Pizza is undeniably one of the most beloved and versatile foods around the world. Whether you prefer a classic Margherita or a loaded meat lover’s, there’s no denying the appeal of a piping hot slice. But have you ever found yourself wondering what dishes pair perfectly with pizza to take your meal to the next level? From crisp salads to mouthwatering pasta dishes, we’ll explore a range of delectable options that will satisfy your taste buds and elevate your pizza experience. So, get ready to discover the ultimate accompaniments that will have you reaching for another slice in no time.

Salads

Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad is the perfect accompaniment to a slice of pizza. With its crisp romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons, this salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of pizza. To take your Caesar salad to the next level, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.

Caprese Salad

If you’re looking for a light and refreshing salad to pair with your pizza, look no further than a Caprese salad. Made with juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, aromatic basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this salad embodies the flavors of Italy. The creamy cheese complements the pizza perfectly, while the tangy balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness.

Greek Salad

For a taste of the Mediterranean, try serving a Greek salad alongside your pizza. This vibrant salad is packed with flavors and textures, featuring crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty Greek dressing. The combination of fresh ingredients creates a harmonious balance that pairs well with any pizza flavor.

Mixed Green Salad

If you’re looking for a versatile salad that can complement any pizza topping, a mixed green salad is a great choice. With its variety of lettuce, such as spinach, arugula, and romaine, as well as a mix of colorful vegetables, this salad offers a fresh and crunchy bite. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, and carrots, and dress it with your preferred dressing.

Antipasto Salad

For a more robust salad option, consider serving an antipasto salad with your pizza. This Italian-inspired salad combines a variety of cured meats, such as salami and prosciutto, with marinated vegetables, such as artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and olives. Tossed with a tangy vinaigrette, this salad adds a satisfying bite and bold flavors that pair well with pizza.

Appetizers

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic appetizer that perfectly complements pizza. The warm, crispy bread topped with butter, garlic, and herbs is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it as a side or as an appetizer, it adds an extra layer of flavor to your meal.

Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella sticks are a popular choice for pizza lovers. These crispy and gooey sticks of breaded mozzarella cheese are a delightful treat that pairs well with any pizza flavor. Dip them in marinara sauce or ranch dressing for an extra burst of flavor.

Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a delicious Italian appetizer that can be served as a light and refreshing side dish with pizza. The combination of toasted bread, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil creates a burst of flavors that complement the flavors of pizza.

Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are an elegant and flavorful appetizer that pairs well with pizza. These bite-sized treats are filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms and the rich filling add depth to your meal.

Chicken Wings

Chicken wings are a popular choice for game nights, and they also make a great appetizer to serve with pizza. Whether you prefer them spicy or mild, these finger-licking wings are a crowd-pleaser that can satisfy any craving. Pair them with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.

Dips and Sauces

Marinara Sauce

Marinara sauce is a classic Italian tomato sauce that is often used as a dip for pizza crusts or as a topping for pasta dishes. With its rich tomato flavor, hints of garlic, and aromatic herbs, marinara sauce adds a burst of tangy goodness to your meal.

Ranch Dressing

Ranch dressing is a versatile dip that can accompany a variety of dishes, including pizza. Its creamy and tangy flavor pairs well with the cheesy and savory flavors of pizza, adding a cool and refreshing element to your meal. Dip your pizza or even your garlic breadsticks in ranch dressing for an extra kick.

Garlic Parmesan Dip

Garlic parmesan dip is a savory and flavorful sauce that can elevate your pizza experience. Made with garlic, parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, and a few other ingredients, this dip adds a cheesy and garlicky punch to every bite. Spread it on your pizza or use it as a dip for your crusts.

Buffalo Sauce

If you’re a fan of spicy flavors, a buffalo sauce dip is the perfect choice to serve with your pizza. Made with hot sauce, butter, and a variety of seasonings, this tangy and fiery sauce is a popular choice for dipping pizza, especially when paired with chicken toppings.

Pesto

Pesto is a versatile and vibrant sauce that can add a burst of fresh flavors to your pizza. Made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, and olive oil, this green sauce offers a unique twist to your pizza experience. Whether you drizzle it on top of your pizza or use it as a dip, pesto can enhance the overall taste of your meal.

Pasta

Spaghetti Carbonara

Spaghetti carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish that can be served as a side with pizza. This indulgent dish features spaghetti coated in a rich and creamy sauce made with eggs, pancetta, parmesan cheese, and black pepper. The combination of the creamy sauce and the crispy pancetta creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Penne alla Vodka

Penne alla vodka is a flavorful and creamy pasta dish that pairs well with pizza. Made with penne pasta tossed in a creamy tomato and vodka sauce, this dish is satisfying and comforting. The richness of the sauce complements the flavors of pizza, creating a delicious combination.

Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a hearty and comforting pasta dish that can be served as a side or even as a main course alongside pizza. This dish features ziti pasta mixed with tomato sauce, melted cheese, and sometimes meat or vegetables. Baked to perfection, the cheesy and saucy ziti provides a satisfying and filling complement to pizza.

Fettuccine Alfredo

Fettuccine Alfredo is a classic Italian pasta dish that is rich, creamy, and indulgent. With its silky smooth sauce made from butter, cream, and parmesan cheese, this pasta pairs well with pizza. The creamy flavors of the Alfredo sauce add a touch of decadence to your meal.

Lasagna

Lasagna is a comforting and hearty pasta dish that is perfect for serving with pizza. Layered with pasta, meat or vegetables, tomato sauce, and cheese, lasagna offers a delicious combination of flavors and textures. This filling dish is a crowd-pleaser and can be enjoyed on its own or alongside a slice of pizza.

Soups

Minestrone Soup

Minestrone soup is a classic Italian vegetable soup that can be served as a starter or as a side dish with pizza. This hearty soup is packed with a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, beans, celery, and tomatoes, along with pasta or rice. The savory flavors of the soup complement the flavors of pizza and provide a warm and comforting accompaniment.

Tomato Soup

Tomato soup is a classic choice that pairs well with pizza. Whether it’s a creamy tomato bisque or a chunky tomato soup, the rich and tangy flavors of tomato soup complement the savory and cheesy flavors of pizza. Dip your pizza crusts into the soup for a comforting and flavorful bite.

Italian Wedding Soup

Italian wedding soup is a delicious and comforting soup that combines meatballs, vegetables, and pasta in a flavorful broth. With its hearty ingredients and savory flavors, this soup adds a satisfying element to your pizza meal. The combination of the tender meatballs, delicate pasta, and aromatic broth creates a delightful eating experience.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Creamy chicken noodle soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that can be served as a side with pizza. This creamy version of the classic chicken noodle soup adds a richer and more indulgent twist. The tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and creamy broth create a harmony of flavors that pairs well with the cheesy goodness of pizza.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli cheddar soup is a creamy and flavorful soup that pairs well with pizza. The combination of broccoli, cheddar cheese, onions, and spices creates a delightful blend of flavors. This hearty soup adds a comforting touch to your meal and can be enjoyed on its own or alongside a slice of pizza.

Sandwiches

Italian Sub

An Italian sub is a classic sandwich that perfectly complements pizza. Made with layers of Italian deli meats, such as salami, ham, and pepperoni, along with provolone cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and Italian dressing, this sandwich is a flavor-packed option that satisfies your cravings.

Meatball Sandwich

A meatball sandwich is a delicious and filling option to serve alongside pizza. Made with tender meatballs smothered in marinara sauce, topped with melted cheese, and served on a crusty roll, this sandwich is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of the savory meatballs and the tangy sauce complements the flavors of pizza.

Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

Chicken Parmesan sandwich is a tasty and satisfying option to enjoy with pizza. Tender and crispy breaded chicken breast, smothered in marinara sauce, topped with melted cheese, and served on a warm bun, creates a delicious combination of flavors and textures. This sandwich offers the perfect balance to the cheesy goodness of pizza.

Eggplant Parmesan Sandwich

For a vegetarian option, an eggplant Parmesan sandwich is a great choice to serve alongside pizza. Breaded and fried slices of eggplant are layered with marinara sauce, melted cheese, and served on a soft bun. The rich flavors of the eggplant and the savory marinara sauce provide a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Caprese Panini

A Caprese panini is a light and refreshing sandwich option that goes well with pizza. Made with fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this panini offers a burst of flavors. The combination of the creamy cheese, sweet tomatoes, and tangy balsamic glaze adds a delightful twist to your pizza meal.

Vegetable Sides

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables are a wholesome and flavorful side dish that goes well with pizza. Whether it’s a medley of colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant or a mix of root vegetables like carrots and potatoes, roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your meal.

Sautéed Spinach

Sautéed spinach is a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs well with pizza. The tender and vibrant spinach leaves are lightly cooked with garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt, resulting in a flavorful and nutritious accompaniment. The earthy flavors of spinach provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of pizza.

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is a healthy and tasty option to serve alongside pizza. The smoky flavors from grilling bring out the natural sweetness of the asparagus, creating a delicious side dish. The tender and crispy texture of the grilled asparagus adds a delightful bite to your meal.

