The biggest food debate is about pineapple on pizza. For some, it’s a match made in heaven- sweet, juicy pineapple playing off the salty richness of cheese and ham. For others, it’s nothing short of blasphemy. But love it or hate it, pineapple pizza has carved out a permanent place in modern food culture, and it’s not going anywhere.
The origins of this polarizing pie date back to the 1960s, when a Greek-Canadian restaurant owner named Sam Panopoulos decided to top a pizza with canned pineapple and ham at his diner in Ontario. His intention wasn’t to spark international controversy, it was just an experiment in flavor. To his surprise, people loved it. The combination of sweet and savory hit a unique chord, and “Hawaiian pizza” was born (ironically, in Canada).
What makes pineapple on pizza so appealing to fans is its balance. The sweetness of the fruit cuts through the fat and salt of melted mozzarella and cured meats, creating contrast in every bite. It brings brightness to what can otherwise be a very rich dish. Add a sprinkle of red chili flakes or a swirl of barbecue sauce, and it becomes even more dynamic.
Of course, the texture is part of the equation too. Warm pineapple becomes soft and slightly caramelized in the oven, adding another layer of complexity that elevates the whole pie. It’s bold, a little quirky, and endlessly customizable.
Despite the jokes and strong opinions, pineapple pizza has become a global phenomenon. You’ll find it everywhere, from American pizzerias to Australian takeout joints and Scandinavian grocery store freezer aisles. And it’s not just the classic ham and pineapple combo anymore. Today’s versions include bacon, jalapeños, chicken, and even feta.
At the end of the day, pizza is personal. Whether you’re a pineapple purist or a no-fruit-on-my-pizza kind of person, the conversation itself is part of what makes pizza culture so much fun. And if you’ve never tried it, you might be surprised at how well it works—one bite might just make you a believer.
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough Store-bought or homemade
- 1/2 cup Tomato sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese Shredded
- 1/2 cup Pineapple Fresh or canned, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup Ham Diced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the pizza dough.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Add the pineapple pieces and diced ham evenly across the pizza.
- Sprinkle dried oregano over the toppings.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Meh, the ham didn’t add anything special. Next time I’ll leave it out.
Nah, the ham is a must! It’s what makes it a real pizza, bro.
I thought the ham really brought out the flavor! Maybe just a different brand or type next time?
So simple and tasty! Is it possible to just buy the ingredients and forget the recipe? Lol.
Why would you skip the recipe? That’s the best part! Just buy the ingredients and try it yourself, you’ll see!
Haha, I mean you could, but then you’d miss out on the fun of cooking! Plus, homemade always tastes better!
This was alright but needed more cheese. Can’t ever go wrong with more cheese!
Totally agree! Cheese makes everything better. Next time, try doubling it!
Perfect recipe! My kids love it! Finally a pizza they eat without complaints.
Yay! So glad to hear your kids loved it! My kids can be picky too, but they devoured this pizza. Thanks for sharing!
This is the best pizza ever! Pineapple on pizza is a game changer! 🍍🍕
Pineapple on pizza? No way! That doesn’t even belong there! 😒
Pineapples are fruits, and fruits shouldn’t go on pizza!!!
This is the best pizza ever! Pineapple belongs on pizza!
I dunno, I thought pizza was only cheese and pepperoni?? This is weird.
Is tomato sauce even worth it? I just used ketchup instead, it was okay but 🤷♂️
Ketchup on pizza?? Not sure that’s a good idea🤔. But I guess everyone has their own taste. Have you tried it with the tomato sauce? It’s way better!
Why bother with all that sauce? I just like cheese and pineapples. Quick and simple!
Really easy to make, but I used chicken instead of ham. I think it tastes better! 😂
Pineapple on pizza? Gross. How can anyone eat that stuff? Stick to pepperoni!
Absolutely delicious! I always add extra pineapple. So good!
I think it would be better without fruit… but my kids loved it! So I guess that’s a win.
Why would you put fruits on pizza? Y’all are weird!
I don’t get it either. Fruits belong in a salad or dessert, not on pizza! Just my opinion.
Pineapple on pizza is amazing! It’s sweet and savory together. You should try it before judging! 🍍🍕
Made it for dinner and everyone ate it all! Will make again for sure!
Yum! Pineapple on pizza is the best! So glad your family loved it!
Simply amazing! I added some jalapeños for a kick, and wow!
Not bad but my kids didn’t like the pineapple. They said it was too sweet!
That’s weird, my kids can’t get enough of it! Have you tried adding more cheese?
Maybe try less pineapple next time? My kids love it with just ham and cheese!
Pizzas r easy to make! I did mine in 10 mins, but I burnt it a lil 😂
I dunno, pineapple on pizza is a bit weird. I prefer pepperoni.
I tried this recipe, and the combination of ham and pineapple is surprisingly good! Who knew?
Yum! Me and my friends are obsessed with pineapple pizza. Do try!
Pineapple pizza forever! 🍍🍕
Easy to make, but who puts pineapple on pizza? I just can’t.
I forgot the oregano and it still turned out great! 😋 Will make again.
That’s awesome! Sometimes mistakes make the best meals! 🍍🍕
Pineapple on pizza? Are you kidding me?! This is not right!