pizza after baking for a delightful crunch. It’s packed with protein and essential vitamins like calcium and vitamin B12.
- Mozzarella Cheese: The outstanding pizza cheese, Mozzarella gives the desirable stretchy, melty quality. It’s my personal favorite of all. Distribute sliced or shredded Mozzarella evenly before baking for a beautiful cheese pull. Mozzarella is low in sodium and high in calcium, making it heart-healthy.
Here’s a quick look at the nutrient values of these cheeses:
| Cheese Type | Calcium (%DV) | Protein (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feta | 14% | 4 | 315 |
| Parmesan | 33% | 10 | 433 |
| Mozzarella | 20% | 6 | 147 |
5. Mushrooms
Adding mushrooms to your Alfredo pizza takes it up a notch in flavor and nutrition. Mushrooms pair exceptionally well with the creamy Alfredo base, creating a culinary masterpiece.
Here’s the lowdown on why and how you can use them:
- Flavorful: Mushrooms provide a unique umami flavor that complements the Alfredo sauce.
- Texturally Pleasing: They add a satisfying, meaty texture to each bite of your pizza.
- Preparation: Sauté mushrooms in olive oil until golden for the best flavor before adding them to your pizza.
- Versatile: You can use a variety of mushrooms, such as button, cremini, or portobello, to add different flavors.
- Low in Calories: Mushrooms are low in calories, making them a healthy topping choice.
- Nutrient-Rich: They’re packed with nutrients, including vitamins D and B, selenium, and potassium.
- Antioxidants: Mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants supporting overall health.
6. Red peppers
Adding red peppers to your Alfredo pizza enhances the flavor and contributes to a healthy, colorful, and visually appealing meal.
These colorful veggies bring a sweet, slightly smoky taste that pairs excellently with the creamy Alfredo base.
Red peppers offer a sweet counterpoint to the rich Alfredo sauce. Their vibrant color adds an appealing visual contrast to your pizza.
Here’s why and how you can use them:
- Preparation: Slice them thinly for a tender bite and evenly distribute them over your pizza before baking.
- Versatility: You can use fresh or roasted, each with a different flavor profile.
- Vitamin-Rich: Red peppers are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, boosting your immune health.
- Diet-Friendly: They are low in calories and fiber, making them a diet-friendly topping choice.
Here’s a brief look at the nutrient content:
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g of Red Peppers |
|---|---|
| Calories | 31 |
| Vitamin C | 127.7 mg |
| Fiber | 2.1 g |
7. Garlic Powder
Garlic powder can genuinely make your Alfredo pizza shine. It is a secret weapon you might not have considered. This handy spice can take your pizza from good to great quickly.
- Garlic powder enhances Alfredo pizza’s flavor. It adds a savory depth to the rich, creamy sauce.
- It’s an easy substitute for fresh garlic. It will save prep time without compromising taste.
- Lightly dust it over the toppings before baking. And it will give your pizza a beautiful golden-brown glow.
- It’s versatile – try mixing it into the Alfredo sauce or the pizza dough for a flavor boost.
- A little goes a long way, so sprinkle sparingly to avoid overpowering the other toppings.
| Health Benefits | Nutrient Value |
|---|---|
| Heart-friendly | High in allicin |
| Boosts immunity | Packed with antioxidants |
| Good for digestion | Full of dietary fiber |
| Strengthens bones | Rich in Vitamin B6 and manganese |
8. Sausage
Sausage will enhance your culinary experience in many ways. You can choose the sausage based on your preference for spiciness, flavor, texture, and how well the sausage pairs with other toppings you plan to use.
The sausage adds a savory punch to the mild, creamy Alfredo base. It creates a perfect balance of flavors. It provides a delightful texture contrast, complementing the smoothness of the sauce and the gooey cheese.
To ensure every bite is meaty and flavorful, spread the pre-cooked sausage slices evenly over the pizza. Slice your chosen sausage thinly for even cooking and distribution of flavor.
Italian sausage perfectly complements Alfredo sauce with its blend of herbs and spices. But feel free to experiment with other varieties like chorizo or bratwurst.
There are no restrictions on what kind of sausages you can use. You can also use Ground Sausage, Turkey, Italian Pork and Fennel Sausage, Pepperoni, Kielbasa Sausage, Chorizo, or whatever you want.
9. Asparagus
Asparagus is a powerhouse of nutrients, adding a healthy touch to your Alfredo pizza. The subtle, earthy taste of asparagus complements the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Roast the asparagus before adding it to the pizza. You can caramelize it in sugar, elevating its taste to a new level.
