Who Invented Pickle Pizza? The Surprising Story Behind This Tasty Trend

Pickle Pie Pizza

Pickle Pie Pizza might sound like an unusual combination, but this flavor-packed creation has taken the food world by storm. With its tangy pickles, creamy cheese, and perfectly crispy crust, it offers a mouthwatering balance of acidity and richness. Whether you’re a pickle lover or a pizza enthusiast, this dish is a must-try.

In this article, we’ll explore the origins of Pickle Pizza, how it became a viral sensation, and where you can find the best versions. Plus, we’ll provide a step-by-step recipe so you can make it at home.

Let’s dive into the delicious world of Pickle Pie Pizza!

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Different styles of Pickle Pie Pizza

Homemade Pickle Pie Pizza – The Perfect Tangy, Cheesy Pizza!


  • Author: JULIA
  • Total Time: 22-25 minutes
  • Yield: 1 (12-inch) pizza 1x

Description

This Homemade Pickle Pie Pizza is a deliciously tangy, creamy, and crunchy twist on traditional pizza! Featuring a garlic-dill sauce, melty cheese, and crispy pickles, this easy-to-make pizza is perfect for pickle lovers and adventurous foodies alike. Try it today and enjoy a flavor-packed experience!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup warm water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • ½ cup sour cream (or ranch dressing)
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 2 tsp fresh dill)

For the Toppings:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup provolone cheese (optional)
  • ½ cup sliced dill pickles (pat dry)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon hot honey (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then knead for 8 minutes until smooth.
  3. Cover and let the dough rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Preheat and Roll Out the Dough

  1. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it inside to heat up.
  2. Roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface.
  3. Transfer to a pizza pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Make the Garlic-Dill Sauce

  1. In a bowl, mix sour cream (or ranch dressing), mayonnaise, garlic powder, and dill.
  2. Spread the sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

  1. Sprinkle mozzarella and provolone cheese over the sauce.
  2. Arrange pickle slices evenly.
  3. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 5: Bake the Pizza

  1. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
  2. If using a pizza stone, bake for 10-12 minutes for extra crispiness.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

  1. Let cool for 1-2 minutes.
  2. Drizzle with hot honey (optional) and sprinkle with fresh dill.
  3. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra crunch, use fried pickles instead of raw pickles.
  • Want a spicier version? Add jalapeños or hot sauce before baking.
  • No fresh dill? Substitute with a pinch of dried dill.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 pizza)
  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Pickle Pie Pizza, Dill Pickle Pizza, Garlic-Dill Pizza, Pickle Lovers Recipe

What is Pickle Pie Pizza?

Pickle Pie Pizza is exactly what it sounds like—a pizza topped with pickles, cheese, and flavorful sauces, often featuring a garlic-dill base instead of traditional tomato sauce. This unique take on pizza swaps out traditional toppings like pepperoni or sausage for crisp, briny pickles that add a tangy crunch to every bite.

What Makes Pickle Pizza Different?

Unlike classic pizzas, Pickle Pie Pizza stands out due to:

  • Tangy pickle slices that contrast with the rich, cheesy base.
  • Garlic-dill sauce instead of tomato sauce, enhancing the pickle flavor.
  • Crunchy crust that provides the perfect texture balance.

Why This Unique Flavor Combo Works

At first glance, pickles and pizza might seem like an odd pairing, but there’s a reason why this combination has gained a cult following. The secret lies in contrast and balance:

  • Acidity Meets Creaminess: The vinegar-based pickles cut through the richness of melted cheese.
  • Salty & Savory: Pickles enhance the umami flavors of the crust and cheese.
  • Crunch vs. Softness: A crispy crust balances the juicy pickle toppings.

This blend of textures and flavors makes Pickle Pie Pizza an addictive treat, even for those who were skeptical at first!

Looking for more unique pizza ideas? Check out this recipe for Pizza Sticks.

Now that we know what makes Pickle Pie Pizza so special, let’s take a look at where it all started! In the next section, we’ll uncover the history of Pickle Pizza and how it became a viral sensation.

The History of Pickle Pizza

Who Invented Pickle Pizza?

The exact origins of Pickle Pizza are a bit murky, but it’s widely believed to have gained popularity in the Midwest, particularly in Minnesota. The combination of pickles and pizza isn’t entirely new—many people have long enjoyed pickles as a topping on cheeseburger pizzas. However, the idea of making pickles the star ingredient took off in recent years.

