15 Unique Techniques to Enrich Your New York-Style Pizza


Disclosure: We may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

New York-style pizza is a classic favorite, but there’s always room for a little twist to make it even better! In this guide, we’ve put together 15 unique ways to amp up your pizza game. From unexpected toppings to creative techniques, you’ll discover simple yet fun ideas that will elevate your pie and impress your friends and family.

First, here is a video of how to make New York-style pizza. If you already know how to make it, skip below to the 15 ways to add flavorful twists…

New York-Style Pizza With Garlic Butter Crust – Brush The Crust With Garlic Butter For A Savory, Crispy, And Aromatic Boost.

A New York-style pizza with a garlic butter crust, topped with mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and olives on a wooden table.

Imagine biting into a slice of New York-style pizza, the crust perfectly crispy and infused with rich garlic butter. This simple twist adds an aromatic kick that takes your pizza experience to the next level.

The image captures a beautiful pizza topped with fresh mozzarella, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and savory olives, all resting on a golden crust. The garlic butter finish glistens, promising a burst of flavor in every bite.

To make this, start with your favorite pizza dough. Once it’s rolled out, brush the edges with melted garlic butter. Bake until golden brown. After it’s out of the oven, a sprinkle of herbs can make it even more inviting.

This method not only enhances the crust’s texture but also pairs wonderfully with your choice of toppings. It’s a simple change that makes a big difference, ensuring your pizza stands out at any gathering.

New York-Style Pizza With Extra Crispy Pepperoni – Broil Pepperoni For A Chewy, Crispy, And Smoky Texture.

A New York-style pizza with crispy pepperoni and fresh basil on a wooden pizza board.

When you think of New York-style pizza, the first thing that might come to mind is that delicious, floppy crust topped with gooey cheese and savory pepperoni. But what if you could take that classic combo to a new level? Imagine biting into crispy, smoky pepperoni that adds an extra dimension to your pizza experience.

The image shows a beautifully crafted New York-style pizza, fresh out of the oven. The pepperoni looks perfectly broiled, with edges curling and crisping up just right. It’s topped with vibrant basil leaves that not only add flavor but also brighten up the presentation.

To achieve that crispy texture, start by preheating your broiler. Lay out your pepperoni slices on a baking sheet and broil them for a few minutes until they’re nice and crispy. Then, add them to your pizza before it finishes baking. This technique brings out a smoky flavor while keeping the pepperoni chewy. Pair this with a classic marinara sauce and fresh mozzarella, and you’ve got a pizza that stands out.

New York-Style Pizza With Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce – Use Arrabbiata Sauce Instead Of Regular Marinara For A Spicy, Tangy, And Bold Twist.

A delicious New York-style pizza topped with spicy arrabbiata sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil on a wooden table.

Switching up the sauce can make a huge difference. Instead of the usual marinara, try spicy arrabbiata sauce for your New York-style pizza. This sauce brings heat and a zesty punch that elevates the entire pizza experience.

The image shows a beautifully crafted pizza topped with creamy mozzarella and fresh basil. The vibrant red color of the arrabbiata sauce is highlighted, making it visually appealing. You can see the slight char on the crust, which adds to its flavor.

To make this pizza, start with pizza dough, spread the arrabbiata sauce generously, and add mozzarella slices. Feel free to sprinkle some crushed red pepper for added spice. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

The spicy arrabbiata sauce transforms your regular pizza night into something bold and exciting. It’s a simple way to surprise your taste buds!

New York-Style Pizza With Fresh Basil Topping – Add Fresh Basil Leaves After Baking For A Herby, Aromatic, And Refreshing Bite.

A freshly baked New York-style pizza topped with fresh basil leaves on a wooden surface.

New York-style pizza is famous for its thin, crispy crust and delicious toppings. A great way to enhance its flavor is by adding fresh basil leaves right after baking. This simple touch brings a burst of herby freshness to your pizza.

In the image, you can see a beautifully baked pizza topped with vibrant basil leaves. The golden crust contrasts nicely with the rich tomato sauce and melted cheese. The bright green basil adds an inviting look, promising a delightful taste.

