Planning a pizza party can be exciting and challenging. We all know pizza is the main attraction, but adding the right sides can elevate the entire experience.
What should you serve alongside those delicious slices to make your party memorable?
I’ve compiled a list of 15 pizza party menu ideas that will delight your guests. From appetizers to desserts, these ideas will help you create a menu that complements your pizza perfectly.
1. Margherita Pizza – Fresh Basil and Mozzarella
Making Margherita pizza for parties is great because it’s simple yet full of flavor. To start, I spread a light tomato sauce over the pizza dough, leaving a border around the edges.
Next, I add fresh mozzarella. The cheese melts beautifully and gives the pizza a creamy texture.
Once the mozzarella is on, I place the pizza in a preheated oven at 450°F. The crust turns golden in about 10-12 minutes, and the cheese melts just right.
When the pizza comes out, I immediately top it with fresh basil leaves. The basil adds a beautiful, aromatic touch that’s hard to resist. Sometimes, I like to sprinkle a few red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough
- Tomato sauce
- Fresh mozzarella
- Fresh basil
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
This fresh mozzarella and basil combination makes Margherita pizza a hit at any party. Plus, making multiple pizzas at once is easy, so nobody has to wait long for a slice.
2. Pepperoni Pizza – Classic favorite
Pepperoni pizza is a crowd-pleaser. Every time I host a pizza party, it’s a must-have. It’s simple, tasty, and always a hit.
The key to a great pepperoni pizza is the quality of the pepperoni and cheese. I always choose a spicy, flavorful pepperoni and lots of gooey mozzarella.
To make the perfect pepperoni pizza, I follow a few simple steps:
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the dough.
- Top with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese.
- Add plenty of pepperoni slices.
Baking it until golden brown and bubbly ensures the best taste and crispiness.
Pepperoni pizza is versatile, too. You can add extra toppings like mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers. The classic combination, though, is just pepperoni and cheese.
I always make sure I have enough for everyone. There’s never a slice left after the party!
3. BBQ Chicken Pizza – Tangy and sweet
BBQ Chicken Pizza is one of my favorite party foods. The tangy BBQ sauce mixed with tender chicken and melted cheese always hits the spot. The red onion adds a bit of crunch, while the fresh cilantro gives it a refreshing finish.
Tips:
- Bake at 450°F for 14-15 minutes for a perfect crust.
- Add a mix of mozzarella and cheddar cheese for a richer flavor.
- If you like a crispy crust, rotate the pizza halfway through baking.
Ingredients:
- Cooked chicken breast
- BBQ sauce
- Mozzarella cheese
- Cheddar cheese
- Red onion
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 450°F.
- Spread BBQ sauce over the pizza dough.
- Scatter cooked chicken, red onion, and cheese over the sauce.
- Bake for 14-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- If desired, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top.
This pizza is always a hit at my gatherings. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. Make sure to give it a try at your next party!
4. Vegetarian Pizza – Loaded with Vibrant Veggies
One of my favorite pizza options has to be vegetarian pizza.
Imagine a crispy, golden crust topped with a rich tomato sauce and a rainbow of veggies. Bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives, and artichokes combine to create flavor in every bite.
You can also add fresh basil or spinach for a pop of green. These ingredients not only taste great but also add a boost of nutrients.
Here are some tips to make it even better:
- Use fresh veggies: They bring out the best taste.
- Don’t overload: Too many toppings can make the pizza soggy.
- Pre-cook tougher veggies: Things like broccoli and cauliflower.
Ingredient Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pizza Dough | 1 ball |
| Tomato Sauce | 1 cup |
| Bell Peppers | 1 cup |
| Onions | 1 cup |
| Mushrooms | 1 cup |
| Olives | 1/2 cup |
| Artichokes | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh Basil | 1/4 cup |
Preheat your oven to 500°F and let the stone or sheet get hot. Cook until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden.
5. Buffalo Chicken Pizza – Spicy and savory
Buffalo Chicken Pizza is a favorite at my parties. It combines the spicy heat of buffalo sauce with the savory goodness of chicken and cheese.
I like to start by preparing the dough. Rolling it out to a perfect circle is critical.
Ingredients:
- Dough
- Buffalo sauce
- Shredded chicken
- Mozzarella cheese
- Blue cheese (optional)
First, spread buffalo sauce evenly over the dough.
