Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or unwinding with coworkers, pizza is a great food to share with friends and loved ones. Ordering drinks with your slice will elevate the experience further. There are some beers that complement the flavors of different pizzas, balancing out the richness of the cheese and highlighting subtle toppings. To help you make the best combination, here’s a guide to some of the most classic pairings.

What Beer Should I Pair With My Pizza?

1. Spinach Portabella & Stouts

If your group orders a spinach portabella pie, go for a stout. The sweetness and roasted undertones of this beer play well with the earthiness of the mushrooms and spinach, resulting in a complex flavor profile.  

2. Cheese & Wheat Ales

A reliable classic, a cheese pizza is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. These basic slices are best suited to a light wheat beer, where low hop profiles lightly balance the saltiness of the cheese without overpowering it.

3. Pepperoni & IPAs

For a staple like pepperoni, there’s no better choice than an IPA. The bitterness of this beer elevates the spiciness of the meat while cutting through the richness of the cheese. Malty IPAs in particular pair well with the subtle sweetness of a pepperoni pizza. With a higher alcohol content to counteract the grease, IPAs will have you reaching for another slice.

4. Meat Lover’s & Belgian Whites

With a heaping helping of smoky toppings like sausage, pepperoni, ham, and bacon, the savory meat lover’s slice needs something refreshing to balance it out. A Belgian white is an ideal choice for the job. This option carries a light tartness, a bit of sweetness, and a hint of spice to bring out the individual flavors of the meats.

5. Chicken Alfredo & Dark Lagers

Considering it’s already heavy, one wouldn’t typically think to pair beer with a pizza derived from fettuccine Alfredo. However, a dark lager may change your mind. The sweet malt and robust flavors of this option complement the creamy sauce, while its bitter notes keep the combination from becoming too rich. This hearty pairing is filling, satisfying, and all-around tasty.

If you’re craving fresh pizza and beer, bring your friends and family to South Lanes Pizza of La Crosse, WI, for an evening of delicious food and entertainment. This bowling alley offers something for everyone, from a variety of specialty pizzas to mouthwatering build-your-own burgers. They also have a bar to supply you with all the drinks you need for an exciting outing. Browse their full menu online or call (608) 788-0830 to ask about their specials.