To incorporate fresh basil, simply add a handful of leaves on top of the pizza as soon as it comes out of the oven. The heat from the pizza will release the aromatic oils in the basil, elevating the overall flavor. It’s a quick way to take your pizza to the next level!

New York-Style Pizza With Smoked Mozzarella – Replace Standard Mozzarella With Smoked For A Rich, Savory, And Umami-Packed Layer.

A pizza topped with smoked mozzarella and fresh basil on a wooden surface

If you want to elevate your New York-style pizza, consider swapping out regular mozzarella for smoked mozzarella. This simple change adds a rich, savory twist that takes the classic flavor to another level.

In the image, you see a beautifully baked pizza topped with round slices of smoked mozzarella. The cheese melts perfectly, creating a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tangy tomato sauce. Fresh basil leaves add a pop of color and enhance that aromatic experience.

To recreate this masterpiece at home, gather ingredients like pizza dough, smoked mozzarella, tomato sauce, and fresh basil. Start by preparing your dough, then spread the tomato sauce evenly. Add the smoked mozzarella slices, and don’t forget to sprinkle some black pepper for that extra kick. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

This pizza is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The umami-rich notes from the smoked cheese pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the tomatoes, making every bite memorable.

New York-Style Pizza With Parmesan-Dusted Crust – Sprinkle Parmesan On The Crust Before Baking For A Salty, Crunchy, And Umami-Rich Finish.

A freshly baked New York-style pizza with basil and tomatoes on a wooden table.

Imagine biting into a slice of New York-style pizza, where each mouthful is enhanced by a crunchy, salty crust. That’s what you get when you sprinkle Parmesan on the crust before baking. This technique adds a delightful umami finish that elevates the entire pizza experience.

In the image, you can see a delicious pizza resting on a wooden table, topped with fresh basil and vibrant tomatoes. The crust looks perfectly golden and inviting, hinting at the crunchy texture waiting for you. The scattered Parmesan on the table shows that this pizza is ready to shine.

To try this at home, you’ll need the following ingredients: pizza dough, your favorite pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, and of course, grated Parmesan cheese. Start by preheating your oven to a high temperature. Roll out your dough and spread your sauce generously. Add the mozzarella and toppings like tomatoes and basil. Finally, sprinkle that Parmesan all around the crust.

Bake the pizza until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. The result? A pizza that not only looks stunning but tastes incredible. Your guests will be impressed with this simple yet impressive twist!

New York-Style Pizza With Hot Honey Drizzle – Drizzle Hot Honey After Baking For A Sweet, Spicy, And Sticky Contrast.

A freshly baked New York-style pizza topped with pepperoni and drizzled with hot honey, served on a wooden table with seasonings.

What’s better than a classic New York-style pizza? One topped with a drizzle of hot honey! This sweet and spicy addition transforms each bite into a flavor explosion. The hot honey contrasts perfectly with the savory toppings and gooey cheese, making it irresistible.

In the image, you can see a pizza fresh out of the oven. The cheese is bubbling and perfectly golden. The pepperoni slices are crisp and inviting. It’s garnished with a touch of herbs, adding a pop of color.

To make this delicious dish, start with classic pizza dough. Roll it out and add your favorite toppings like cheese and pepperoni. Bake it to perfection. Once it’s out of the oven, drizzle the hot honey over the top. The heat from the honey mingles with the melted cheese, creating a sticky and delightful contrast.

Not only does this technique add flavor, but it also elevates your pizza game. It’s an easy way to impress friends and family. The combination of spicy and sweet is sure to leave everyone asking for more!

New York-Style Pizza With Pickled Red Onions – Toss On Pickled Onions For A Sour, Tangy, And Juicy Topping.

A delicious New York-style pizza topped with pickled red onions and fresh basil, served on a wooden table.

Imagine biting into a classic New York-style pizza, the crust perfectly baked, and then you hit a burst of flavor from the pickled red onions. These tangy and juicy toppings add a delightful twist that elevates the whole experience.

The vibrant color of the pickled onions contrasts beautifully with the creamy mozzarella and fresh basil, creating a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. The sourness of the onions cuts through the richness of the cheese, making each bite refreshing.

