13 Irresistible Toppings to Pair with Ham on Pizza

Ham is a classic pizza topping that brings salty, smoky flavor to every bite. But ham can get boring fast without the right complementary ingredients Luckily, there are tons of delicious toppings you can add to ham pizza to take it to the next level.

Whether you prefer sweet, spicy, or savory flavors, there are endless possibilities for customizing ham pizza. From pineapple and bacon to pesto and jalapeños, the options are limitless.

Here are 13 of the tastiest toppings to pair with ham on your next homemade or gourmet pizzeria pizza

1. Pineapple

The tropical fruit pairs perfectly with the saltiness of ham. The sweet juice also prevents the ham from tasting overly salty. Pineapple on pizza used to be controversial but it’s now become a beloved pizza combo. For best results use fresh pineapple chunks rather than canned.

2. Bacon

Everything is better with bacon, including ham pizza! The smokiness of crispy bacon bits contrasts deliciously with the savory ham. Chopped bacon sprinkled over ham pizza adds crunch and tons of meaty flavor.

3. Jalapeños

Spice-lovers will enjoy the kick that fresh jalapeño slices add to ham pizza. The heat and subtle sweetness of the peppers cut through the richness of the ham beautifully. For less heat, try banana peppers instead.

4. Mushrooms

Sautéed mushrooms lend an earthy, umami flavor to ham pizza. They also provide a nice textural contrast to the softness of the ham. White or brown mushrooms both pair well, but you can also try more exotic varieties like shiitake.

5. Caramelized Onions

Sweet, browned onions are a perfect match for salty ham. Scatter some crispy caramelized onions over your ham pizza for the ultimate flavor and texture combo. They add a pleasantly sweet note that enhances the ham.

6. Bell Peppers

For a fresh, sweet crunch, top ham pizza with julienned bell peppers. Red, yellow, orange and green peppers all pair well. The subtle sweetness complements ham, while the crisp texture balances the softness of the other ingredients.

7. Spinach

Ham pairs surprisingly well with spinach on pizza. The slight bitterness of the greens offsets the ham’s saltiness. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach before topping your pizza to prevent sogginess.

8. Artichokes

Marinated artichoke hearts lend unique flavor to ham pizza with their subtle bitterness. The firm texture also balances the softness of the ham. Drain jarred or canned artichokes well before using.

9. Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Intensely flavored sun-dried tomatoes pack a sweet, acidic punch that livens up ham pizza. Their chewy texture contrasts nicely with silky ham as well. For best results, use sun-dried tomatoes packed in olive oil rather than plain dried ones.

10. Pesto

Herby pesto sauce adds tons of bright flavor when drizzled over ham pizza or used in place of regular sauce. The basil, garlic, and Parmesan notes pair perfectly with savory ham. Try using pesto swirled with tomato sauce for a twist.

11. Barbecue Sauce

Smoky, sweet barbecue sauce takes ham pizza to new heights of finger-lickin’ deliciousness. The tangy tomato-based sauce also cuts through the saltiness of the ham. Try pairing BBQ ham pizza with pineapple or red onions.

12. Goat Cheese

Creamy, tart goat cheese crumbles pair divinely with ham’s richness. The cool, soft cheese provides excellent textural contrast on ham pizza. For more flavor, try goat cheese mixed with herbs or garlic.

13. Olives

Briny black or green olives make a classic pizza pairing with savory ham. Their mild, salty flavor accentuates the ham while also providing texture. Slice or chop the olives before scattering them over your ham pizza.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to topping ham pizza with complementary ingredients! Take your pick from sweet fruits like pineapple, spicy veggies like jalapeños, or rich cheeses like goat cheese. You can also mix and match multiple toppings for an explosion of flavors.

Ham pizza makes a deeply satisfying meal or appetizer. With the right toppings, it becomes an unforgettable dining experience. So get creative with your ham pizza garnishes! The tasty topping combinations are limited only by your imagination.