From hot sauce to hickory-smoked bacon, these toppings add a burst of flavor and excitement to your favorite slice of pizza. Get ready to discover the perfect harmony of pizza toppings that start with the letter “H”.
1. Ham
Ham is a popular pizza topping enjoyed in various parts of the world. It is made from pork meat that has been preserved through curing, smoking, or both. The origin of ham as a pizza topping can be traced back to Italy, where it is commonly used in traditional Italian pizzas. In Italian cuisine, different types of ham are used, such as prosciutto, which is a dry-cured ham, and cooked ham, known as cotto. These varieties of ham bring distinct flavors and textures to the pizza, adding a savory and slightly salty taste. Ham is a versatile topping that pairs well with other ingredients like cheese, vegetables, and even fruits, creating delicious flavor combinations.
2. Honey
Honey is a less common but intriguing pizza topping that brings a unique twist to the traditional savory flavors. Although it may not be as widely popular as other toppings, it is occasionally used to add a touch of sweetness and enhance the overall taste of the pizza. The use of honey as a pizza topping is not limited to any specific region or cuisine, but rather it is an innovative and experimental choice embraced by some pizza enthusiasts. The drizzle of honey on top of the pizza can create a delightful contrast of flavors, combining the richness of cheese and other ingredients with the natural sweetness of the honey.
3. Hot Sauce
Hot sauce is a popular pizza topping that adds a fiery kick to the pizza. It is made from various chili peppers, vinegar, and spices, creating a spicy and flavorful condiment. The use of hot sauce as a pizza topping can be found in different parts of the world, but it is particularly favored in North America and some Latin American countries. The type and intensity of the hot sauce can vary, ranging from mild to extremely hot, allowing individuals to choose their preferred level of spiciness. Hot sauce complements ingredients like cheese, meat, and vegetables, giving the pizza an extra layer of heat and flavor for those who enjoy a spicy culinary experience.
4. Horseradish
Horseradish is a unique and pungent pizza topping that adds a distinct flavor to the dish. Originating from Eastern Europe, specifically the regions of Russia and Ukraine, horseradish has been used for centuries in traditional cuisines. Its strong and spicy taste comes from the grated root of the horseradish plant. When used as a pizza topping, horseradish adds a zesty and tangy kick that can cut through the richness of other ingredients. While it may not be as widely popular as traditional pizza toppings, horseradish can be found on specialty pizzas or enjoyed by those who appreciate its bold flavor.
5. Havarti Cheese
Havarti cheese is a creamy and semi-soft cheese that originated in Denmark. Named after the Danish Havarthi family who first created it in the 19th century, Havarti has gained popularity worldwide and is commonly used as a pizza topping. Known for its smooth and buttery texture, Havarti cheese melts beautifully when heated, making it an excellent choice for pizzas. It has a mild and slightly tangy flavor that pairs well with a variety of other ingredients. Havarti cheese is popular in Denmark, but it can also be found on pizzas in other countries, particularly in North America and Europe, where it adds a rich and velvety element to the pizza.
6. Hummus
Hummus, a popular Middle Eastern dip made from mashed chickpeas, is an unconventional but delicious pizza topping choice. Hummus as a pizza topping reflects the fusion of different culinary traditions. It brings a creamy and tangy element to the pizza, enhancing its texture and flavor profile. It is particularly enjoyed in Mediterranean-inspired pizzas, where it complements ingredients like olives, feta cheese, roasted vegetables, and even grilled meats. Hummus adds a unique twist to the traditional pizza experience, infusing it with the distinctive taste of the Middle East and offering a delightful alternative for those seeking a vegetarian or plant-based option.
