The 10 Most Popular Types of Pizza in the World (and How to Make Them at Home)

Pizza is one of the most beloved dishes in the world, appreciated for its versatility, simplicity, and irresistible taste. From Naples to international restaurants, every country has reinterpreted this culinary masterpiece, creating unique and delicious versions. In this article, we will explore the 10 most iconic types of pizza and provide practical tips on how to prepare them at home using easily accessible ingredients.

1. Margherita Pizza (Italy)

The queen of pizzas, a symbol of Neapolitan tradition. Simple yet elegant, it consists of San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

• Key Ingredients: "00" flour, San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, fresh basil.
• Cooking Tip: Cook in a wood-fired oven or a high-temperature electric oven like the DiavolaPro, to achieve a crispy crust and soft dough.

2. Pepperoni Pizza (USA)

One of the most popular pizza variations in the United States, characterized by a base of tomato sauce, mozzarella, and slices of spicy salami.

• Key Ingredients: tomato sauce, mozzarella, spicy salami (pepperoni).
• Cooking Tip: Distribute the salami evenly over the pizza to prevent it from burning during cooking.

3. Hawaiian Pizza (International)

Loved by some and criticized by others, this pizza combines cooked ham and pineapple, creating a sweet-and-salty contrast.

• Key Ingredients: tomato sauce, mozzarella, cooked ham, fresh or canned pineapple.
• Cooking Tip: Add the pineapple only in the last few minutes of cooking to preserve its freshness.

4. Four-Cheese Pizza (Italy)

An Italian classic for cheese lovers. This pizza combines four different types of cheese: mozzarella, gorgonzola, fontina, and parmesan.

• Key Ingredients: mozzarella, gorgonzola, fontina, parmesan.
• Cooking Tip: Add the parmesan only after removing the pizza from the oven to maintain its intense aroma.

5. Marinara Pizza (Italy)

One of the oldest and simplest pizzas, made with tomato, garlic, oregano, and extra virgin olive oil.

• Key Ingredients: tomato, fresh garlic, oregano, extra virgin olive oil.
• Cooking Tip: Sprinkle the oregano before baking to enhance its fragrance.

6. Capricciosa Pizza (Italy)

One of the most complete pizzas, combining ingredients such as cooked ham, mushrooms, artichokes, olives, and mozzarella.

• Key Ingredients: tomato sauce, mozzarella, cooked ham, button mushrooms, artichokes, black olives.
• Cooking Tip: Add the artichokes and olives in the last few minutes to maintain their texture.

7. Sushi Fusion Pizza (Japan/South Korea)

A fusion between pizza and sushi, with rice replacing the dough and toppings like raw fish, avocado, and wasabi.

• Key Ingredients: sushi rice, raw fish fillets, avocado, wasabi sauce, nori.
• Cooking Tip: Use a thin layer of pressed rice and serve cold.

8. Pide (Turkey)

Known as "Turkish pizza," it’s an open-faced boat-shaped pizza with high edges, usually filled with minced meat, spinach, or cheese.

• Key Ingredients: leavened dough, minced meat, spinach, akkawi cheese, yogurt.
• Cooking Tip: Cook in a traditional wood-fired oven to achieve crispy edges.

9. Indian Flatbread Pizza (India)

An Indian interpretation of pizza, with a base of naan bread and spicy toppings like vegetable curry and paneer cheese.

• Key Ingredients: naan bread, vegetable curry, paneer cheese, fresh cilantro.
• Cooking Tip: Use a tandoor oven or an electric oven to warm the naan before adding the toppings.

10. Vegan Pizza (Global)

A modern and healthy variation, free from animal products, based on plant-based ingredients like hummus, grilled vegetables, and marinated tofu.

• Key Ingredients: gluten-free dough (optional), hummus, grilled vegetables, marinated tofu.
• Cooking Tip: Add the grilled vegetables after baking to maintain their freshness and texture.

Bonus: Tips for Making Your Perfect Pizza

Want to make your home pizza experience even more satisfying? Here are some tips:

• Use a long-fermented dough (24-48 hours) for a more intense flavor and better digestibility.
• Choose high-quality ingredients, preferably seasonal and locally sourced.
• Invest in a good pizza oven, such as the DiavolaPro, for professional results.
• Experiment with new flavor combinations to customize your pizza.

Final Thoughts

The most beloved pizzas around the world reflect the planet's cultural and gastronomic diversity. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a Margherita or the boldness of a sushi fusion pizza, there’s always a way to bring a piece of the world into your kitchen. Try these recipes at home and let yourself be inspired by global culinary creativity!

Ready to become a pizza expert? With these tips and a bit of practice, you can impress friends and family with delicious and original pizzas. Happy cooking!