Alright, let’s settle this right now—Pickle Pie Pizza is about to become your new favorite thing. Yes, you read that right. Pickles. On pizza. And not just any pizza—this one is slathered in a creamy garlic-dill sauce, loaded with thinly sliced pickles and baked to crispy, cheesy perfection.
If you’re the kind of person who sneaks extra pickles onto your burger or eats them straight from the jar (no shame, we’ve all been there), this Pickle Pie Pizza was made for you. It’s tangy, it’s savory and honestly, it’s kind of life-changing.
But what makes this pizza truly special? For starters, we’re using pickle juice right in the sauce for that extra kick. Then, instead of just tossing a few pickles on top, we’re layering them for the ultimate flavor punch. Oh and did I mention it’s ridiculously simple to make?
So, whether you’re a die-hard pickle fan or just a little curious, stick around. I’m going to walk you through the best homemade pickle pie pizza recipe, complete with pro tips to get that crispy crust and perfect balance of flavors. Believe me, you don’t want to miss this one! 🍕🥒
Table of Contents
What is Pickle Pie Pizza?
Alright, let’s talk about the magic that is Pickle Pie Pizza. It might sound like a wild idea, but trust me—this combination is a flavor bomb waiting to happen.
A Brief History of Pickle Pie Pizza
While Pickle Pie Pizza may feel like a bold, new creation, pickles on pizza have actually been around for a while. One of the most famous versions comes from QC Pizza in Minnesota, which gained internet fame for their “Kinda Big Dill” pizza. But let’s be real—pickles and cheesy, doughy goodness have been besties for a long time. Ever had a cheeseburger pizza? That little crunch from pickles takes it to the next level.
Now, food lovers are taking it a step further by making Pickle Pie Pizza a thing. And honestly? It’s about time.
Why Pickles Just Work on Pizza
At first, you might think, “Pickles? On pizza? Are we sure about this?” Yes. Yes, we are. Here’s why:
✅ Tangy Meets Creamy – The sharp, vinegar bite of pickles cuts through the richness of cheese like a dream. It’s that same balance that makes a dill pickle ranch dip so addictive.
✅ Savory, But With a Kick – The garlic-dill sauce used in Pickle Pie Pizza brings a whole new depth of flavor, blending creaminess with a slight tang from pickle juice.
✅ Crunch + Cheese = Perfection – That crispy, salty bite of pickles against melted mozzarella? Absolute gold. The key is using thinly sliced dill pickles, so they don’t overpower the cheese but instead blend into that perfect bite.
So, if you’ve never tried Pickle Pie Pizza, now’s the time. You’re about to experience something totally unexpected—and totally delicious. 🍕🥒
Ingredients & Substitutions for Pickle Pie Pizza
Now that you’re officially on board with the Pickle Pie Pizza trend (because, let’s be real, you are), it’s time to break down exactly what you need to make this tangy, cheesy masterpiece.
Essential Ingredients for Pickle Pie Pizza
To make the ultimate Pickle Pie Pizza, you’ll need a few key ingredients. The best part? Most of these are pantry staples—except maybe the pickles, but let’s be honest, you probably already have a jar in your fridge.
✅ Pizza Dough – Homemade or store-bought, but a thin crust works best for that perfect crisp.
✅ Garlic-Dill Sauce – This is the secret weapon. Mix sour cream, mayonnaise, pickle juice, garlic powder, salt, pepper and dried dill for a tangy, creamy base that ties everything together.
✅ Cheese – Mozzarella (low moisture) for that classic gooey melt and Parmesan to add a little sharpness. Trust me, the cheese makes all the difference in this Pickle Pie Pizza.
✅ Pickles – Thinly sliced dill pickles are the star of the show. They bring that iconic tang and crunch. You can pile them on, but layering is key—too many in one spot can overpower the flavors.
✅ Optional Toppings – If you want to take your Pickle Pie Pizza to the next level, try adding turkey bacon, beef bacon (adds a smoky, salty punch that pairs ridiculously well with pickles) or extra cheese.
Substitutions & Variations
Want to make your Pickle Pie Pizza your own? Here are some easy swaps and variations to fit your preferences:
🍕 For a Crispier Crust – Bake on a pizza stone at 500°F for a perfectly golden, crunchy bottom.