Next, add shredded chicken. I usually use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Then, sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese all over the pizza.
For extra tang, I sometimes add crumbled blue cheese.
Baking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza is spicy, savory, and always a hit. It brings a bit of zest to any pizza party!
6. Supreme Pizza – Everything on it
I love a supreme pizza because it offers a taste of everything. It combines meats, veggies, and cheeses, creating a mouthwatering blend.
Common Toppings:
- Pepperoni: A classic favorite, it adds a spicy kick.
- Sausage: Savory and hearty.
- Bell Peppers: Red, yellow, green, add a nice crunch.
- Mushrooms: Tender and earthy.
Followed by:
- Onions: They can be sweet or slightly sharp.
- Black Olives: Salty and briny.
- Bacon or Ham: Adds a smoky taste.
I also like adding one or two less common toppings, like zucchini or meatballs.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought:
Making supreme pizza at home is fun, but store-bought options are great, too. For instance, the Kirkland Signature Supreme Cauliflower Crust Pizza is a good choice from Costco. It’s packed with veggies and meats at a reasonable price.
Here’s a quick table comparing costs:
| Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Homemade Supreme Pizza | $3.18 per pizza |
| Grocery Store Take & Bake | $5.00 |
| Frozen from Store | $4.29 |
| Pizza Hut Supreme Pizza | $18.99 |
You can create or choose the perfect supreme pizza for your party using these tips and ideas.
7. Hawaiian Pizza – Ham and Pineapple
Hawaiian Pizza is a real crowd-pleaser at any pizza party. The classic combination of ham and sweet pineapple makes it a favorite for many.
I like to start with good pizza dough. You can make it from scratch or use store-bought. Preheat the oven to 475°F.
Once the dough is ready, spread your favorite pizza sauce evenly, leaving a small border.
Next, I add a generous amount of mozzarella cheese. The cheese is vital to a great pizza.
Then, top with slices of ham and pineapple chunks. This mix of salty and sweet is what makes Hawaiian Pizza unique.
Bake for 12-14 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Pro tip: Lightly sprinkle some Italian seasoning over the top for extra flavor before baking.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Pizza dough: homemade or store-bought
- Sauce: spread evenly
- Mozzarella cheese: a generous amount
- Toppings: ham and pineapple
- Bake: 12-14 minutes at 475°F
Enjoy making and sharing this tasty Hawaiian Pizza with your friends and family!
8. Meat Lovers Pizza – Packed with Protein
One of the best types of pizza for a party is the Meat Lovers Pizza. It’s a favorite because it’s hearty and packed with protein. I always make sure to include a variety of meats to please everyone’s taste buds.
For my Meat Lovers Pizza, I like to use:
- Sausage
- Bacon
- Pepperoni
- Ham
- Ground beef
Each of these meats adds a unique flavor and protein boost.
First, I cook the sausage until it’s browned and crispy. Then, I cook the bacon and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
Next, roll out the pizza dough and spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Finally, spread all the cooked meats evenly over the cheese. Sometimes, I add a bit of Italian seasoning for an extra kick.
Here’s a quick tip: Preheat your oven to 500°F and use a pizza stone if you have one. This helps the crust get nice and crispy.
Ingredients:
- 2 links of Italian sausage
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped
- ½ cup of sliced pepperoni
- ½ cup of chopped ham
- ½ cup of cooked ground beef
- Pizza sauce
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Pizza dough
- Italian seasoning (optional)
I love how easy it is to put this together. It’s always a hit at parties!
9. Four Cheese Pizza – Cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, and gorgonzola
Four Cheese Pizza is always a hit at any party.
I like to use cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, and gorgonzola for various flavors.
Here’s how to make it:
- Preheat your oven to 550°F (or as high as it can go) with a baking stone inside.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough.
- Brush the dough with a bit of olive oil.
Next, sprinkle:
- Shredded cheddar
- Mozzarella
- Grated parmesan
- Crumbled gorgonzola
Using a pizza peel, transfer the pizza onto the hot stone.
Bake for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the crust golden.
Tip: For an extra touch, add some fresh basil after baking.
10. White Pizza – Garlic and ricotta
One of my favorite pizzas is the garlic and ricotta white pizza. This pizza skips the traditional tomato sauce and mixes creamy ricotta and fresh garlic.