One of the first well-known Pickle Pizza creators is QC Pizza, a small pizzeria in Mahtomedi, Minnesota. They gained national attention for their “Kinda Big Dill” pizza, which features a garlicky white sauce, mozzarella cheese, pickles, and fresh dill. Once their creation went viral on social media, restaurants across the country started adding Pickle Pizza to their menus.

Another major moment for Pickle Pizza came when it was introduced at the Minnesota State Fair. The fair is known for showcasing creative and unconventional food, and the Pickle Pizza quickly became one of the most talked-about items, leading to its widespread popularity.

When Did Pickles First Appear on Pizza?

While Pickle Pizza as we know it today is relatively new, pickles have been used as a pizza topping for decades. One of the earliest versions of pickle-topped pizza was the cheeseburger pizza, which combined ground beef, cheddar cheese, and pickles to mimic the flavors of a classic burger.

The use of pickles in non-traditional ways, such as pickle-flavored chips, popcorn, and even ice cream, has also contributed to the growing acceptance of pickles as a mainstream ingredient in unexpected dishes—including pizza.

The Evolution of Pickles on Pizza

1. The Cheeseburger Pizza Influence

Pickles have been a staple topping on cheeseburger pizzas for years. Many pizza restaurants introduced variations of this style, which often included mustard sauce, ground beef, and pickles. This served as a stepping stone for the full-fledged Pickle Pizza.

2. The Social Media Explosion

Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have played a significant role in the rise of Pickle Pizza. When videos showcasing this unique dish started going viral, food bloggers and chefs began experimenting with their own versions, leading to an explosion of interest.

3. Pickle Pizza at Food Festivals and Fairs

The Minnesota State Fair was one of the first major events to feature Pickle Pizza, and it quickly became a crowd favorite. Other state fairs and food festivals followed suit, bringing the dish to an even larger audience.

4. The Restaurant Boom

Following the viral success of Pickle Pizza, restaurants nationwide started adding their own versions to their menus. Some pizzerias kept it simple with just pickles and cheese, while others added, hot honey, or even spicy jalapeños for a bolder flavor profile.

Ingredients That Make Pickle Pie Pizza Special

Pickle Pie Pizza isn’t just about throwing pickles on a crust and calling it a day. The magic of this unique pizza comes from carefully chosen ingredients that balance tanginess, creaminess, and crunch. Whether you’re making it at home or ordering from a pizzeria, these are the key components that make Pickle Pizza an unforgettable treat.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Pickle Pizza

1. The Crust: A Strong Base for Bold Flavors
  • Thin and Crispy: A thin-crust pizza works best, allowing the toppings to shine without overpowering the texture.
  • Garlic Butter Brushed: Many Pickle Pizzas feature a garlic butter or olive oil-brushed crust instead of traditional tomato sauce.
  • Sourdough or Hand-Tossed: A slightly chewy crust provides a great contrast to the crunch of the pickles.
2. The Sauce: A Creamy, Flavorful Base

Unlike traditional pizza, which uses tomato sauce, Pickle Pie Pizza often features a garlic-dill sauce that complements the briny pickles. Some popular sauce choices include:

  • Garlic Aioli – Adds a creamy, slightly tangy flavor.
  • Ranch Dressing – A classic pairing with pickles that enhances the overall taste.
  • Dill-infused White Sauce – A mix of sour cream or cream cheese with fresh dill.
3. The Cheese: Creamy and Gooey

To balance out the acidity of the pickles, the right cheese choice is crucial:

  • Mozzarella: Classic, creamy, and provides a great melt.
  • Provolone: Adds a mild sharpness that complements the tangy pickles.
  • Parmesan: A sprinkling on top enhances the savory depth.
  • Cheddar: Used in cheeseburger-style pickle pizzas for a bolder taste.
4. The Pickles: The Star of the Show

Not all pickles are created equal when it comes to pizza. The best types to use include:

  • Dill Pickle Slices – The most common and well-loved variety.
  • Bread and Butter Pickles – For a slightly sweeter twist.
  • Spicy Pickles – If you love a bit of heat, try jalapeño-infused pickles.
  • Homemade Pickles – Fresher and crunchier than store-bought ones.
5. Extra Toppings: Taking It to the Next Level

While pickles are the main focus, these toppings can add extra layers of flavor:

  • Red Onion – Adds a slight crunch and mild sharpness.
  • Jalapeños – Perfect for those who like a little spice.
  • Hot Honey Drizzle – A trending topping that balances sweet and sour flavors.
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Enhances the tangy kick.