- To ensure even cooking and a pleasing texture, thinly slice asparagus stalks.
- Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus. It can add a savory depth of flavor.
- Carefully add the asparagus halfway through the baking process to prevent it from overcooking.
Now, let’s take a quick peek at the health benefits and nutritional values of asparagus:
| Nutrient | Amount Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 20 |
| Protein | 2.2g |
| Fiber | 2.1g |
| Vitamin C | 5.6mg (9% of DV) |
| Vitamin K | 41.6mcg (52% of DV) |
| Folate | 52mcg (13% of DV) |
10. Broccoli
Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals, making your indulgence guilt-free. This veggie adds a healthy crunch to your pizza, contrasting beautifully with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
It’s a delightful twist on a classic dish, adding not just a pop of color but a wealth of nutrition too.
- To maintain its color and crunch, avoid broccoli before using it as a topping while ensuring it’s cooked just right.
- To maximize flavor, you can sauté the broccoli in garlic and olive oil before adding it to your pizza.
- Add broccoli toward the end of the baking to avoid overcooking and losing its vibrant color.
- A sprinkle of crushed red pepper can add a spicy kick to the mild flavor of broccoli.
Check out the nutritional profile and health benefits of broccoli:
| Nutrient | Amount Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 55 |
| Protein | 3.7g |
| Fiber | 2.4g |
| Vitamin C | 89.2mg (149% of DV) |
| Vitamin K | 101.6mcg (127% of DV) |
| Folate | 63mcg (16% of DV) |
11. Artichoke hearts
Artichoke hearts provide a unique, slightly tangy flavor that complements the creaminess of Alfredo sauce. They’re a good source of fiber, adding a nutritional boost to your pizza.
Their unique, slightly tangy flavor balances perfectly with Alfredo’s creamy richness.
How to use them Deliciously?
- Drain and pat dry, canned artichoke hearts before use to avoid a soggy pizza.
- Thin slices of artichoke hearts ensure even cooking and better integration with other toppings.
- If you saute them in garlic and olive oil before adding them to the pizza, enhance their flavor.
- Marinating artichoke hearts in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before adding them to the pizza can add an extra layer of flavor.
Do not forget the health benefits and nutritional values of artichoke hearts:
| Nutrient | Amount Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 47 |
| Protein | 3.3g |
| Fiber | 5.4g |
| Vitamin C | 7.4mg (12% of DV) |
| Vitamin K | 14.8mcg (18% of DV) |
| Folate | 68mcg (17% of DV) |
12. Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and fiber, making your pizza a healthier choice. The distinct flavor of Brussels sprouts contrasts nicely with the Alfredo sauce, adding a new depth to your pizza.
It may sound unconventional, but this combination combines Alfredo sauce’s creamy richness with Brussels sprouts’ hearty, slightly bitter flavor.
If you halve or quarter the Brussels sprouts, it will ensure they cook evenly and integrate well with other toppings. You can also roast the Brussels sprouts in olive oil and a bit of salt before adding them to the pizza. It brings out their natural sweetness.
Add Brussels sprouts at the beginning of the baking process. It ensures they get adequately roasted and caramelized. Also, a dash of red pepper flakes can add heat to balance Brussels sprouts’ hearty flavor.
13. Bell pepper
Bell peppers add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft, gooey texture of the pizza. It makes an excellent addition to your Alfredo pizza for several reasons. Their mild, sweet flavor is a superb complement to the creamy Alfredo sauce.
These veggies are packed with nutritional benefits. A regular-size bell pepper contains just 31 calories. Its little fat offers a dose of fiber and protein, making your pizza a bit healthier and tasty.
Here’s a simple way to prep bell peppers for your pizza:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Slice the bell peppers, spread them on a baking sheet, and drizzle with olive oil.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper for seasoning.
- Roast in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until the peppers are slightly charred.
- Let them cool slightly before adding them to your pizza toppings.
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of bell peppers, making them even more delicious on your Alfredo pizza. So next time you make an Alfredo pizza, don’t forget to add some bell peppers for that extra flavor and crunch.
14. Creamy pesto
With its creamy, savory sauce, Alfredo pizza is a perfect canvas for creamy pesto’s bold and aromatic flavors. You can transform an ordinary Alfredo pizza into an irresistible culinary delight layered with complexity and flavor.
- Start with a quality crust. A good pizza begins with the foundation – the crust. Whether homemade or store-bought, choose one sturdy enough to handle the creamy Alfredo and pesto sauce.
- Pre-bake your crust. Brush your crust with olive oil, sprinkle it with coarse salt, and pre-bake it at 450 degrees for 15-20 minutes. This step helps to ensure that your crust will be crispy and able to support the weight of the toppings.