Adding pickled red onions is simple. Just slice the onions thin, soak them in vinegar, a touch of sugar, and some salt for about an hour. Once they’re ready, scatter them over your pizza right before serving. This step will take your New York-style pizza to a whole new level!

New York-Style Pizza With Extra Thin Dough – Roll The Dough Thinner For An Extra Crispy, Chewy, And Foldable Bite.

A slice of New York-style pizza being held, showcasing a crispy thin crust with mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, and basil.

If you want to elevate your New York-style pizza, try rolling the dough thinner. This technique gives you an extra crispy crust that’s also chewy. The ideal dough should be thin enough to hold the toppings without sagging but sturdy enough to fold. A thinner dough allows for a delightful balance of textures in every bite.

In the image, you can see a fresh slice of pizza being held up. The golden crust, dotted with charred spots, hints at that crispy texture. The melted mozzarella cheese and vibrant tomato sauce are topped with fresh basil leaves, making it not just tasty but visually appealing too. This is the kind of slice that invites you to take a big bite!

To achieve this magic, start with high-quality ingredients. Use flour with a higher protein content for better structure. When preparing the dough, knead it well for elasticity. After letting it rise, roll it out as thin as you can. Bake on a hot stone or steel for that perfect crunch.

Try experimenting with your favorite toppings, but remember: with a thinner crust, less is often more. Keep your toppings light to let that crispy crust shine through.

New York-Style Pizza With Balsamic Glaze Finish – Drizzle Balsamic Reduction For A Sweet, Tangy, And Umami-Enhanced Experience.

A delicious New York-style pizza topped with mozzarella, basil leaves, and drizzled with balsamic reduction, next to a glass of iced drink.

When you think of New York-style pizza, you probably picture a classic slice topped with gooey cheese and a rich tomato sauce. But what if you could kick that up a notch? Adding a balsamic glaze finish gives this beloved pizza a sweet, tangy twist that enhances the overall flavor.

In the image, you see a beautifully crafted pizza featuring glistening dollops of fresh mozzarella, vibrant basil leaves, and a generous drizzle of balsamic reduction. This visual is not just appetizing but also hints at the umami kick that the balsamic adds. It contrasts perfectly with the savory tomato sauce and creamy cheese, making each bite a delightful experience.

To recreate this delicious twist at home, start with your favorite New York-style pizza base. Spread a layer of rich tomato sauce, add slices of fresh mozzarella, and bake until the cheese is bubbling. Once it’s out of the oven, it’s time for the magic touch: drizzle balsamic glaze over the top, and finish with fresh basil leaves. This adds a refreshing element that balances the pizza perfectly.

New York-Style Pizza With Pesto Swirl – Add A Swirl Of Pesto For A Nutty, Herby, And Aromatic Twist.

New York-style pizza topped with pesto swirl, fresh basil, and cashews on a wooden table.

If you’re looking to elevate your classic New York-style pizza, a pesto swirl adds a delightful twist. This pizza features a vibrant green spiral of pesto, creating a nutty and herbaceous flavor that pairs perfectly with the traditional tomato sauce and cheese.

The image showcases a beautifully crafted pizza with a striking pesto design. You can see the fresh basil leaves and cashews sprinkled on top, adding texture and visual appeal. The warm colors of the crust and sauce contrast nicely with the green of the pesto, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

To make this pizza, start with your favorite dough. Roll it out, add a layer of tomato sauce and cheese, and then create the pesto spiral. Bake until golden brown and bubbly, and garnish with fresh basil and cashews before serving. This simple addition can make your pizza stand out at any gathering.

Whether you’re a pizza lover or just looking to try something new, this pesto swirl is sure to impress. It’s an easy way to introduce exciting flavors while keeping the essence of New York-style pizza intact.

New York-Style Pizza With Red Pepper Flakes & Oregano – Add Extra Red Pepper And Oregano For A Spicy, Fragrant, And Classic Upgrade.

A fresh New York-style pizza topped with red peppers and basil on a wooden table.