Choosing the Right Pickles for the Best Taste

Not all pickles work well on pizza! Here’s how to choose the best ones for the perfect balance of flavor and texture:

Pickle TypeFlavor ProfileBest Use on Pizza
Dill PicklesClassic tangy, garlicky flavorWorks well with garlic sauce and cheese
Bread & ButterSlightly sweet, mild acidityPairs well with cheddar for a sweet-savory contrast
Spicy PicklesTangy with a heat kickGreat with hot honey drizzle or jalapeños
Kosher PicklesExtra garlicky, boldPerfect for garlic lovers

Pro Tip: Pat your pickles dry with a paper towel before adding them to your pizza. This prevents excess moisture from making the crust soggy.

How to Make Pickle Pie Pizza at Home

Who Invented Pickle Pizza? The rise of this tangy pizza trend on social media.

Craving a slice of Pickle Pie Pizza? You don’t need to visit a specialty pizzeria to enjoy this unique flavor! Making it at home is easy, fun, and allows you to customize it exactly how you like. Follow this simple step-by-step recipe to create your own tangy, cheesy, and delicious pickle pizza.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Pickle Pie Pizza

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup warm water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • ½ cup sour cream or ranch dressing
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 2 tsp fresh chopped dill)

For the Toppings:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup provolone cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
  • ½ cup sliced dill pickles (pat dry with a paper towel)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon hot honey (optional, for drizzling)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill (for garnish)

Instructions:

1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then knead the dough for about 8 minutes until smooth.
  3. Cover and let the dough rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2: Preheat the Oven and Roll Out the Dough

  1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it inside to heat up.
  2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle.
  3. Transfer the dough to a pizza pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3: Make the Garlic-Dill Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, mix sour cream (or ranch dressing), mayonnaise, garlic powder, and dill.
  2. Spread the sauce evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border for the crust.

4: Assemble the Pizza

  1. Sprinkle mozzarella and provolone cheese evenly over the sauce.
  2. Arrange pickle slices on top of the cheese.
  3. Sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using).

5: Bake the Pizza

  1. Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
  2. If using a pizza stone, bake for 10-12 minutes for extra crispiness.

6: Finish with Garnishes

  1. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute.
  2. Drizzle with hot honey for a sweet-savory balance (optional).
  3. Sprinkle with fresh chopped dill for an extra pop of flavor.

7: Slice and Enjoy!

Cut into slices and serve immediately. Enjoy the tangy, cheesy goodness of homemade Pickle Pie Pizza!

Tips for a Crispy Crust and Perfect Flavor Balance

Use a pizza stone: This helps achieve a crispy bottom crust.
Pat dry the pickles: Excess moisture can make the pizza soggy.
Experiment with flavors: Try adding beef bits or swapping mozzarella for cheddar.
Preheat your oven properly: A hot oven ensures a crispy crust.

Where to Buy the Best Pickle Pizza

Who Invented Pickle Pizza? A modern-day restaurant serving gourmet Pickle Pizza.

Not in the mood to make Pickle Pie Pizza at home? No worries! This unique pizza has gained so much popularity that you can find it at pizzerias, food festivals, and even grocery stores across the U.S. Below, we’ll explore some of the best places to grab a slice, including restaurants, state fairs, and delivery options.

What Pizza Places Make Pickle Pizza?

Many pizzerias have added Pickle Pizza to their menus, often inspired by viral social media trends. Some of the best-known places to find an authentic and delicious Pickle Pie Pizza include:

1. QC Pizza (Mahtomedi, Minnesota)

  • One of the first to create a dedicated Pickle Pizza.
  • Their “Kinda Big Dill” pizza features garlic-dill sauce, mozzarella, crunchy pickles, and fresh dill.
  • Available for in-store pickup and online ordering for nationwide delivery.

2. Rhino’s Pizzeria (Upstate New York)

  • Their Pickle Pizza went viral on social media.
  • Features a white garlic sauce, mozzarella, and pickles.
  • Perfect for New York-style pizza lovers.

