Move over pineapple, pickles are here to rule pizza night. This bold twist on traditional pizza brings together the creamy comfort of garlic-dill sauce, the sharp bite of pickles, and the melty joy of mozzarella. Pickle pizza may sound odd at first, but one bite and you’ll understand why it’s become a viral favorite.
Originally a quirky food fair hit, it’s now a full-blown trend. Dill pickle pizza blends salty, tangy, and creamy flavors into one satisfying slice. It’s perfect for anyone who loves bold food and wants something different for game day or dinner.
This recipe shows you how to make dill pickle pizza at home with easy steps, flexible toppings, and crust options that suit all diets. Curious, unsure, or obsessed with pickles this could easily earn a spot on your favorites list.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Origins & Trend Context
Pickle pizza didn’t just appear out of nowhere. Its rise started in Minnesota, thanks to QC Pizza. They introduced a dill-packed pie that quickly captured attention for its odd but oddly perfect flavor combo. Their version, often called the “Kinda Big Dill,” mixed creamy garlic sauce with a layer of pickles and cheese. It was a hit at local fairs and quickly went viral on social media.
In 2025, pickle pizza landed on the Slice of the Union trend report, predicting it as a top pizza flavor of the year. From TikTok to food blogs, people couldn’t get enough. Whole Foods even launched a frozen dill pickle pizza, showing just how far this once-niche idea had come.
The Midwest connection adds to its charm. Some even compare it to “Minnesota sushi,” with pickles taking the spotlight in a surprising but satisfying way. The trend is now a full-on movement, bringing pickle lovers something truly new to love.
Why Pickle Pizza Works (And Why You’ll Love It)
Pickle pizza delivers a flavor experience that’s bold, creamy, and seriously addictive. It combines the salty tang of brined pickles with rich, garlicky white sauce and melty cheese on a crisp crust. The balance is what makes it work. It hits all the right notes: tangy, savory, creamy, and crunchy.
It started as a food experiment at QC Pizza in Minnesota. Now, it’s a full-blown trend embraced by foodies, home cooks, and even big grocery chains. It’s not just a gimmick. The mix of creamy garlic, sharp pickles, and bubbling cheese just works.
Perfect for game day, quirky pizza nights, or impressing your pickle-loving friends, this recipe stands out. It’s comfort food with a briny kick. The crisp crust supports the toppings without going soggy, and the white sauce ties it all together.
If you love bold flavors, this pizza’s going to win you over fast.
Pickle Pizza Ingredients & Substitutions
Base Sauce Options
The sauce sets the stage. Here are your top picks:
- Garlic Ranch: Creamy, tangy, and full of flavor.
- Cream Cheese + Dill: Rich and smooth with a herby punch.
- Sour Cream Mix: Light but flavorful, especially with mayo and dried dill.
Substitution Tip: No sour cream? Use plain Greek yogurt. Out of pickle juice? Lemon juice adds acidity in a pinch.
Pickles – The Star Ingredient
The pickles make the pizza. Not all are equal.
Best Types:
- Kosher Dill: Classic, bold flavor.
- Spicy Garlic: Adds a kick.
- Want to keep it strictly savory? Steer clear of bread and butter.
Tips:
- Always slice thin.
- Blot them gently with a paper towel to keep the crust crisp.
Best Pickles for Pizza (Quick Compare)
| Type | Flavor | Best Use |
| Kosher Dill | Bold, tangy | Classic flavor base |
| Spicy Garlic | Zesty, sharp | Great for heat lovers |
| Bread & Butter | Sweet | Skip for savory-style pizza |
Cheese Choices
You want cheeses that melt well and boost flavor.
- Mozzarella: Essential for melt and stretch.
- Parmesan: Adds depth and sharpness.
- Cheddar (optional): Brings extra richness.
Tip: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
Crust Options
Choose your base based on time, diet, or taste.
- Store-Bought: Quick and easy.
- Homemade: Offers full control over thickness and texture.
- Gluten-Free: Look for cauliflower-based crusts.
- Keto or Low-Carb: Try almond flour or cheese-based crusts.
Crust Variants vs. Bake Time
How to Make Pickle Pizza (Step-by-Step Guide)
Prep the Crust
Preheat your oven to 500°F. Position the rack in the lower third of the oven and place a pizza stone or inverted rimmed baking sheet inside to heat up.
Dust your work surface with flour. Grab a dough ball and gently press it flat with your palms. Press from the center out, shaping it into a 12 to 14-inch circle. For a thinner crust, lift the edges and let gravity help stretch the dough evenly.
Sprinkle cornmeal on a pizza peel or a rimless baking sheet. It keeps the dough from sticking and makes moving the pizza a breeze.
Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the following:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon pickle juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Taste and adjust if needed. Chill the sauce for ten minutes to blend flavors.
Layer the Toppings
Transfer the stretched dough onto the cornmeal-dusted peel. Spoon about 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons of the sauce onto the crust. Spread it out with the back of a spoon, leaving a half-inch edge bare.
Add 1/2 cup sliced pickles, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Then add another 1/2 cup of pickles on top and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon dried dill.
Bake It Perfectly
Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated stone or sheet. Bake for 11–13 minutes, until the crust turns golden and the cheese is nice and bubbly.
Remove using a peel and place the pizza on a cooling rack for a few minutes before slicing.
Final Garnishes
Sprinkle a little more dried dill or drizzle with extra sauce for a bolder flavor. Add red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Cut into slices and serve hot.
Repeat with the second dough ball using the remaining sauce and toppings.
Best Pickle Pizza Recipe (Tangy, Creamy & Totally Dill-icious) 2025
Ingredients
For the garlic-dill sauce
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon pickle juice
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
For the pizza
- 2 1-pound balls pizza dough, homemade or store-bought, at room temperature
- All-purpose flour for dusting the countertop
- Cornmeal to dust the peel or baking sheet
- ¾ cup garlic-dill sauce divided
- 2 cups jarred dill pickle slices patted dry, divided
- 2 cups shredded whole-milk low-moisture mozzarella cheese divided
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese divided
- 1 teaspoon dried dill divided
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 500°F:
- Arrange a rack in the lower third of the oven and place an inverted rimmed baking sheet or pizza stone on it.
Prepare the sauce:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, dried dill, dill pickle juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Stretch the dough:
- Take one ball of dough and flatten it with your hands on a lightly floured work surface. Starting at the center and working outwards, use your fingertips to press the dough into a 12 to 14-inch circle. You can also hold up the edges of the dough with your fingers, letting it hang and stretch while working around the edges. Repeat with the second ball of dough.
Build the pizza:
- Lightly sprinkle a pizza peel or rimless baking sheet with cornmeal. Transfer one prepared dough round to the peel. Spoon on half the sauce (about 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons) and spread it in an even layer using the back of a spoon, leaving 1/2-inch from the edge bare. Arrange 1/2 cup pickles over the sauce, followed by 1 cup mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Top with 1/2 cup pickles and 1/2 teaspoon dried dill.
Bake the pizza:
- Carefully sprinkle some cornmeal onto the preheated baking sheet or stone. Slide the pizza onto the sheet (it’s okay if it’s hanging over the edges slightly) and bake for 11 to 13 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
Repeat and serve:
- Use a pizza peel to remove the pizza from the oven and transfer it to a cooling rack.
- Prepare and bake the other pizza in the same manner.
Notes
-
Prevent soggy crust, drizzle oil, sprinkle dill seasoning.
-
Dough options: homemade vs store-bought vs cauliflower crust (like Caulipower gluten-free version).
- Torque cheese: fresh grated mozzarella vs pre-shredded, cheese-blend tips
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Pickle
Keep Your Crust Crisp
The main challenge with pickle pizza? Avoiding a soggy crust.
To avoid it:
- Always pat pickles dry before layering
- Use cornmeal under the dough to prevent sticking
- Bake on a hot pizza stone or inverted sheet for a firm bottom
Choose the Right Cheese Blend
Freshly grated mozzarella melts better and creates that ideal stretch. Boost the flavor by mixing in some sharp cheddar or a sprinkle of Parmesan. Avoid using only pre-shredded cheese, as it may not melt smoothly.
Try Different Dough Styles
- Store-bought dough is quick and reliable
- Homemade dough gives you full control
- Cauliflower crusts like Caulipower offer a gluten-free alternative
Brushing the crust edge lightly with olive oil before baking adds a nice golden finish.
Season It Up
Dried dill or pickle seasoning sprinkled over the finished pizza gives a little flavor boost. A drizzle of olive oil or ranch just before serving adds richness.
Add-Ins Without Overload
Too many toppings can weigh it down. Stick to light add-ins like:
- Crumbled bacon
- Sliced jalapeños
- Fresh chopped dill
These give extra punch without making the pizza soggy.
Variations & Serving Ideas
Pickle Pizza Variations
Traditional Style
Use classic pizza dough, garlic-dill sauce, mozzarella, and plenty of dill pickles. This is the go-to version that started the trend.
Puff Pastry Pickle Pizza
Flaky and light, puff pastry makes a fun appetizer version. Great for parties or brunch. Bake at a slightly lower temp to avoid over-browning.
Cheeseburger Pickle Pizza
Add ground beef, cheddar cheese, and even a few tomato slices. It delivers big diner vibes with every bite.