First, preheat the oven to 450°F. Roll out your pizza dough into a 12-inch circle.
Brush the surface with olive oil. Sprinkle minced garlic evenly over the dough.
Next, drop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese onto the dough. Spread it out a bit, but don’t cover the garlic completely.
Add a little salt, pepper, and shredded mozzarella if you like extra cheese.
Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Serve hot, drizzled with a bit of extra olive oil if desired. This pizza is always a hit at parties and a great alternative to the usual red-sauce pizzas.
Here’s a quick checklist for the ingredients:
- Pizza dough
- Olive oil
- Minced garlic
- Ricotta cheese
- Salt and pepper
- Shredded mozzarella (optional)
Enjoy this delightful and straightforward white pizza at your next pizza party!
11. Pesto Pizza – Fresh and zesty
Making a pesto pizza for your party is a delightful idea. The vibrant green pesto sauce adds a fresh and zesty flavor everyone will love.
First, I preheat my oven to 390°F (200°C). Parchment paper on a baking tray helps with easy cleanup.
I spread the green pesto evenly on the crust. For toppings, I like to use cherry tomatoes, sundried tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese for a mix of sweet and savory.
The pizza bakes for about 10 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling. Once out of the oven, I garnish my pizza with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
I add small dollops of pesto before serving to make it extra special. Each bite is a mix of creamy, zesty, and fresh flavors.
This is a must-have for any pizza party!
12. Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza – Gourmet touch
Prosciutto and arugula pizza is a delightful addition to any pizza party. The salty prosciutto and peppery arugula give it a gourmet touch that impresses every guest.
I start with a good pizza dough, stretching it out by hand. Then, I add a thin layer of tomato sauce and sprinkle fresh mozzarella.
Bake the pizza at a high temperature, around 500°F, to get that crispy crust. Once the pizza is ready and golden, I drape thin slices of prosciutto over the top.
To finish, I toss fresh arugula with olive oil and lemon juice. I scatter the dressed arugula on the hot pizza. The heat wilts the greens slightly and enhances the flavors.
Tips:
- Use a pizza stone or baking steel for a crispy base.
- Let the oven preheat thoroughly.
- The balsamic reduction can add a sweet and tangy note. Drizzle it on top for an extra gourmet touch.
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough
- Tomato sauce
- Fresh mozzarella
- Prosciutto
- Arugula
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
This pizza is a sure hit with its vibrant colors and sophisticated taste. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza!
13. Mushroom and Truffle Pizza – Decadent and earthy
Nothing says fancy quite like a Mushroom and Truffle Pizza. I love the rich, earthy flavors from the mushrooms and the drizzle of truffle oil on top.
First, you’ll need a pizza stone and a hot oven. Preheat it to around 500°F. This high heat makes the crust super crispy.
For the toppings, sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic and olive oil. The smell alone is heavenly.
To build the pizza:
- Stretch out your dough to form a thin crust.
- Drizzle some olive oil on the dough.
- Spread shredded cheese evenly. Use mozzarella for a classic taste.
Then, place the sautéed mushrooms on top and add some fresh mozzarella to add some creamy goodness.
Bake the pizza for about 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Finally, when it’s out of the oven, drizzle truffle oil over the top. This step is critical because it adds that unbeatable truffle aroma.
I like to serve this pizza at parties because it feels special and tastes incredible.
14. Spinach and Feta Pizza – Mediterranean twist
This Spinach and Feta Pizza brings a Mediterranean twist to our pizza party menu. I love how the combination of spinach and feta cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor.
First, sauté fresh spinach in olive oil with garlic. This step adds a delightful garlicky flavor and ensures the spinach is perfectly wilted.
Here’s a quick tip: choose fresh spinach for the best texture and taste.
For the base, start with your favorite pizza dough. Spread a white sauce evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with mozzarella and feta cheese. Top with the prepared spinach and thinly sliced red onions.
Baking instructions:
- Preheat oven to 450°F
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbling
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough
- White sauce
- Fresh spinach
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Mozzarella cheese
- Feta cheese
- Red onions
This colorful and flavorful pizza fits right in with our Mediterranean theme. Enjoy!
15. Philly Cheesesteak Pizza – Delicious fusion
I love the combination of flavors in a Philly Cheesesteak Pizza. It’s a perfect fusion of two favorites.