3. Local and Specialty Pizzerias

Many independent pizza shops across the U.S. have added Pickle Pizza to their menu due to popular demand. If you don’t see it on the menu, you can always ask your local pizzeria if they offer a custom pickle topping option.

Who Sells Pickle Pizza at the MN State Fair?

One of the best-known places to get Pickle Pizza is the Minnesota State Fair. The fair is famous for introducing creative, over-the-top foods, and Pickle Pizza has been one of the most popular items in recent years.

Where to Find It at the Fair

  • Rick’s Pizza Stand: This vendor introduced Pickle Pizza at the fair and continues to sell out every year.
  • Pizza Barn: Located in Princeton, MN, Pizza Barn has brought their version of Pickle Pizza to the fairgrounds.
  • Fair-Exclusive Vendors: Some stands only serve Pickle Pizza during the fair, so check the official MN State Fair food guide before you go.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re heading to the Minnesota State Fair, arrive early—Pickle Pizza is so popular that it often sells out before the day is over!

Can You Order Pickle Pizza for Delivery?

Yes! Some restaurants and specialty pizzerias offer nationwide shipping or local delivery of Pickle Pizza. Here’s where you can order online:

1. Goldbelly

  • A food delivery service that ships Pickle Pizza from top pizzerias across the U.S.
  • Offers frozen versions that you can bake at home.

2. QC Pizza (Nationwide Shipping)

  • Ships their famous Pickle Pizza frozen across the U.S.
  • Great option if you want to try the original without visiting Minnesota.

3. Local Pizzerias on DoorDash & UberEats

  • Some regional pizza places offer Pickle Pizza for local delivery.
  • Check the specialty pizzas section on your favorite delivery app.

Pickle Pizza has taken the culinary world by storm, becoming one of the most talked-about food trends in recent years. But what makes this unique flavor combination so irresistible? The answer lies in a mix of scientific flavor pairing, social media influence, and the growing love for unconventional food trends.

The Science Behind the Flavor Profile

At first glance, pickles and pizza may seem like an odd pairing. However, there’s actual science behind why Pickle Pizza works so well.

1. The Perfect Balance of Acidity and Fat

  • Pickles are naturally acidic, thanks to the vinegar used in their brining process.
  • Cheese and pizza dough are rich in fats and proteins.
  • Acidity cuts through fat, creating a balance that enhances the overall taste.

This is the same reason why people love adding pickles to burgers—the acidity brightens the rich flavors, making the dish feel less heavy.

2. Umami Boost from Cheese and Pickles

  • Cheese, especially aged cheese like Parmesan or provolone, contains umami compounds that enhance savory flavors.
  • Pickles, especially fermented varieties like kosher dills, also contain umami from the fermentation process.
  • Together, they intensify the depth of flavor in each bite.

3. Textural Contrast: Crunch vs. Melted Cheese

One of the best parts of Pickle Pizza is the contrast in textures:

  • Crispy crust provides a firm base.
  • Melted cheese adds gooey creaminess.
  • Crunchy pickles offer a fresh, snappy bite.

This variety in texture makes Pickle Pizza more exciting to eat than a traditional slice.

Social Media and the Viral Trend of Pickle Pizza

1. The Rise of Food Trends on TikTok and Instagram

Social media has played a huge role in the popularity of Pickle Pizza. With the rise of platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, food lovers are constantly looking for new, exciting recipes to try.

  • Videos of ooey-gooey Pickle Pizza slices being pulled apart went viral.
  • Food bloggers and influencers started reviewing it, generating even more buzz.
  • Some restaurants saw a 50% increase in demand after their Pickle Pizza went viral online.

2. Minnesota State Fair’s Influence

Pickle Pizza became one of the top-selling foods at the Minnesota State Fair, introducing it to thousands of new fans. Once people tasted it at the fair, demand for Pickle Pizza exploded nationwide.

3. DIY Recipes Gaining Popularity

After seeing Pickle Pizza trending, food enthusiasts began making homemade versions.

  • DIY Pickle Pizza recipes surged on Pinterest.
  • Chefs started experimenting with different sauces, cheeses, and spice blends.
  • Pickle Pizza even became a staple on food challenge shows like Chopped and MasterChef.