- Combine Alfredo sauce and pesto. While your crust is pre-baking, stir Alfredo sauce and creamy pesto in a small saucepan over medium heat. This blend adds depth to your pizza.
- Dress your pizza. Spread the Alfredo-pesto mixture onto the crust once your crust is pre-baked and your sauce is blended. Before baking, add your preferred toppings, such as cheese, chicken, or veggies.
15. Chicken
Chicken is a versatile ingredient rich in protein and a fantastic topping on your chicken Alfredo pizza recipe. Preparing the chicken for your Alfredo pizza is simple. You can use either leftover rotisserie chicken or cook some ahead of time.
- To distribute evenly across the pizza, shred the chicken breast. It will ensure every bite is filled with its rich flavor.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper before adding it to the pizza to enhance its natural flavors.
- If you want a flavor boost, press or mince two fresh garlic cloves and mix them with the shredded chicken before adding them to the pizza. The garlic gives a savory punch that pairs beautifully with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Too much could overwhelm the other flavors and make the pizza too heavy. 2 cups of shredded chicken is enough for 1 pizza.
- Finally, always add the chicken topping after the pizza has been sauced and before the cheese. This order ensures the chicken gets heated evenly in the oven and stays moist under the layer of cheese.
16. Bacon
A beloved ingredient worldwide, Bacon can make a surprisingly delightful addition to Alfredo pizza. It gives a smoky flavor that complements the creamy, comforting taste of the Alfredo sauce.
Here’s a guide on how to create a more delicious Alfredo pizza with bacon:
- Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F to bake the pizza.
- Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into your desired shape and size. Pre-cook it for about 10 minutes until it’s no longer doughy.
- Spread Alfredo sauce evenly over the pre-cooked dough, leaving about half an inch of space at the edges.
- Sprinkle evenly cooked bacon over the sauce. The bacon’s salty and fatty punch can help cut through the richness of the Alfredo sauce and provide a balanced flavor.
- Sprinkle cheese evenly over the pizza and cook for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Add ingredients like shredded chicken or fresh spinach to make your Alfredo pizza with bacon even more delicious once it’s done cooking.
These additional toppings can provide further contrast and depth of flavor to the pizza.
Here’s a quick look at bacon’s nutritional value:
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 161 |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.1g |
| Trans Fat | 0.1g |
| Sodium | 581mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 0.6g |
| Protein | 12g |
17. Ricotta
Ricotta cheese as a topping on your Alfredo pizza can give it a delightful twist. It adds a creamy, smooth texture and a slightly sweet taste complements the Alfredo sauce’s savory flavors.
Ricotta cheese, being mild and creamy, blends well with the rich and creamy Alfredo sauce. When you add ricotta to your Alfredo pizza, mix it with the Alfredo sauce before spreading it on the pizza base. Or you can dollop spoonfuls of ricotta onto the pizza after the Alfredo sauce.
Ricotta is also versatile. So you can combine it with other toppings like spinach, mushrooms, or grilled chicken to create a more complex flavor profile.
You can consider using whole milk ricotta for a creamier texture and richer flavor. If you want a lighter option, use part-skim ricotta, which has less fat but still delivers a creamy taste.
18. Red pepper flakes
Alfredo pizza is known for its delectable combination of garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese. But did you know adding red pepper flakes can elevate your Alfredo pizza experience to a new level?
Pepper flakes add a kick of heat and contrast beautifully with the creamy Alfredo sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
- First, add red pepper flakes sparingly to avoid overpowering the other flavors.
- Use it as a topping after the pizza has been cooked. This helps to preserve the heat and flavor of the flakes.
- I’ve always crushed the flakes in my hand before sprinkling them to release the oils to maximize the flavor.
- You can also sauté the flakes in oil before adding them for a more intense flavor.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of pepper flakes for varied flavors and heat levels.
- Pair red pepper flakes with other toppings like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a complementary flavor profile.
As for the health benefits and nutritional value of red pepper flakes:
| Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
| Metabolism Boost | Capsaicin in red pepper flakes can increase metabolism. |
| Rich in Antioxidants | They are high in antioxidants which help to fight harmful free radicals in the body. |
| Anti-Inflammatory | Capsaicin has anti-inflammatory properties. |
19. Green onions/ Scallions
Green onions, also known as scallions, are a versatile ingredient that can truly enhance the flavor of Alfredo pizzas. Green onions’ mild, sweet flavor and crunchy texture add a fresh contrast to the rich, creamy Alfredo sauce.