To start, I use a thin crust pizza dough, which bakes up crispy and light.
Toppings:
- Steak, sliced thin and cooked until tender
- Onions and bell peppers, sautéed until soft
- Mozzarella cheese sprinkled evenly
Optional Add-ons:
- White American cheddar for extra richness
- Jalapenos for a spicy kick
- A drizzle of hot sauce
Steps:
- Spread Alfredo sauce on the crust, leaving a 1/2-inch space around the edges.
- Top with steak and veggies.
- Sprinkle on the cheese.
Creative Pizza Theme Ideas
Pizza parties are a great way to bring friends and family together. Here are some fun and unique themes that can make your pizza party special and memorable.
1. Italian Night
You want to give your guests a taste of Italy for an Italian Night theme. Start with classic Italian pizzas like Margherita, Quattro Formaggi, and Prosciutto e Arugula.
To create an authentic Italian atmosphere, decorate the space with checkered tablecloths and string lights. Play some Italian music in the background to set the mood.
Consider setting up a simple antipasto bar with olives, cheeses, cured meats, and breadsticks. This will give your guests something to snack on while preparing the pizzas. For a sweet ending, finish off with an Italian dessert like tiramisu or cannoli.
2. DIY Pizza Bar
A DIY Pizza Bar is always a hit because it lets everyone create their pizzas. Set up a table with various toppings such as:
- Cheeses: Mozzarella, Cheddar, Feta
- Veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach
- Meats: Pepperoni, sausage, chicken
- Sauces: Tomato, pesto, white sauce
Don’t forget some unconventional toppings like pineapple and artichoke hearts for the adventurous eaters.
Provide personal-sized pizza dough or pre-made crusts so everyone can get involved. To keep everything organized, label each topping and set out tools like spoons and tongs.
It can be helpful to have a couple of ovens or a large pizza oven so that everyone’s creations can be cooked quickly.
3. Kid-Friendly Pizza Party
For a kid-friendly pizza party, aim to keep things simple, colorful, and fun. Start by using smaller pizza crusts that are easy for little hands to handle.
Set up a toppings station with kid favorites like pepperoni, ham, and cheese. To promote healthy choices, add some veggies like bell peppers and olives.
Be creative with the presentation using fun shapes like hearts or star-shaped pizzas. This will make the experience even more engaging for the kids.
Provide activities like pizza-themed coloring sheets or a mini-cooking class where they can learn to make pizza dough. This will keep them entertained and make the party educational, too.
Side Dishes and Desserts to Complement Your Pizzas
When hosting a pizza party, having the perfect side dishes and desserts can take the event to the next level. Explore some great options, from fresh salads to irresistible dessert pizzas.
1. Salads and Appetizers
A fresh Caesar salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing can refresh your palate between slices of pizza. Adding capers or shaved parmesan can make it even better.
For something warm, buttery garlic bread or breadsticks topped with herbs are perfect for dipping in marinara sauce. Mozzarella sticks with a crispy outside and gooey cheese inside are always crowd-pleasers, especially when served with marinara or ranch.
Tomato soup made from roasted tomatoes pairs well with cheesy pizza. If you want to try something new, you can serve an Italian Bruschetta Bar with various cold cuts, cheeses, and crackers.
2. Delicious Dessert Pizzas
Dessert pizzas bring a sweet end to the party. A classic choice is the chocolate hazelnut spread pizza topped with sliced strawberries and bananas. It’s a hit with everyone, from kids to adults.
If you like something different, try a s’mores pizza. Spread marshmallow fluff on the dough, sprinkle chocolate chips, and top with graham cracker crumbs. Bake until everything is melty and golden.
For a fruity option, an apple cinnamon pizza with thin apple slices, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, and a drizzle of caramel sauce can satisfy any sweet tooth. Pair these with some vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
3. Refreshing Beverages
No pizza party is complete without drinks. Offering a variety of refreshing beverages keeps everyone happy. Homemade lemonade is a great choice, with its perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
For a fizzy option, try fruit-infused sparkling water. For a refreshing twist, add slices of cucumber, lemon, and mint to plain sparkling water.
Suppose you want something more traditional. Set up a classic soda bar. You can include options like cola, root beer, and orange soda. For the adults, a selection of craft beers or wine can also complement the pizza flavors.
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.