Pickle Pizza’s Popularity in Restaurants

Due to its viral success, many restaurants and pizzerias have added limited-time Pickle Pizzas to their menus. Some pizzerias have even made it a permanent menu item due to high demand.

  • QC Pizza in Minnesota saw record-breaking sales after their Kinda Big Dill pizza went viral.
  • New York pizzerias quickly caught on, adding pickle-topped white pizzas to their menus.

With its growing popularity, Pickle Pizza isn’t just a trend—it’s here to stay.

Pickle Pizza has carved out its own niche in the pizza world, but how does it compare to classic and trendy pizza styles? From traditional Italian pizza to cheeseburger-inspired creations, let’s break down the differences and see where Pickle Pizza stands in the lineup.

Pickle Pizza vs. Classic Italian Pizza

Traditional Italian pizza is all about simplicity and fresh ingredients, while Pickle Pizza leans into bold, unexpected flavors.

FeaturePickle PizzaClassic Italian Pizza (Neapolitan, Margherita, etc.)
SauceGarlic-dill sauce, ranch, or white sauceTomato-based sauce (San Marzano tomatoes)
CheeseMozzarella, provolone, ParmesanFresh mozzarella, Parmesan, or Pecorino
ToppingsDill pickles, beef, red pepper flakesBasil, olive oil, fresh tomato slices
CrustThin, crispy, or hand-tossedSoft, chewy, with charred edges
Flavor ProfileTangy, creamy, salty, and slightly sweetBalanced, light, fresh, and savory

Key Differences:

Pickle Pizza has a bolder, tangy flavor compared to the balanced simplicity of Italian pizza.
✅ Italian pizzas focus on minimal toppings, while Pickle Pizza is loaded with pickles and creamy sauces.
✅ If you love big, contrasting flavors, Pickle Pizza is a must-try!

Who Makes a Cheeseburger Pizza with Pickles?

Pickle Pizza shares some similarities with cheeseburger pizzas, which also feature pickles as a key topping. Some of the best cheeseburger pizzas include:

1. Domino’s Cheeseburger Pizza

  • Features mustard-ketchup sauce, ground beef, American cheese, and pickles.
  • Similar to Pickle Pizza, but with a more meat-heavy flavor.

2. Little Caesars “Beef Cheeseburger” Pizza

  • Topped with cheddar cheese, ground beef, and pickles.
  • Often comes with a garlic-butter crust, similar to Pickle Pizza.

3. Local Pizzerias’ Custom Cheeseburger Pizzas

  • Many small pizzerias offer DIY cheeseburger pizzas, where you can add pickles as a topping.
  • Some even drizzle mustard or burger sauce for an extra burger-like taste.

So, is Pickle Pizza just a cheeseburger pizza without the beef? Not quite! While cheeseburger pizzas include meat and mustard-based sauces, Pickle Pizza is all about garlic, dill, and a lighter, tangier profile.

Pickle Pizza vs. Other Unique Pizza Styles

Pickle Pizza vs. White Pizza

  • White Pizza (Pizza Bianca) is made with a creamy ricotta or garlic sauce instead of tomato sauce.
  • Pickle Pizza is similar, but adds pickles for an acidic kick.
  • Both are rich and creamy, but Pickle Pizza has a sharper, more tangy taste.

Pickle Pizza vs. Buffalo Chicken Pizza

  • Buffalo Chicken Pizza is spicy and creamy, featuring buffalo sauce and blue cheese.
  • Pickle Pizza focuses on garlic, dill, and acidity, making it a cooler, tangier option.
  • If you love heat, Buffalo Chicken Pizza wins. If you prefer tanginess, Pickle Pizza is the better choice.

Pickle Pizza vs. Hawaiian Pizza

  • Hawaiian Pizza is another controversial favorite, featuring pineapple and ham.
  • Both pizzas challenge traditional pizza rules with bold, sweet-sour contrasts.
  • Pickle Pizza leans savory, while Hawaiian Pizza has a sweeter twist.

Fun Fact: Hawaiian Pizza was invented in Canada in 1962—not Hawaii!

Which Pizza Should You Try?