🍕 For a Gluten-Free Option – Swap out traditional dough for cauliflower crust or an almond flour base—all the flavor, none of the gluten.
🍕 For a Spicy Kick – Add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for a little heat. If you love spice, try topping your Pickle Pie Pizza with red pepper flakes right before serving.
This is your sign to grab those pickles, roll out some dough and get baking. Because once you try Pickle Pie Pizza, there’s no going back. 🥒🍕
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pickle Pie Pizza
Alright, it’s time to bring your Pickle Pie Pizza dreams to life! Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a crispy, cheesy, tangy masterpiece in no time.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
A perfectly baked Pickle Pie Pizza starts with the right temperature.
- For a standard bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- For extra crispiness: Use a pizza stone at 500°F for that golden, crunchy crust.
If you’re all about that crispy bottom, trust me, the pizza stone makes a difference!
Step 2: Make the Garlic-Dill Sauce
The magic of Pickle Pie Pizza is in the sauce. This creamy, tangy base brings everything together.
In a small bowl, mix:
✅ ½ cup sour cream
✅ ¼ cup mayonnaise
✅ 2 tablespoons pickle juice (yes, straight from the jar!)
✅ ½ teaspoon garlic powder
✅ Salt & pepper to taste
✅ 1 teaspoon dried dill
Give it a good stir until it’s smooth and well combined. Try not to eat it all with a spoon—it’s that good.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
Now, let’s get that Pickle Pie Pizza crust ready!
- Roll out your dough into a 12-inch circle—thin crust works best.
- Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or directly on your pizza stone if you’re using one.
Pro tip: If your dough keeps shrinking back, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before rolling again.
Step 4: Assemble the Pickle Pie Pizza
Now for the fun part—building your Pickle Pie Pizza!
- Spread the garlic-dill sauce evenly over the dough.
- Add a layer of thinly sliced pickles—don’t be shy, but don’t pile them up too much either.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Add a second layer of pickles (because more pickles = more joy).
- Finish with a sprinkle of dried dill for that extra herby kick.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Now, let’s turn up the heat and bake this beauty.
- For a crispy crust: Bake at 500°F for 11-13 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- For a softer bake: Bake at 400°F for 16-20 minutes until everything is beautifully melted.
Let your Pickle Pie Pizza sit for 3 minutes before slicing. I know, the wait is hard, but trust me—it’s worth it.
Grab a slice, take a bite and prepare to fall in love. 🥒🍕
7 Pro Tips to Make the Best Pickle Pie Pizza at Home
If you’re making Pickle Pie Pizza at home, you want it to be crispy, cheesy and packed with tangy pickle flavor—without getting soggy or overpowering. Here are 7 pro tips to make sure your pizza turns out perfect every time!
1️⃣ Use Low-Moisture Mozzarella
Regular fresh mozzarella releases a lot of moisture when melted, which can make your crust soggy. Instead, use low-moisture, full-fat mozzarella to keep your Pickle Pie Pizza crispy and gooey in all the right ways.
2️⃣ Pat Your Pickles Dry
Pickles are loaded with vinegar and brine, which means extra moisture. Lay your sliced pickles on a paper towel and pat them dry before adding them to the pizza. This helps prevent a watery mess while keeping all that delicious tangy flavor.
3️⃣ Double the Pickle Layers (But Spread Evenly!)
If you love pickles (and let’s be real, you do), layer them properly. Add one layer under the cheese and one on top. This creates a balanced flavor and ensures every bite has that pickle punch without overpowering the pizza.
4️⃣ Use Pickle Juice in the Sauce
For extra flavor, don’t waste that pickle juice! Add a splash to your garlic-dill sauce to intensify the tangy, briny taste that makes Pickle Pie Pizza so special.
5️⃣ Bake at High Heat for a Crispy Crust
If you want that perfect crunch, bake your pizza at 500°F on a pizza stone. High heat makes the crust golden and crispy while keeping the toppings bubbly and delicious.
6️⃣ Add a Flavor Boost with Fresh Dill and Garlic Powder
Dried dill is great, but fresh dill sprinkled on top after baking takes this pizza to the next level. A little garlic powder mixed into the cheese also enhances the overall flavor.
