Best Pickles for Pizza: Dill vs. Bread & Butter

When it comes to pickle pizza, the toppings aren’t just a gimmick—they’re the heart of the flavor. The choice of pickle can completely transform your pie, shifting it from sharp and tangy to sweet and mellow, or even bold and garlicky. Whether you’re making a classic dill pickle pizza or experimenting with bread & butter slices, it’s worth knowing what each variety brings to the table.

For the full recipe, see our Dill Pickle Pizza Recipe — The Viral TikTok Trend You Have to Try. But first, let’s dive into which pickles belong on your crust.

Dill Pickles – Sharp, Classic

Dill pickles are the undisputed classic choice for pizza. Their salty, briny flavor cuts through the richness of cheese and white sauce perfectly.

• Why it works: The acidity balances mozzarella’s creaminess, while the dill herb adds brightness.
• Best type: Kosher dill chips or thinly sliced dill spears.
• Pro tip: Pat slices dry with a paper towel before baking to avoid a soggy crust.

If you’re making your first pickle pizza, start with dill—it’s the flavor combination that made the trend go viral.

Bread & Butter Pickles – Sweet & Tangy

Bread & butter pickles bring a sweeter, tangier profile that creates a unique sweet-salty combo.

• Why it works: The sugar in bread & butter pickles pairs surprisingly well with savory cheese.
• Best for: Those who find dill pickles too sharp or sour.
• Drawback: Too many slices can overwhelm the pizza with sweetness.

Think of this version like a sweet-and-savory flatbread. If you love honey-drizzled cheese boards, you’ll enjoy bread and butter pickles on pizza.

Garlic & Spicy Pickles – Bold Flavors

Looking for an extra kick? Garlic pickles and spicy pickles turn a novelty recipe into something bolder.

• Garlic pickles: Infused with garlicky brine, they bring depth and punch to every bite.
• Spicy dill pickles: Add chili heat that pairs perfectly with ranch or crème fraîche base.
• Best for: Adventurous eaters or fans of strong flavors.

These versions shine on smaller pizzas or party snacks where you want maximum impact in just a few bites.

Which to Choose for White Sauce Pickle Pizza?

If you’re making a white sauce pickle pizza (ranch, garlic cream, or crème fraîche base), here’s how to match your pickles:

• Dill pickles: Best all-around choice. Sharp, balanced, and craveable.
• Bread & butter pickles: Works if you want a sweeter twist.
• Garlic & spicy pickles: Perfect for adding bold layers on top of the creamy sauce.

Ultimately, the best pickles for pizza depend on your flavor preferences. Dill is safe and satisfying, bread & butter is playful, and garlic/spicy is for those who like to experiment.

Final Bite

Pickle pizza might have started as a TikTok curiosity, but your pickle choice is what makes it memorable. Whether you go for classic dill, sweet bread & butter, or garlicky spice, each brings a new dimension to this viral pie.

Serve your pizza with a dip like our Spinach Ranch Dip for a full flavor-packed experience, and don’t forget to explore the full pickle pizza recipe here.

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