7. Hickory-Smoked Bacon
Hickory-smoked bacon is a popular and indulgent pizza topping that adds a savory and smoky flavor to the dish. Originating from North America, specifically the southern regions where hickory wood is commonly used for smoking meats, hickory-smoked bacon has become a beloved choice for pizza enthusiasts worldwide. The bacon is prepared by smoking thin slices of pork belly over hickory wood, resulting in a distinctive smoky taste and a slightly crispy texture. When placed on a pizza, hickory-smoked bacon releases its rich flavors, blending with other ingredients like cheese, tomatoes, and herbs. Its widespread popularity makes it a common topping choice in many pizzerias across the United States and other countries.
8. Hollandaise Sauce
Hollandaise sauce, known for its creamy and buttery texture, is a luxurious pizza topping that adds richness and depth of flavor. The sauce originated in France and is traditionally used in classic French cuisine, particularly as a topping for dishes like eggs Benedict. However, its versatility has led to its adaptation as a pizza topping in certain culinary circles. Hollandaise sauce is made from a combination of egg yolks, melted butter, and lemon juice, creating a smooth and velvety consistency. When drizzled over a pizza, it adds a luscious and tangy element, elevating the overall taste experience. While not as widely popular as traditional pizza sauces, the use of Hollandaise sauce on pizzas can be found in gourmet or experimental pizza establishments.
9. Herbed Goat Cheese
Herbed goat cheese is a delightful and tangy pizza topping that brings a unique twist to the dish. The cheese is made from goat’s milk and has a creamy and slightly acidic taste. Herbed goat cheese is infused with a blend of herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, and basil, which adds an aromatic and savory dimension to its flavor. When crumbled over a pizza, herbed goat cheese melts beautifully and distributes its distinct taste throughout the pie. It is a popular choice in Mediterranean-inspired pizzas and can be found in various countries where goat cheese is celebrated, including France, Italy, and the United States.
10. Hot Italian Sausage
Hot Italian sausage is a flavorful and spicy pizza topping that originated in Italy. It is made from a combination of ground pork, spices, and herbs like fennel seeds, paprika, and garlic. The sausage mixture is typically stuffed into casings and then cooked or cured. Hot Italian sausage brings a bold and zesty kick to pizzas, infusing them with its distinctive taste. Its popularity extends beyond Italy and can be found on pizzas in different parts of the world, particularly in North America. The spicy nature of the sausage adds a fiery element to the pizza, creating a mouthwatering experience for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their culinary adventures.
11. Honey Mustard
Honey mustard is a sweet and tangy pizza topping that combines the flavors of honey and mustard. It is commonly associated with American cuisine and is enjoyed in various parts of the world. Honey mustard is made by blending honey and mustard together, resulting in a balanced combination of sweetness and tanginess. When used on a pizza, it adds a unique and delightful flavor profile, complementing ingredients like chicken, bacon, or vegetables. Honey mustard is particularly popular in the United States and can be found as a dipping sauce or drizzled on pizzas in certain pizzerias.
12. Halloumi Cheese
Halloumi cheese is a unique and versatile pizza topping that originated in Cyprus. It is a semi-hard, unripened cheese made from a mixture of sheep’s and goat’s milk, or sometimes cow’s milk. Halloumi cheese has a distinctive texture that allows it to be grilled or fried without melting completely. When used as a pizza topping, halloumi cheese becomes golden and crispy on the outside while maintaining a slightly chewy interior. Its mild and salty taste adds a delicious depth of flavor to the pizza. Halloumi cheese is popular in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines and can be found on pizzas in those regions as well as in other parts of the world where it has gained popularity.
13. Hungarian Salami
Hungarian salami, also known as Hungarian dry sausage, is a flavorful pizza topping with its roots in Hungary. This type of salami is made from a mixture of pork, beef, and spices, including paprika, garlic, and various herbs. It is then air-dried, allowing it to develop its distinct flavor and texture. Hungarian salami adds a rich and savory taste to pizzas, and its spiciness can vary depending on the specific recipe. This pizza topping is particularly popular in Hungary and other European countries, where it is celebrated for its high-quality and traditional production methods. Its intense flavor makes it a favorite choice among salami enthusiasts and those who appreciate the distinctive taste of Hungarian cuisine.
