What Is Pickle Pizza?
The Origins of Pickle Pizza
Pickle pizza may seem like a new concept, but the idea actually sprouted from pizza shops experimenting with quirky toppings to stand out.
Originating in Midwest pizzerias around 2018, it really picked up steam when social media creators shared their taste tests—some with skepticism, most with surprised delight.
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Pickle Pizza – The Viral Salty Slice You Didn’t Know You Needed
Pickle Pizza is the ultimate salty, cheesy, tangy bite that’s taken over TikTok and Pinterest. With gooey cheddar, ranch drizzle, and plenty of dill pickles, this viral recipe is crispy, bold, and ready in just 35 minutes. 🥒🍕
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
Ingredients
1 (14–16 oz) prepared pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup ranch dressing (plus more for drizzling)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 ½ cups dill pickle slices (patted dry)
1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing crust)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to warm.
Prepare Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to fit your tray or stone. Transfer to parchment for easy handling.
Base Layer: Spread ranch dressing evenly over the dough, leaving 1 inch for the crust edge.
Cheese Blend: Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the ranch layer.
Add Pickles: Arrange dill pickle slices across the top. Blot them with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture.
Seasoning: Brush crust edges with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
Bake: Transfer pizza to the preheated oven. Bake 18–20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and crust is golden brown.
Finish: Drizzle extra ranch on top. Slice and serve warm!
Notes
Dry the pickles: Blotting them helps avoid soggy pizza.
Cheese variety: Add Monterey Jack or provolone for an extra cheesy pull.
For spice lovers: Toss in some jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Serving idea: Pair with a cold beer or sparkling soda for the ultimate game-day snack.
Shortcut: Use refrigerated crescent dough for a quick flaky crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Why Pickle Pizza Became a Viral Trend
Once TikTok and Instagram influencers took a bite (literally), the trend exploded. The unexpected flavor combo, paired with visually stunning cheese pulls and glistening pickle slices, made it impossible to scroll past. It wasn’t just a novelty—it was good. Add in hashtags like #PicklePizza and viral reaction videos, and you’ve got a cultural phenomenon.
Ingredients That Make It Unique
The Role of Pickles in the Flavor Profile
The real star here? The pickle. Dill pickles, with their briny and tart bite, cut through the richness of melted cheese. Their acidity balances out the pizza’s fat content, making each bite feel lighter yet more complex.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Cheese
Most pickle pizzas use mozzarella, but some upgrade with white cheddar or provolone for extra tang. Cream cheese or garlic aioli as a base instead of tomato sauce enhances the richness without overpowering the pickles.
How to Make Pickle Pizza at Home
Classic Pickle Pizza Recipe (Step-by-Step)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pizza dough | 1 (12-inch) crust |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1½ cups |
| Garlic aioli or cream cheese | ½ cup |
| Dill pickle slices | ½–¾ cup |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Olive oil (for crust) | 1 tbsp |
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 475°F.
- Spread aioli or cream cheese on the dough.
- Top with mozzarella and pickle slices.
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden.
- Cool slightly, slice, and enjoy!
Don’t miss our complete guide to baking restaurant-style pizza at home.
Alternative Crusts: Keto, Gluten-Free & More
No one has to miss out. Use cauliflower crust for a gluten-free base or fathead dough for a keto twist. These crusts pair surprisingly well with the boldness of pickles and cheese.
Flavor Combinations and Toppings
Best Pickle Pairings (Bacon, Ranch, Hot Sauce)
Pickle pizza loves a good partner. Here are combos that level up your slice:
- Bacon & Pickle: Salty + salty = perfection
- Ranch drizzle: Creamy and cool
- Buffalo sauce: Adds heat that’s balanced by the tang
Pickle Types: Dill, Bread & Butter, Spicy, and More
You’re not stuck with just one variety. Explore:
- Dill pickles: Classic and punchy
- Bread & Butter pickles: Sweeter, better for contrast
- Spicy pickles: For heat lovers
Check out our flavor-pairing cheat sheet for more ideas.
Taste Test – What to Expect
Describing the Tangy, Salty, and Cheesy Bite
Imagine this: a buttery, golden crust… gooey mozzarella… then comes the tang of a cold dill pickle slice, cutting right through with briny freshness. It’s not your average pizza—it’s sharper, bolder, and more memorable.
What Do First-Timers Think of Pickle Pizza?
Reactions range from “surprisingly amazing” to “why didn’t I try this sooner?” It’s a hit among adventurous eaters and surprisingly addictive for traditionalists.
Is Pickle Pizza Healthy?
Nutritional Breakdown (Approx. per Slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180–220 |
| Protein | 9–11g |
| Fat | 8–12g |
| Sodium | 500–700mg |
Note: Using cauliflower crust or reduced-fat cheese can lower calories significantly.
Comparing It to Traditional Cheese or Pepperoni Pizza
Pickle pizza often skips the meat and uses less cheese, making it lighter. However, the sodium from pickles can add up—so moderation matters. Discover great ideas like low-sodium pizza alternatives.
Pickle Pizza Around the U.S.
Famous Pizzerias Serving Pickle Pizza
Several spots have gained cult status for their versions:
- Rhino’s Pizzeria (New York) – White garlic sauce + dill pickles
- Fong’s Pizza (Iowa) – Pickles, Canadian bacon, and garlic aioli
- Papa Murphy’s (Limited Edition) – Nationwide buzz
Regional Variations and Local Favorites
Some versions include cream-based sauces, others layer spicy pickles with crushed red pepper. Regional twists offer something for every palate.
TikTok, Instagram & The Rise of Pickle Pizza
How Social Media Gave Pickle Pizza Its Fame
Thanks to foodie influencers and ASMR pizza cuts, pickle pizza found its place in viral history. Hashtags like #PicklePizzaChallenge and #TikTokPizza racked up millions of views.
User Reviews and Reactions Online
Most viewers go in skeptical—but videos often end with wide eyes and enthusiastic thumbs up. The shock factor, combined with genuine flavor appeal, keeps people sharing and trying.
Don’t miss our viral food trends roundup.
FAQs (People Also Ask)
What is pickle pizza?
Pickle pizza is a savory pizza topped with dill pickles, mozzarella cheese, and typically a white sauce like garlic aioli or cream cheese instead of tomato sauce.
Does pickle pizza actually taste good?
Surprisingly, yes! The tangy pickles cut through the richness of cheese, offering a balanced and unique flavor that many pizza lovers enjoy.
How do you make homemade pickle pizza?
Start with dough, spread a white sauce, top with mozzarella and pickle slices, then bake at high heat. Optional: bacon, ranch, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
What kind of pickles are best for pickle pizza?
Dill pickles are the most popular, but bread & butter or spicy pickles offer sweet or fiery alternatives.
Is pickle pizza healthy?
It can be! While pickles are low-calorie, cheese and crust add fat and carbs. Using low-fat cheese and cauliflower crust makes it a lighter option.
Can you use different crusts for pickle pizza?
Absolutely—gluten-free, keto, cauliflower, or whole wheat crusts all work and change the flavor and nutrition profile.
Conclusion
Pickle pizza isn’t just a quirky trend—it’s a legit flavor experience that’s savory, tangy, and surprisingly addictive. Whether you’re whipping it up at home or ordering from a local shop, this is one slice worth trying. So, grab some pickles and give your pizza night a makeover.