If You Like…Try This Pizza
Classic Italian flavorsNeapolitan or Margherita Pizza
Bold, tangy toppingsPickle Pizza
Spicy, creamy heatBuffalo Chicken Pizza
Meat-heavy flavorsCheeseburger Pizza
Sweet and salty contrastHawaiian Pizza
Garlic and cheese richnessWhite Pizza

Ultimately, Pickle Pizza is perfect for adventurous eaters who love tangy, creamy, and crunchy flavors.

Fun Variations of Pickle Pie Pizza

Who Invented Pickle Pizza? A homemade version with fresh ingredients.

Pickle Pie Pizza is already a bold and unique dish, but there are plenty of ways to customize it to fit different flavor preferences. Whether you like your pizza spicy, extra cheesy, or with a hint of sweetness, these fun variations will take your pickle pizza experience to the next level!

1. Dill Pickle and Ranch Pizza (For the Ranch Lovers)

This version is perfect for ranch dressing enthusiasts. It swaps out the traditional garlic-dill sauce for a creamy ranch base, which enhances the tangy pickle flavor.

How to Make It:

✅ Use ranch dressing as the pizza sauce.
✅ Top with mozzarella, cheddar, and provolone for a blend of flavors.
✅ Add sliced dill pickles and a sprinkle of garlic powder.
✅ Garnish with fresh chopped dill and extra ranch drizzle before serving.

Why Try It? The creamy, herby ranch complements the pickles’ acidity, creating a perfectly balanced bite!

2. Spicy Pickle Pizza with Jalapeños (For the Heat Seekers)

If you love a little kick, adding spicy elements to Pickle Pizza can make it even more exciting.

How to Make It:

✅ Start with a garlic aioli or white sauce base.
✅ Add a mix of spicy dill pickles and fresh jalapeño slices.
✅ Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
✅ Optional: Drizzle with hot honey for a sweet-spicy contrast.

Why Try It? The combination of spicy, tangy, and creamy makes for an addictive flavor explosion.

3. Fried Pickle Pizza (For the Crunch Lovers)

This version takes Pickle Pizza to the next level of crunch by using breaded fried pickles instead of raw pickles.

How to Make It:

✅ Use a spicy mayo or ranch base.
✅ Add mozzarella and Monterey Jack cheese.
✅ Fry pickle slices with panko breadcrumbs, then place them on top after baking.
✅ Serve with a side of ranch or honey mustard for dipping.

Why Try It? The crispy, golden-brown fried pickles add an incredible texture contrast to the melty cheese.

4. Hot Honey Pickle Pizza (For the Sweet & Spicy Fans)

One of the biggest trends in pizza right now is hot honey, and it pairs surprisingly well with pickles!

How to Make It:

✅ Use a creamy white sauce base.
✅ Add mozzarella and provolone cheese.
✅ Layer with dill pickles and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
✅ Drizzle hot honey over the pizza right before serving.

Why Try It? The sweet-spicy balance of hot honey and pickles creates a mouthwatering contrast.

5. Cheeseburger Pickle Pizza (For the Burger Lovers)

This version transforms Pickle Pizza into a cheeseburger-inspired masterpiece.

How to Make It:

✅ Use a ketchup-mustard sauce instead of traditional pizza sauce.
✅ Add ground beef and cheddar cheese for that classic cheeseburger taste.
✅ Top with sliced pickles and diced onions.
✅ Serve with a side of burger sauce for dipping.

Why Try It? It’s like eating a cheeseburger and pizza at the same time—what’s not to love?

Which Pickle Pizza Variation Should You Try?

If You Like…Try This Version
Creamy & herby flavorsDill Pickle and Ranch Pizza
Spicy & bold flavorsSpicy Pickle Pizza with Jalapeños
Smoky & salty bitesBeef and Pickle Pizza
Crispy texturesFried Pickle Pizza
Sweet & tangy contrastHot Honey Pickle Pizza
Classic cheeseburger tasteCheeseburger Pickle Pizza

FAQs About Pickle Pie Pizza

Pickle Pie Pizza has taken the food world by storm, leaving many people curious about its origins, flavors, and where to find the best versions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about this tangy, cheesy, and crunchy pizza sensation.

Who Invented Pickle Pizza?

Pickle Pizza gained popularity thanks to QC Pizza in Mahtomedi, Minnesota, which introduced the “Kinda Big Dill” pizza featuring a garlic-dill sauce, pickles, and mozzarella. However, variations of pickle-topped pizzas have existed for years, particularly in cheeseburger pizzas, which often included pickles as a topping.