14. Harissa
Harissa sauce is a fiery and aromatic pizza topping that originates from North Africa, specifically Tunisia. It is a spicy chili paste made from a combination of roasted red peppers, hot chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, and various spices, such as cumin and coriander. Harissa sauce adds a bold and complex flavor to pizzas, with a balance of heat and earthy undertones. Its vibrant red color and intense spiciness create a tantalizing taste experience. Harissa sauce is widely popular in North African and Middle Eastern cuisines, and it has gained recognition worldwide as a flavorful and exotic pizza topping choice.
15. Heirloom Tomatoes
Heirloom tomatoes are a vibrant and flavorful pizza topping that originated from ancient tomato varieties that have been preserved and passed down through generations. These tomatoes come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, ranging from deep red to yellow, green, or even purple. Heirloom tomatoes have a rich and complex taste, often described as more robust and sweet compared to modern hybrid tomatoes. They add a burst of freshness and juiciness to pizzas, making them a popular choice for those seeking a vibrant and flavorful twist. While heirloom tomatoes can be found in various parts of the world, they are particularly celebrated in Mediterranean and American cuisines, where their unique characteristics are valued and incorporated into traditional and innovative pizza recipes.
16. Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts are a crunchy and nutty pizza topping that adds texture and richness to the dish. These nuts are grown on hazel trees and have been enjoyed for centuries. Hazelnuts have a distinct flavor profile, with a combination of sweetness and earthiness. When added to pizzas, they provide a satisfying crunch and a delightful nutty taste. Hazelnuts are particularly popular in Italian cuisine, where they are used in both sweet and savory dishes. They can be found on pizzas in Italy and other countries where the unique flavor of hazelnuts is cherished.
17. Hearts of Palm
Hearts of palm are a unique and delicate pizza topping that comes from the inner core of certain palm tree species. Harvested from the growing point of the tree, hearts of palm have a tender and creamy texture, resembling the texture of artichoke hearts. Hearts of palm is enjoyed in various parts of the world, including South and Central America, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean. It has a subtle and slightly nutty flavor that adds a refreshing and crisp element to pizzas. They can be sliced or chopped and used as a topping to bring a distinct taste and texture to the overall pizza experience.
18. Honeycomb
Honeycomb is a unique and sweet pizza topping that originates from the natural honeycomb structure created by bees. Bees produce honeycomb by building hexagonal wax cells to store their honey. While honeycomb is primarily enjoyed as a standalone treat or used as a sweetener, it can also be used as a pizza topping to add a delightful touch of sweetness. Honeycomb is typically placed on the pizza after it is baked, allowing the residual heat to slightly soften and release its honey flavors. It adds a unique texture and a burst of natural sweetness to the pizza. While not as common as traditional pizza toppings, honeycomb can be found as a specialty ingredient in certain gourmet or experimental pizza creations.
19. Hoisin Sauce
Hoisin sauce is a savory and slightly sweet pizza topping that originated in Chinese cuisine. It is a thick and dark sauce made from a combination of soybeans, garlic, vinegar, sugar, and various spices. Hoisin sauce is known for its rich and complex flavor profile, featuring a balance of sweetness, saltiness, and umami. When used as a pizza topping, hoisin sauce adds a distinct Asian-inspired twist to the dish. It pairs well with ingredients such as roasted duck, pork, or chicken, and can be found on pizzas that draw influence from Chinese or fusion cuisines. While it may not be as widely popular as traditional pizza sauces, hoisin sauce offers a unique flavor experience for those seeking a bold and unconventional pizza topping.
20. Haggis
Haggis is a traditional Scottish pizza topping that holds a special place in Scottish cuisine and culture. It is a dish made from a mixture of sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, combined with onions, spices, oatmeal, and suet, all encased in a sheep’s stomach. The haggis is cooked and then crumbled or sliced onto the pizza as a topping. Haggis has a rich and robust flavor, often described as savory and slightly gamey. It is traditionally enjoyed in Scotland, particularly during festive occasions such as Burns Night. While haggis as a pizza topping may be more niche and less commonly found outside of Scotland, it represents the cultural heritage and culinary traditions of the country.