It’s best to add green onions after baking the pizza to retain their crispiness. Thinly slice the green onions to distribute the flavor evenly. Don’t forget to use the onion’s green and white parts to mix the flavors.
Consider grilling or sautéing the green onions before adding them for added complexity. It pairs well with other toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, and chicken.
So, quickly sprinkle fresh green onions to bring color, texture, and flavor to your favorite pizza.
Here are some health benefits and nutritional values associated with green onions:
| Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
| Low in Calories | Green onions have a low-calorie count, making them a healthy addition. |
| High in Vitamins | They are rich in vitamins A, C, and K. |
| Antioxidant Properties | Green onions contain antioxidants that may help protect your body from damage by free radicals. |
20. Sauce (Alfredo, Tomato, and White)
While Alfredo sauce is the traditional choice for Alfredo pizza, adding tomato sauce or white sauce can provide an exciting twist to the flavor.
Each of these sauces brings a unique flavor profile that can complement Alfredo pizza’s creamy and cheesy characteristics.
- Alfredo sauce: With its rich, creamy, and cheesy flavor, Alfredo sauce is the classic choice for Alfredo pizza. Spread it evenly as the base layer on your pizza dough for a classic Alfredo pizza.
- Tomato sauce: It adds a tangy contrast to the creaminess of the Alfredo sauce. You can layer tomato sauce under the Alfredo sauce for a multi-dimensional flavor.
- White sauce: White sauce, or béchamel, can bring a mild, creamy taste that blends well with other ingredients. Use it as a secondary layer over the Alfredo sauce for a milder, creamy addition.
- Combination: Combine Alfredo sauce, tomato sauce, and white sauce in equal proportions for a rich and complex flavor. Adjust the amount and order of the sauces according to your preference to create a customized flavor for your pizza.
| Sauce | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Alfredo | High in calcium due to its cheese and cream content. |
| Tomato | Rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. |
| White (Béchamel) | Contains calcium and vitamin A from the milk. |
How to Make Homemade Alfredo Sauce for Pizza?
Creating homemade Alfredo sauce for pizza has been one of my favorite culinary adventures. It’s so easy than it sounds. You can make a rich, creamy sauce with simple ingredients that’s far tastier than store-bought sauce.
Plus, making it at home allows you to control the ingredients, which is great if you’re mindful of nutrition.
Here’s my simple method:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- A pinch of black pepper
Instructions:
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Once the butter is completely melted, add the heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Add the minced garlic to the mixture and cook for about 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
- Lower the heat and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted into the sauce.
- Season the sauce with a pinch of black pepper or to taste.
- Your homemade Alfredo sauce is ready to be spread on your pizza dough. Use immediately, or store for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
FAQs
Q. What meat goes well with Alfredo sauce?
With a rich, creamy character, Alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with chicken and seafood. Grilled chicken is a classic choice, its smoky flavor complementing the sauce’s creaminess. Try thinly sliced steak or Italian sausage if you prefer red meat.
Q. What toppings are good on a white pizza?
With its rich and creamy sauce base, white pizza can be topped with various ingredients.
1. For a bold flavor, consider mozzarella, fontina, or a touch of blue cheese.
2. Regarding vegetables, spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, and artichoke hearts are all excellent options.
3. Grilled chicken or bacon can be great additions if you love meat.
4. Sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach add color and freshness.
5. For cheese, try mozzarella or ricotta for its mild, creamy flavor.
6. Sprinkling fresh basil, rosemary, or parsley adds an aromatic touch.
Q. Is pizza with Alfredo sauce good?
Yes, pizza with Alfredo sauce is delicious. It offers a creamy alternative to the traditional tomato-based pizza.
The Alfredo sauce provides a rich and cheesy foundation that blends wonderfully with toppings like grilled chicken and bacon.
It’s particularly good with veggies like spinach or a mix of sautéed vegetables. Remember to use the sauce in moderation to avoid overwhelming the other flavors.
Conclusion
Well, we’ve explored the delicious world of Alfredo pizza toppings together. The best Alfredo pizza is all about balance and variety. The creamy, rich Alfredo sauce is a beautiful canvas for many toppings.
From savory meats to fresh veggies to chicken and spinach, your Alfredo pizza is an opportunity to get creative.
So, why not step out of your comfort zone? Try that unconventional topping you’ve been curious about. You might stumble upon your new favorite combination.
All left is to preheat the oven, gather your favorite toppings, and embark on your Alfredo pizza journey.
Ella Foster, co-founder of FoodBears.com, is a skilled writer whose love for cooking fuels her creative work. Her passion for experimenting in the kitchen brings authentic flavor and culinary inspiration to every piece she crafts for the platform.