Vegan Pickle Pizza
Use vegan cream cheese, vegan ranch, and dairy-free mozzarella. For protein, try plant-based bacon or tempeh crumbles. The flavor stays bold with zero animal products.
Creative Add-Ins
- Bacon: Crumbled and crisp
- Fresh Herbs: Dill, parsley, or chives
- Jalapeños: For a little heat
- Pickle Seasoning: Sprinkled on top before baking
Keep toppings light to maintain balance and avoid sogginess.
Serving Ideas
Pickle pizza pairs well with:
- Crisp salad: Think romaine with ranch or vinaigrette
- Coleslaw or veggie slaw: Adds crunch
- Veggie sticks: Carrot, celery, cucumber
- Wings: Great for game day
- Cold beer or sparkling wine: Both cut through the richness
For keto audiences, pair with low-carb salad or roasted vegetables.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
How to Store Leftovers
Cool your pickle pizza completely before storing. Place slices in a sealed container and refrigerate. Add parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. Eat within 3 to 4 days for best taste and texture.
Freezer-Friendly Instructions
Want to save some for later? Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them into a zip-top freezer bag. Be sure to press out extra air. Label the bag with the date and use it within two months.
Extra tip: You can also freeze unbaked, assembled pizza. Wrap it on a baking tray, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen solid.
Reheating Methods That Work
To keep the crust crispy and the cheese gooey, skip the microwave.
Try these instead:
- Oven: Bake at 425°F for 10 minutes directly on the rack or on a heated sheet
- Toaster Oven: Set to 400°F and heat for about 8 minutes
- Air Fryer: Heat at 370°F for 4 minutes
Add fresh dill or extra sauce after reheating for a flavor boost.
Nutrition Facts
What’s in a Slice?
Nutrition can vary depending on the crust and cheese you use. Here’s a breakdown based on one slice of traditional pickle pizza using regular dough and full-fat cheese.
Estimated Per Slice:
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 10 grams
- Carbs: 24 grams
- Fat: 16 grams
- Sodium: 750 milligrams
Nutrition by Crust Type
| Crust Type | Calories | Carbs | Notes |
| Traditional Dough | 280 | 24 g | Balanced flavor and texture |
| Puff Pastry | 320 | 27 g | Richer, buttery base |
| Cauliflower Crust | 210 | 12 g | Lower carb, gluten-free |
| Vegan Dough | 250 | 22 g | Depends on brand or recipe |
Lighter Swaps
Want to cut calories or fat? Try these:
- Use light mozzarella or a blend with part-skim
- Swap in Greek yogurt for mayo or sour cream in the sauce
- Choose cauliflower crust for a low-carb option
These small tweaks help you keep the flavor without going overboard.
Step-by-Step Photos
Include clear photos of each major step:
- Mixing the garlic dill sauce
- Stretching the dough
- Layering the pickles and cheese
- Pizza just out of the oven
- Final garnish with dill and drizzle
Conclusion
Pickle pizza isn’t just a trend. It’s a bold, crave-worthy recipe that brings something unexpected to the table. With its creamy garlic base, crisp crust, and tangy dill topping, it hits every flavor note that makes a slice memorable.
Whether you go classic, vegan, or cheeseburger-style, this recipe is flexible, fun, and totally satisfying. The options are endless and the prep is easier than you think.
Tried it out? Drop a comment and leave a star rating below. We’d love to know what version you made and how it turned out. Tag us on Instagram so we can see your take on this tangy twist.
What’s your favorite way to top a pickle pizza? Share your ideas and keep the flavor conversation going.
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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
How long can you freeze pickle pizza safely?
Once baked, pickle pizza can be frozen and enjoyed within two months. Individually wrap each slice in plastic, then store them together in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat straight from frozen for best results.
What are the best pickles to use?
Kosher dill pickles are the top choice for their bold, salty flavor. Spicy garlic pickles are great if you like heat. Avoid sweet varieties like bread and butter, as they don’t match the savory profile.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use a certified gluten-free crust like cauliflower or almond flour-based dough. Always check that sauces and toppings are also gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Is it healthy?
Pickle pizza can be made lighter by using part-skim mozzarella, a cauliflower crust, and low-fat sauce alternatives. Watch out for high sodium content, especially from the pickles and cheese.
How to prevent soggy crust?
Always pat pickles dry before using. Don’t overload with sauce, and preheat your baking surface for a crisper base.
Where did pickle pizza originate?
It gained fame at QC Pizza in Minnesota. The ‘Kinda Big Dill’ pizza kicked off the viral craze and led to countless homemade takes.
Can you add protein?
Yes. Try crumbled bacon, grilled chicken, or even pulled pork. For plant-based versions, use vegan bacon or seasoned tofu.