21. Hungarian Wax Peppers
Hungarian wax peppers are a mildly spicy and tangy pizza topping that originated in Hungary. These peppers are known for their vibrant yellow color and elongated shape. They have a medium level of heat, similar to jalapeños, and add a zesty kick to pizzas. Hungarian wax peppers are often used as a topping for their flavor rather than their heat, as they provide a pleasant tanginess without overpowering the other ingredients. They can be sliced or diced and scattered over the pizza to provide bursts of flavor. While Hungarian wax peppers are popular in Hungary, they can also be found in other countries where spicy and tangy flavors are appreciated in pizza toppings.
22. Hot Honey
Hot honey is a spicy and sweet pizza topping that has gained popularity in recent years. Hot honey is often associated with Southern cuisine in the United States. It is made by infusing honey with chili peppers or chili pepper flakes, creating a harmonious blend of heat and sweetness. When drizzled over a pizza, hot honey adds a delightful kick that enhances the overall flavor profile. The combination of the sweet honey and spicy chili creates a tantalizing taste experience. Hot honey is commonly used as a pizza topping in various regions, particularly in the United States, where it has become a favorite choice for those who enjoy a touch of heat and sweetness on their pizzas.
23. Hot Dog Slices
Hot dog slices, also known as frankfurter slices, are a unique and unconventional pizza topping that can be found in certain regions and pizzerias. Originating from the United States, hot dog slices are made from cooked and sliced hot dogs. They are typically placed on top of the pizza, and when baked, the slices become slightly crispy and add a savory and meaty flavor to the dish. Hot dog slices are often combined with other classic pizza toppings such as cheese, tomato sauce, and onions. While not as widely popular as traditional pizza toppings, hot dog slices can be found in some American-style pizzerias or in regions where the combination of hot dogs and pizza is enjoyed.
24. Hungarian Paprika
Hungarian paprika is a flavorful and vibrant pizza topping that originated in Hungary. Paprika is made from dried and ground peppers, specifically the Capsicum annuum variety. Hungarian paprika is known for its distinctive taste, ranging from mild and sweet to hot and spicy, depending on the type of peppers used and the processing method. It adds a beautiful red color and a rich, smoky flavor to pizzas. Hungarian paprika is highly valued in Hungarian cuisine and is often used in traditional dishes such as goulash. It can also be found in pizzas worldwide, particularly in regions where the bold and aromatic flavors of Hungarian cuisine are appreciated.
25. Herring
Herring is a traditional and flavorful pizza topping that originates from Scandinavian and Northern European cuisines. Herring is a type of fish known for its rich and distinctive taste. It can be prepared in various ways, including pickling, smoking, or marinating. When used as a pizza topping, herring is typically filleted, deboned, and then added to the pizza. The fish provides a savory and slightly salty flavor that pairs well with other ingredients like onions, capers, or dill. Herring is particularly popular in countries such as Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, where it is commonly enjoyed as a pizza topping or as a part of traditional dishes. In these regions, herring pizzas can be found in local pizzerias or as part of special seasonal menus.
26. Herb-Roasted Chicken
Herb-roasted chicken is a flavorful and protein-packed pizza topping that brings a savory twist to the dish. The origin of using roasted chicken as a pizza topping is not specific to any particular region, as it is a versatile ingredient enjoyed in various cuisines worldwide. The chicken is typically marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, garlic, and paprika, before being roasted to perfection. When used on a pizza, herb-roasted chicken adds a juicy and aromatic element, infusing the pizza with its delicious flavors. It pairs well with a wide range of other toppings, including vegetables, cheeses, and sauces, creating a satisfying and hearty pizza experience.
