12 Classic Italian Pizza Recipes That Are Pure Happiness

Pizza in Italy is a serious matter. You may not believe this, but there are different kinds of crusts, depending on the area of Italy you are eating in. There are also rather strict rules on what is acceptable or not—as far as sauce and pizza toppings go.

What are the different Italian pizza crusts?

As a rule of thumb, the pizza crust is thicker in the south and thinner in the northern part of the country. So, Sicilian pizza is thick and fluffy, while pizza in Milan is thin and crusty. As for the sauce, Italians only use plain tomato sauce. You can add some salt, extra virgin olive oil and oregano to the tomato purée or leave it plain if you like, but anything other than that is not what Italians use on their pizza. The basic cheese is always fresh mozzarella, the one that melts but remains soft and stretchy. We don’t use any shredded cheese.

What are the best real Italian pizza toppings?

When it comes to the remaining toppings, there are many classic combinations. Whatever you choose, however, remember that Italian pizza does not come overflowing with toppings. Generally speaking, we use vegetables (often grilled or raw), different cheeses, tuna and cured meats. We NEVER put meat (or chicken!) on our pizza, with the only exception being sausage.

Another fun fact: Italians don’t usually eat pizza by the slice. When we eat our pizza, we have a full one each, no sharing!

Best Italian pizza recipes

This collection of 12 best Italian pizza recipes includes classics like Margherita Pizza, Prosciutto Rocket and Grana Cheese Pizza, Tuna and Onion Pizza, Blue Cheese Prosciutto Pizza and Sausage Arugula Pizza and Pizza Ortolana (made with grilled vegetables). There are also lesser-known recipes such as Sicilian Style Pepperoni Pizza, Pizzette, Fried Pizza and even Nutella Pizza. Yep, you read that right! This is often found on a pizzeria menu—as dessert.

So, what are you waiting for? Peruse these recipes and get into the kitchen to make a classic pizza like a real Italian!

This pizza Margherita echoes back to the classic Italian pie originally created for a visiting queen. Our version uses all of the basic elements of the original, with two big additions: convenience and ease! Get the recipe HERE.

Calabrian chiles are a zingy variety with plenty of heat. Look for them in Italian delis or online. You also can substitute a thinly sliced fresh serrano or Fresno chile. Get the recipe HERE.

This blue cheese Prosciutto pizza has a little tang from the blue cheese but pairs excellently with the raw Prosciutto. Get the recipe HERE.

Pizza Ortolana is a traditional vegetarian topping for authentic Italian pizza. Get the recipe HERE.

A healthier homemade pizza with Prosciutto, rocket and Grana Padano cheese! Get the recipe HERE.

An Italian grandmother's recipe for fried pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella and anchovies. Get the recipe HERE.

How to make an Italian party favorite: pizzette. Aka little pizzas with olives and ham! Get the recipe HERE.

This homemade sausage arugula pizza is bursting with the bold flavor of peppery arugula and flavorful sausage. Get the recipe HERE.

Made with fresh marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, basil and fresh tomatoes, this classic Margherita pizza is simple, classic, and absolutely delicious! Get the recipe HERE.

Tuna and onions are traditional toppings for an authentic Italian pizza. Get the recipe HERE.

Sicilian-style pepperoni pizza has a thick crust and is a square pie baked up crispy on the bottom and light and chewy on the inside. Dense yet light all at the same time. Get the recipe HERE.

Nutella pizza has a pizza base, topped with Nutella, whipped cream and toasted hazelnuts. Get the recipe HERE.