Mixed Roasted Peppers

Mixed roasted peppers are a colorful and flavorful side dish that pairs well with pizza. Roasting bell peppers gives them a sweeter and smoky taste, which is enhanced with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs. The combination of red, yellow, and green peppers adds a vibrant touch to your meal.

Garlic Green Beans

Garlic green beans are a simple yet tasty vegetable side dish that can be served with pizza. The tender-crisp green beans are sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt, resulting in a flavorful and nutritious addition to your meal. The garlic-infused flavors complement the savory flavors of pizza.

Meat Sides

Chicken Caesar Salad

Chicken Caesar salad is a hearty and flavorful side dish that pairs well with pizza. With its crisp romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, shaved parmesan cheese, and grilled chicken, this salad provides a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. The addition of protein-packed chicken makes this salad a filling and complete meal.

Pepperoni Pizza Rolls

Pepperoni pizza rolls are a fun and delicious side dish to serve with pizza. These bite-sized rolls are filled with pepperoni, cheese, and marinara sauce, then baked until golden and gooey. The savory and cheesy flavors of the rolls complement the pizza perfectly.

Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers

Italian sausage stuffed peppers are a flavorful and satisfying meat side dish to enjoy with pizza. The combination of spicy Italian sausage, rice, cheese, and aromatic seasonings creates a delicious filling that is stuffed into bell peppers and baked to perfection. The bold flavors of the sausage add depth to your meal.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders

Parmesan crusted chicken tenders offer a crispy and flavorful twist on a classic chicken dish. The chicken tenders are coated with a mixture of breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and herbs, then baked until golden and juicy. These delicious chicken tenders can be served alongside a slice of pizza for a complete and satisfying meal.

Bacon-wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a spicy and indulgent side dish that pairs well with pizza. The combination of spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese filling, and crispy bacon creates a perfect balance of flavors. These poppers can be baked or grilled until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted, providing a delicious and fiery bite.

Cheese and Bread Sides

Cheesy Breadsticks

Cheesy breadsticks are a classic side dish that can be served alongside pizza. These warm and flavorful breadsticks are coated with garlic butter and topped with melted cheese, then baked to perfection. The soft and cheesy breadsticks provide a satisfying and indulgent bite that complements the flavors of pizza.

Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers offer a refreshing and bite-sized side dish to enjoy with pizza. Made with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves, these skewers are drizzled with balsamic glaze for added flavor. The combination of the juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and aromatic basil creates a burst of flavors that pairs well with pizza.

Burrata Bruschetta

Burrata bruschetta is a luxurious and flavorful side dish that can be served with pizza. This twist on traditional bruschetta features creamy burrata cheese, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, all served on crispy bread. The creamy cheese and the tangy flavors of the tomatoes add richness to your meal.

Garlic Knots

Garlic knots are a popular side dish that can be enjoyed with pizza. These soft and chewy knots of dough are coated with garlic butter and sprinkled with herbs, then baked until golden and fragrant. The garlic-infused flavors and the buttery texture provide a delightful accompaniment to your pizza.

Cheese Calzone

A cheese calzone is a delicious and satisfying side dish that pairs well with pizza. This folded pizza dough is filled with a mixture of cheese, such as mozzarella and ricotta, along with herbs and spices, then baked until golden and gooey. The cheesy and flavorful filling makes this calzone a treat on its own or alongside a slice of pizza.

Beverage Pairings

Beer

Beer is a classic beverage pairing with pizza. Whether you prefer a light and crisp lager, a hoppy IPA, or a rich and malty stout, beer offers a refreshing and effervescent drink that can complement the flavors of pizza. The carbonation of the beer helps cleanse the palate and enhance the overall dining experience.

Wine

Wine is a versatile and sophisticated beverage choice that can elevate your pizza meal. Pairing your pizza with a red wine, such as a Chianti or a Sangiovese, can complement the rich flavors of the pizza sauce and cheese. For a lighter option, a white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can provide a refreshing balance.

Soda

Soda is a popular and refreshing beverage option that goes well with pizza. The effervescence and sweetness of soda can complement the savory and cheesy flavors of pizza. Whether you prefer cola, lemon-lime, or a fruity soda, this carbonated drink provides a thirst-quenching accompaniment to your meal.

Iced Tea

Iced tea is a cool and refreshing beverage choice that can be enjoyed with pizza. The subtle flavors of tea, whether it’s black, green, or herbal, provide a refreshing and thirst-quenching element to your meal. You can enjoy it plain or sweetened to your preferred taste.

Lemonade

Lemonade is a tangy and citrusy beverage option that pairs well with pizza. The refreshing and sweet flavors of lemonade can balance the savory and rich flavors of pizza. Whether it’s traditional lemonade or flavored with fruits like strawberry or peach, this drink can add a burst of freshness to your meal.