What Do Italians Call a Pizza Pie?

In Italy, the word “pizza” is used on its own. The term “pizza pie” is more common in the United States, particularly in New York-style pizzerias, where pizza is sometimes referred to as a “tomato pie” or just “pie.”

What Pizza Place Makes Pickle Pizza?

Several pizza places across the U.S. now offer Pickle Pizza. Some of the best places to try it include:
QC Pizza (Minnesota) – The original viral Pickle Pizza.
Rhino’s Pizzeria (New York) – Famous for their white-sauce pickle pizza.
Papa Murphy’s (Select Locations) – Offers a Pickle Beef Ranch Pizza in some locations.
If you can’t find it near you, some pizzerias allow custom toppings, so you may be able to request pickles on your favorite pizza.

Who Sells Pickle Pizza at the MN State Fair?

The Minnesota State Fair is one of the best places to try Pickle Pizza! Popular vendors include:
Rick’s Pizza Stand – One of the first to bring Pickle Pizza to the fair.
Pizza Barn (Princeton, MN) – Offers a crispy crust version with extra garlic-dill sauce.
Limited-Time Vendors – Some booths sell special edition Pickle Pizzas during the fair only.
Due to its popularity, Pickle Pizza often sells out fast at the fair—so make sure to get there early!

Why Is Pickle Pizza So Good?

Pickle Pizza works so well because of the perfect balance of flavors and textures:
Tangy pickles contrast with the creamy cheese.
Garlic-dill sauce adds a bold, herby kick.
Crunchy pickles + crispy crust create the ultimate texture balance.
Salt + acidity enhances umami flavors in the cheese and dough.
It’s the same reason cheeseburgers taste better with pickles—the acidity cuts through the richness, making each bite more flavorful.

When Was Hawaiian Pizza Invented?

Hawaiian Pizza, featuring pineapple and ham, was invented in 1962 by Sam Panopoulos, a Canadian restaurateur. Despite its name, it has no direct connection to Hawaii—it was simply named after the Hawaiian brand of canned pineapple used in the original recipe.
Both Hawaiian Pizza and Pickle Pizza challenge traditional pizza toppings, making them controversial yet beloved by adventurous eaters.

Who Was the First Pizza Place in America?

The first pizzeria in America was Lombardi’s Pizza, opened in 1905 in New York City. It served classic Neapolitan-style pizza, which was much simpler than today’s creative versions like Pickle Pizza.

Who Makes a Cheeseburger Pizza with Pickles?

Many pizza places offer cheeseburger pizzas that include pickles as a topping. Some of the best options include:
Domino’s Cheeseburger Pizza – Topped with mustard sauce, ground beef, and pickles.
Little Caesars “Beef Cheeseburger” Pizza – Features beef, cheddar, and pickles.
Local Pizzerias – Many restaurants offer customizable cheeseburger pizzas, so you can add pickles to complete the flavor.
Pickle Pizza and Cheeseburger Pizza share some similarities, but Pickle Pizza is lighter, tangier, and focuses more on garlic and dill flavors.

Can You Make Pickle Pizza at Home?

Yes! Pickle Pizza is easy to make at home with a few simple ingredients:
A crispy pizza crust
Garlic-dill or ranch sauce
Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
Sliced dill pickles
Fresh dill for garnish

Why You Need to Try Pickle Pie Pizza Today

Pickle Pie Pizza is more than just a viral food trend—it’s a delicious, flavor-packed experience that balances tangy, creamy, and crunchy elements in every bite. Whether you’re a pickle fanatic or just someone who loves experimenting with new flavors, this pizza is worth trying.

Why Pickle Pizza is a Must-Try

Perfect flavor balance – The acidity of pickles cuts through the richness of the cheese.
Unique yet familiar – It’s different from traditional pizza but still comforting and satisfying.
Customizable – From spicy jalapeños to crispy beef, you can create your perfect version.
Easy to make at home – With a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy Pickle Pizza anytime.
Available at top pizzerias – From QC Pizza to the Minnesota State Fair, you can find this trending dish in multiple places.

If you’ve never tried Pickle Pie Pizza before, now is the time to give it a shot! Whether you make it at home or grab a slice at a local pizzeria, it’s an unforgettable twist on a classic dish.

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