7️⃣ Experiment with Toppings (But Keep It Balanced)
Want to customize your Pickle Pie Pizza? Try adding crispy beef bacon, turkey bacon or even a drizzle of spicy mayo. Just be sure not to overload it—balance is key to keeping the pickles the star of the show!
With these 7 pro tips, your Pickle Pie Pizza will turn out crispy, flavorful and absolutely delicious every single time. So grab those pickles, roll out the dough and get baking!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Pickle Pie Pizza
So, you’ve got your Pickle Pie Pizza fresh out of the oven and now it’s time to complete the experience with the perfect dips, sides and drinks. Because let’s be real—every good pizza night deserves some extra flavor-packed add-ons.
Best Dips
You could eat Pickle Pie Pizza on its own, but why would you when you can dip it into something amazing? Here are the best dips to take each bite to the next level:
✅ Ranch – The ultimate pairing! Creamy, herby and just the right amount of tang to complement the pickles.
✅ Garlic Butter – Buttery, garlicky and absolutely perfect for dunking your pizza crust.
✅ Spicy Mayo – Want a little heat? Mix sriracha with mayo for a creamy, spicy kick that balances the tang of the pickles.
Side Dishes That Pair Perfectly with
A great pizza deserves great sides. Here’s what to serve alongside your Pickle Pie Pizza for the ultimate meal:
🥒 Fried Pickles – Because more pickles = more happiness. Crispy, golden and the perfect crunchy side.
🥗 Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, parmesan and croutons balance out the richness of the pizza.
🥖 Garlic Knots – Soft, warm, buttery and loaded with garlic—what’s not to love?
Best Drinks to Pair with
You’re going to need something refreshing to sip on while devouring your Pickle Pie Pizza. Here are some non-alcoholic drinks that work perfectly with those tangy, cheesy flavors:
🍋 Lemonade – The citrusy zing of lemonade balances out the salty, vinegary bite of the pickles.
🥒 Cucumber Lime Cooler – A mix of cucumber, lime and a little bit of honey creates a refreshing and slightly sweet drink that pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the pizza.
🧊 Iced Green Tea – Light, slightly earthy and super refreshing—green tea tones down the acidity of the pickles while keeping the meal light.
🍎 Sparkling Apple Cider – The natural sweetness of apple cider balances out the saltiness and adds a crisp, bubbly finish.
🫙 Pickle Juice Spritzer – If you’re a hardcore pickle fan, mix a splash of pickle juice with club soda and a squeeze of lemon for a fizzy, tart drink that doubles down on the pickle love.
Pick your dip, grab a side and pour yourself a drink—your Pickle Pie Pizza experience is officially next-level! 🥒🍕
How to Make Pickle Pie Pizza a Bit Lighter
If you want to enjoy Pickle Pie Pizza with a few tweaks, here are some easy swaps:
✅ Use a thin crust – Fewer carbs, but still just as crispy and delicious.
✅ Swap regular cheese for part-skim mozzarella – You’ll still get that melty goodness with less fat.
✅ Go easy on the sauce – A little goes a long way for flavor without overloading on calories.
✅ Try a cauliflower crust – A great low-carb option that still delivers crunch.
At the end of the day, Pickle Pie Pizza is all about balance—crispy crust, tangy pickles, and melty cheese. So whether you go all in or make a few swaps, one thing is for sure: it’s 100% worth every bite! 🥒🍕t sauce spread—but let’s be real, Pickle Pie Pizza is worth every bite! 🥒🍕
FAQs
Who invented pickle pizza?
While the exact origins of Pickle Pie Pizza are a bit of a mystery, one of the most famous versions comes from QC Pizza in Mahtomedi, Minnesota. They created the “Kinda Big Dill” pizza, which quickly went viral for its unique combination of pickles, garlic-dill sauce and cheese.
What do Italians call a pizza pie?
In Italy, the word “pizza” is enough—there’s no need to say “pizza pie.” However, in the U.S., particularly in New York and New Jersey, some people call it a “pie” as a slang term. So, while Pickle Pie Pizza sounds like an Italian-American creation, the name is more of a fun twist!
What pizza place makes pickle pizza?