There’s something special about a slice of New York-style pizza. Add in red pepper flakes and oregano, and it gets even better! This combo brings a spicy kick and fragrant aroma that elevates your pizza experience.

The image shows a beautifully baked pizza topped with vibrant red peppers and fresh green basil leaves, all set against a rustic wooden backdrop. The colors pop and make your mouth water, right? The crust looks perfectly golden and crispy, ready to hold all those delicious flavors.

Using red pepper flakes gives each bite a lovely heat, while oregano adds a classic touch. These ingredients are easy to find and can be sprinkled on generously or lightly, depending on your spice tolerance. Just grab your favorite red pepper flakes and dried oregano, and you’re set!

It’s simple to kick your pizza up a notch. Just sprinkle some flakes and oregano on your slice before digging in or mix them into your sauce for a deeper flavor. Either way, you’ll have a spicy, fragrant upgrade that makes your New York-style pizza shine.

New York-Style Pizza With Burrata Topping – Dollop Fresh Burrata After Baking For A Creamy, Rich, And Indulgent Bite.

A delicious New York-style pizza with burrata topping, fresh basil, and tomato sauce on a wooden table.

Imagine a classic New York-style pizza fresh from the oven, topped with dollops of creamy burrata. This pizza isn’t just any pizza; it’s a delightful twist that takes it to a whole new level. The golden crust is perfectly baked, with a slight crunch on the outside, and a soft, chewy inside.

The vibrant red sauce is spread generously, bursting with tomato flavor. Fresh basil leaves add a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness. And then, there’s the star of the show—burrata. This soft, creamy cheese is added after baking, creating a rich and indulgent experience. Each bite melts in your mouth, combining the tangy sauce, fresh basil, and the luscious burrata.

To make this dish, gather your ingredients: pizza dough, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and burrata. Roll out the dough, add the sauce and cheese, and bake until bubbly. Once it’s ready, take it out of the oven and add the burrata on top. Let it sit for a moment to warm through, and then dig in!

New York-Style Pizza With Extra Olive Oil Drizzle – Drizzle High-Quality Olive Oil For A Buttery, Silky, And Aromatic Finish.

A delicious New York-style pizza topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with olive oil on a wooden table.

Pizza lovers, get ready to give your New York-style pie a delightful twist! Adding a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate your pizza to a whole new level. This simple step enhances the flavors, creating a buttery, silky texture that’s just irresistible.

In the image, you can see a beautifully crafted pizza topped with fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant basil leaves. The rich olive oil glistens on top, promising a burst of flavor in every bite. The crust looks perfectly baked, crispy yet chewy, providing the ideal base for this gourmet treat. A subtle sprinkling of sea salt ties everything together, enhancing those fresh ingredients.

To get started, choose a good olive oil. A finely flavored oil will make a big difference. After baking your pizza, simply drizzle it generously over the top. The oil will soak into the cheese and toppings, creating a luscious finish that’s aromatic and satisfying. So, when you’re ready to serve, don’t forget that olive oil drizzle—it’s a game changer!

New York-Style Pizza With Fire-Roasted Tomatoes – Use Roasted Tomatoes Instead Of Regular Sauce For A Smoky, Tangy, And Juicy Base.

A delicious New York-style pizza topped with fire-roasted tomatoes and fresh basil, sitting on a wooden board.

Switching up your pizza base can really change the game. Using fire-roasted tomatoes instead of regular sauce gives your New York-style pizza a smoky and tangy twist. This method brings out the natural sweetness and flavor of the tomatoes, enhancing every bite.

The image shows a beautifully crafted pizza topped with vibrant, juicy tomatoes that have been roasted to perfection. You can see the steam rising, hinting at the delicious aroma that fills the air. Fresh basil adds a pop of color and aroma, making the dish as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

To make this tasty pizza, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need fire-roasted tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, olive oil, and your favorite pizza dough. Roast the tomatoes until they’re slightly charred for that perfect smoky flavor. Spread them over your dough, add cheese, and top it off with basil. Bake until golden brown, and enjoy a slice filled with amazing flavors.

New York-style pizza