National Pizza Party Day: Power ranking toppings

Get ready to party, pizza style!

In celebration of National Pizza Party Day, we're here with the power rankings of all the top toppings.

Whether you're throwing an office bash or hanging out with friends, it's time to dive into the saucy, cheesy, and occasionally controversial world of pizza choices.

Now, remember that this list is completely subjective, so if your personal favorite ends up near the bottom, don't despair. Grab a slice of pizza and let its deliciousness work its magic. After all, pizza makes everything better.

Honorable Mentions: Chicken, Spinach, Jalapeños, Banana Peppers. Fancy/Extra Cheese

• Tender, juicy, and versatile, chicken can be seasoned in countless ways to compliment your pizza's flavors. From classic grilled chicken to tangy buffalo or smoky barbecue.

• Embrace your inner Popeye. Delicious and nutritious, spinach enhances the overall taste profile of the pizza and provides a healthy boost of vitamins and minerals.

• Spice it up with jalapeños! Whether sliced or diced, fresh or pickled, these fiery peppers add an exciting kick that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight or despair depending on how you handle the heat.

• And speaking of peppers, banana peppers present a compelling argument for the unlikely union of pizza and pickles. Their zesty flavor creates a harmonious union that adds a delightful tangy touch to each bite.

• Elevate your cheese game with fancy variants. Creamy goat cheese, tangy feta, rich ricotta or decadent blue cheese can enhance your pizza experience. And despite it also being a main ingredient on nearly every pizza, classic cheese pizza and especially extra cheese pizza, cannot be ignored as a childhood (and even adulthood) staple.

10. Anchovies: Ah, the polarizing little fish that divides. For some of us they're like tiny ocean invaders on our beloved pizza, but others wouldn’t have it any other way as they love the scaly salty punch.

9. Pineapple: Brace yourself, because we've entered the controversial territory of pineapple on pizza. Much like anchovies, it is divisive, but we see you, pineapple fans and your tropical tastes are acknowledged. (Fun fact: Canada is actually the originator of pineapple on pizza.)

8. Olives: From a taste of the islands to a taste of the Mediterranean. We know this is the third contentious pick in a row, but they are a pizza stalwart among many. And when they're plonked on a pizza, their tasty brininess can leave your taste buds delighted from their flavor explosion.

7. Tomatoes: Juicy, ripe tomatoes can elevate a pizza from good to great. Whether they're thinly sliced or diced, they add a burst of freshness and natural sweetness to balance out the other flavors. Ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the win.

6. Mushrooms: Mushrooms, you fungi darlings. Some folks love the earthy flavor, while others find them slimy and suspicious. But there is no debate, mushrooms make pizza FUN-gi.

5. Onions: Ah, the pungent power of onions. They can make your eyes water and your breath questionable, but they also bring a depth of flavor to the pizza party. Just be prepared for a little post-pizza onion breath.

4. Bell Peppers: The colors and crunch of bell peppers add visual and tactile contrast to your pizza. Whether you choose green, red, or yellow, these sweet and tangy toppings will make your slice stand out.

3. (Canadian) Bacon: Canadian Bacon, known by its rightful pizza name (don’t you dare call it ham), is an indispensable player in the realms of Meat Lovers and Hawaiian pizzas, solidifying its position as the revered third wheel of pizza meats.

• And let's not forget classic bacon — it's the secret weapon for making everything in life better, including pizza.

2. Sausage: Oh, sausage, the savory sensation that steals the show! Whether it's fiery and intense or mellow and mild, sausage reigns supreme on pizza. Each sausage option offers a unique taste experience, transforming the flavor profile of your pizza no matter the choice.

1. Pepperoni: Drumroll, please! The undisputed champion of pizza toppings, the mighty pepperoni takes the crown. Known for its slightly spicy bite, it has earned its place as the go-to topping for pizza lovers everywhere. It's a classic for a reason!

So, there you have it, folks, the power ranking of pizza toppings. Love it or hate it, remember that pizza is a beautiful creation, and no matter what you put on top, it's all about enjoying that cheesy, saucy goodness.

Now go forth, grab a slice, and let the debate begin!