Introduction
Pizza is already a guaranteed crowd‑pleaser—but a truly memorable pizza party is about the full spread. The right sides, drinks, and desserts turn a simple pizza night into an event your guests will remember (and ask you to host again!).
In this guide, we’ll cover the best appetizers, salads, snacks, drinks, and desserts to serve with pizza—whether you’re hosting a birthday party, game day, or casual Friday night hangout.
Classic & Crowd-Pleasing Appetizers
Before the main pizza trays come out, warm up appetites with familiar favorites:
| Side Dish |
Why It Works with Pizza |
| Garlic Bread or Garlic Knots | Soft, buttery, garlicky perfection; complements pizza’s cheesy flavors. |
| Mozzarella Sticks | A crispy, cheesy snack that guests can dip in marinara or ranch. |
| Bruschetta | Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil for a fresh bite. |
| Stuffed Jalapeños | Adds a spicy, creamy option for more adventurous palates. |
| Caprese Skewers | Bite‑sized mozz balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze. |
Pro Tip: Serve dipping sauces like marinara, garlic butter, and ranch alongside for variety.
Salads – Fresh & Light Counterpoints
Pizza is cheesy and rich—balance it with a crisp, refreshing salad:
- Caesar Salad– Crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, Parmesan, and croutons.
- Greek Salad– Olives, feta, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion with a tangy dressing.
- Garden Salad– A mix of fresh greens, shredded carrots, bell peppers, and your choice of dressing.
- Caprese Salad– Mozzarella, tomato, fresh basil, olive oil, and balsamic.
- Arugula Salad– Peppery greens with lemon vinaigrette pair wonderfully with Margherita pizza.
Vegetable-Focused Sides
Add color and nutrients without taking away from the pizza indulgence:
| Dish |
Flavor Notes |
| Roasted Veggies | Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add sweet, smoky flavors. |
| Grilled Asparagus | Lightly charred for earthy freshness. |
| Zucchini Fries | Baked or fried for a healthier “fry” side. |
| Stuffed Mushrooms | Great as bite‑size vegetarian hors d’oeuvres. |
| Corn on the Cob (Grilled) | Sweet, juicy kernels with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. |
Protein Options That Steal the Show
For hungry guests or mixed appetites, add a few protein‑based sides:
- Buffalo Wings – Spicy or BBQ glazed, perfect game‑day pairing.
- Meatballs in Marinara – Italian classic; smaller cocktail‑style meatballs make excellent finger food.
- Prosciutto-Wrapped Breadsticks – Savory, salty, and elegant for wine nights.
Drinks to Pair with Pizza
Beverages can make or break the vibe of your party. Try these:
- Classic Sodas– Cola, root beer, or lemon‑lime (for casual gatherings).
- Beer Pairings– Light lagers with Margherita pizza; hoppy IPAs with spicy or meaty pies.
- Wine Pairings– Chardonnay for veggie pizzas, Chianti for pepperoni or sausage pies.
- Mocktails– Italian sodas, iced tea, lemonade for family‑friendly parties.
- Sparkling Water– Refreshes the palate between slices.
Dessert Ideas That Impress
Finish strong with something sweet:
| Dessert |
Why It Works |
| Tiramisu | Classic Italian dessert with coffee and mascarpone layers. |
| Cannoli | Crispy shells with sweet ricotta filling. |
| Gelato | Lighter than ice cream but decadent. |
| Brownie Bites | Easy to serve and universally loved. |
| Fruit Skewers | Refreshing palate cleanser after cheesy pizza. |
| Chocolate-Covered Strawberries | Elegant and easy to prepare. |
Other Pizza Party Add‑Ons
For themed events or gourmet touches:
- Charcuterie Board (cheeses, olives, crackers, nuts)
- Antipasto Platter (marinated vegetables, artichokes, roasted peppers)
- Mini Calzones as a fun variation
- Breadsticks with Pesto Dip
- Flatbread Appetizers for a teaser round
Tips for Planning Your Pizza Party Menu
- Plan Quantities Carefully – Estimate 2–3 slices of pizza per adult, plus at least 1–2 sides per person.
- Mix Heavy & Light Options – Balance indulgent fried appetizers with fresh salads or veggies.
- Serve Buffet‑Style – Makes it easy for guests to mix and match.
- Have Vegetarian & Meat Options – Keep everyone happy with a variety of toppings & sides
- Don’t Forget Plates & Napkins – Pizza + wings + dipping sauce = messy hands
FAQs
- What is a good side dish for a pizza party?
Garlic bread, mozzarella sticks, Caesar salad, and chicken wings are among the most popular. - What is complementary with pizza?
Anything salty, tangy, crispy, or fresh—like olives, pickled veggies, salads, or cheesy bread. - What food pairs well with pizza?
Appetizers (bruschetta, mozzarella sticks), salads, wings, and antipasto platters pair beautifully. - What desserts go well with pizza?
Italian desserts like tiramisu, cannoli, and gelato or lighter choices like fresh fruit skewers. - How many pizzas for 20 people?
Plan for ~2–3 slices per person for adults (about 7–8 large pizzas for 20 guests, depending on side dishes served). - What is the best combination with pizza?
Many hosts love pairing pizza with wings, garlic knots, salad, and soda or beer. - What finger foods go well with pizza?
Mozzarella sticks, bruschetta, stuffed mushrooms, wings, and caprese skewers.