Several places across the U.S. serve Pickle Pie Pizza, but some of the most famous spots include:
✅ QC Pizza (Minnesota) – Home of the viral pickle pizza.
✅ Rhino’s Pizzeria (New York) – Known for its popular dill pickle pizza.
✅ Hungry Howie’s – They have a limited-time dill pickle-flavored pizza.
Where is the pickle pizza at the Minnesota State Fair?
The Minnesota State Fair is famous for serving all kinds of wild foods and yes, they have Pickle Pie Pizza! You can find it at Rick’s Pizza, a popular food stand at the fair known for bringing unique flavors to their pizzas.
Does Hungry Howie’s have a pickle pizza?
Yes! Hungry Howie’s has introduced a dill pickle-flavored pizza, but availability depends on the location and season. Call your local Hungry Howie’s to see if they’re serving it!
Are pickles on pizza a thing?
Absolutely! Pickle Pie Pizza is growing in popularity and people are loving the tangy, cheesy, garlicky combo. It’s not just a trend—it’s a legit flavor explosion that makes total sense.
What comes on a supreme pizza from Hungry Howie’s?
A supreme pizza from Hungry Howie’s typically comes with pepperoni, sausage, green peppers, mushrooms, onions and black olives. It’s a fully loaded classic—but no pickles on this one (yet!).
Does Wendy’s have pickles?
Yes! Wendy’s serves pickles on many of their burgers, including the Big beef Bacon Cheddar Cheeseburger and the Classic Dave’s Single. They use crinkle-cut dill pickles for that extra crunch.
Final Thoughts: Your Turn to Try Pickle Pie Pizza!
Alright, we’ve talked about it, we’ve broken down the ingredients and now it’s time for you to make your very own Pickle Pie Pizza! Whether you’re a lifelong pickle fanatic or just a little curious, this recipe is a must-try. The combination of tangy pickles, creamy garlic-dill sauce, melty cheese and crispy crust is something you have to experience for yourself.
Now, I want to hear from you! Did you try making Pickle Pie Pizza? Did you stick to the recipe or did you put your own twist on it? Drop a comment below and let me know how it turned out!
And hey, don’t keep this delicious secret to yourself—share this recipe with your fellow pickle lovers! Whether it’s your best friend, your pickle-obsessed sibling or that one person who still isn’t sure about pickles on pizza (convert them!), spread the love.
Print
Pickle Pie Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 15 min
- Total Time: 25 min
- Category: Quick Recipes
Description
Tangy, cheesy, and crispy—this Pickle Pie Pizza is the ultimate twist on a classic!
Ingredients
🛒
✅ For the Dough:
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
✅ For the Garlic-Dill Sauce:
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp pickle juice
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried dill
- Salt & pepper to taste
✅ For the Toppings:
- 1 ½ cups low-moisture mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup thinly sliced dill pickles
- 1 tsp dried dill (for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven:
- Set oven to 500°F for a crispy crust.
- If using a pizza stone, heat it up in the oven.
2️⃣ Prepare the Garlic-Dill Sauce:
- Mix sour cream, mayo, pickle juice, garlic powder, and dried dill in a bowl.
- Add salt & pepper to taste.
3️⃣ Roll Out the Dough:
- Roll pizza dough into a 12-inch circle.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Brush the edges with olive oil for a golden crust.
4️⃣ Assemble the Pizza:
- Spread the garlic-dill sauce evenly over the dough.
- Add a layer of pickles, followed by mozzarella & Parmesan.
- Add a second layer of pickles for extra tang.
5️⃣ Bake:
- Bake at 500°F for 11-13 minutes or 400°F for 16-20 minutes until golden.
- Let cool for 3 minutes before slicing.
Notes
🔥 Pro Tips:
✔ Pat pickles dry before using to avoid a soggy crust.
✔ Use a pizza stone for extra crispiness.
✔ Try adding crispy beef bacon or jalapeños for a flavor twist.
Enjoy your Pickle Pie Pizza—crispy, cheesy, and packed with pickle goodness! 🥒🍕
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (out of 8)
- Calories: 320-450 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900-1,200mg
- Fat: 14-22g
- Saturated Fat: 7-12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5-8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35-50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12-18g
- Cholesterol: 30-50mg
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