15 Popular Types of Pizza You Need to Try at Least Once

Every pizza lover can relate to this. From Friday night indulgence to family dinners and midnight cravings, pizza is that one food that unites people across borders and tastes. Be you a thin crust enthusiast or a deep dish aficionado, the world of pizza is vast, delicious, and full of surprises.

We are fortunate in Canada to enjoy such a variety of various styles of pizza due to our cultural diversity and adventurous nature. From old-fashioned traditional Italian-style slices to experimental fusion-style pies, pizza choices today have diversified way beyond pepperoni and cheese.

So are you ready to learn about the world's greatest pizzas? The following are 15 popular Types of Pizza you absolutely have to try at least once. Warning: reading this can lead to extreme cravings.

1. Neapolitan Pizza

Let's begin with the original. Neapolitan pizza is from Naples, Italy, and that's also where the history of the pizza begins. It's straightforward, classic, and full of flavor. It has a soft, chewy, and lightly charred crust that consists of extremely refined wheat flour, San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and olive oil. It's quickly cooked at extremely high heat, usually in a wood-fired oven.

A Margherita or Marinara Neapolitan pizza is not merely food—it's history on a plate.

2. New York-Style Pizza

If you've ever walked down New York's streets, you've probably witnessed someone grab an enormous slice of pizza and fold it in half and walk while eating it. That's New York-style pizza a large, thin crust pizza that's crunchy but foldable.

It's famous for its large slices, zesty tomato sauce, and stretchy mozzarella. It's great for a fast bite or for a casual hangout with buddies. In Toronto or Vancouver in Canada, for example, there are many places that serve this famous slice.

3. Chicago Deep Dish Pizza

If you're the kind of person who likes the more the merrier approach, then Chicago deep dish is your go. The pizza looks like a pie I say that literally. The crust is dense, buttery, and puffs on the sides of the pan; it is loaded with layers of cheese, heavy chunky tomato sauce, and topping.

It's cooked a little bit longer so that all that yumminess cooks through completely. Warning: you might only need a fork and a knife on this one. It's on the verge of meal territory instead of snack!

4. Detroit-Style Pizza

Detroit-style pizza is a square marvel with a thick, chewy crust that's crispy at the edges. The cheese extends all the way to the edge to produce a caramelized, crunchy border.

Interestingly, the sauce is poured over the cheese and toppings reversing the traditional order. It's comforting, hearty, and ideal for cold Canadian nights.

5. Sicilian Pizza

This square-shaped pizza originated in Sicily, Italy. It's famous for its thick, light crust and abundant tomato foundation. Original Sicilian pizza does not contain cheese, but the North American version (also known as Grandma pizza) usually consists of mozzarella and other toppings.

Sicilian pizza is perfect if you are looking for something warm, filling, and packed with flavor.

6. Greek Pizza

Greek pizza is a bit unique compared to pizzas that are Italian. The crust is chewy but not as thick as a deep dish. The only variation Greek pizza has is it is cooked in shallow, oily pans so it has a crispy and almost-fried crust.

The sauce is usually herb-predominant, and olives, feta, red onions, and occasionally spinach or tomatoes are typical toppings—hello Mediterranean flavor!

7. California-Style Pizza

Take this to be a variation of pizza. California pizza combines the Italian thin crust with novel, local, and occasionally non-traditional ingredients.

From arugula and goat cheese to avocado and smoked salmon, this pizza is all about creativity. It's a favorite among health-conscious pizza consumers and adventurous consumers who enjoy experimenting with new foods.

8. St. Louis-Style Pizza

St. Louis style pizza is a gem. Thin and cracker crust, square cut (also known as the "party cut"), and topped with a proprietary processed cheese known as Prove.

If you are a fan of super-slim crusts and a blend of smoky, tangy, and creamy, you got to try this one out.

9. Stuffed Crust Pizza

Yes, this one's for the cheese fans! Stuffed crust pizza contains mozzarella (or some other cheese) baked directly into the crust. The payoff? A cheesy surprise at the end of every bite.

It's popular with most Canadian pizza establishments and is a favorite among kids (and adults who are kids at heart around pizza).

10. White Pizza

No tomato sauce on this one—it's white pizza, topped with a garlic and olive oil foundation or with a cheesy sauce stand-in. Ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and herbs are on top, making it rich, cheesy, and indulgent.

Add chicken, mushrooms, or spinach for added richness. It's elegant, rich, and a pleasant respite from the usual red sauce.

11. Vegan Pizza

Plant-based diets are gaining popularity, and vegan pizza is gaining ground in style. With dairy-free cheese, veggie-filled toppings, and occasionally meat alternatives such as Beyond Meat or tofu, vegan pizzas are delicious and eco-friendly.

The majority of pizzerias across Canada now offer vegan options, so anyone can have a slice without losing anything.

12. Meat Lover's Pizza

Starving for protein? The meat lover's pizza doesn't play games. Typically topped with pepperoni, sausage, bacon, ham, and even beef on occasion, it's the meat-eater's dream.

It's rich, full-flavored, and absolutely satisfying—best enjoyed with an icy beverage and lots of napkins.

13. Hawaiian Pizza

Oh, yes, the notorious pineapple controversy. Love it or despise it, Hawaiian pizza, ham and pineapple, is certainly a hit.

Interestingly enough, it was invented in Canada (tons of credit given to Sam Panopoulos in Ontario), and not in Hawaii. Love it or hate it, it's Canadian pizza heritage!

14. BBQ Chicken Pizza

For a sweet and smoky option, BBQ chicken pizza is well-liked. It employs the use of barbecue sauce in place of tomato sauce and is topped with grilled chicken, red onion, cheese, and sometimes cilantro.

It is great for those who enjoy strong flavor and a pinch of heat to their pie.

15. Margherita Pizza

Plain, simple, and iconic Margherita pizza is unique. Comprising nothing but tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil, this pizza proves that less is more. It's the most suitable option if you wish to experience the pizza flavor without any interference.

Final Slice: Discovering the World One Pizza at a Time

The greatest thing about pizza is that it is so versatile. Thick or thin, meat or vegetables, hot or sweet, there's a pizza to be found that will be like it was created just for you. In Canada, we're spoiled for choice. From retro Italian pizzerias to trendy fusion restaurants, it's never been easier or more delicious to find different kinds of pizza. The next time you go out to eat or order in, break out of your cozy pizza habit. Who knows? Your new favorite may be something you've never even heard of today yet.

Bonus Tip: Pair It Up Don't forget, pizza's best friends are sides and beverages. Whether a good ol' colas, a craft brew, garlic knots, or Caesar salad, enjoying your pizza the right way can bring the whole experience to an entirely new level. So go ahead and grab your slice, take a bite, and enjoy the flavorful ride. Because life's too short for boring pizza.