Italian Pizza vs American Pizza – A Detailed Comparison

American pizza vs Italian pizza may look similar on the surface, but scratch just below to discover a world of subtle differences that make each unique. From the type of crust to the ingredients used in making individual pizzas, there are many distinguishing factors between American and Italian pies. In this post we will explore why these two types of pizza stand out from one another, as well as which might be best for you depending on your taste preferences.

What is Italian pizza?

Italian pizza, also known as Neapolitan-style pizza, is a thin-crust style that originated in Naples. Italian pizzas feature a light, airy texture and are traditionally made with simple ingredients like tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and olive oil. Toppings vary depending on the type of pizza but often include olives, anchovies, mushrooms, onions, peppers etc. The dough is made with high-gluten flour and then hand stretched or tossed to create an ultra-thin crust that crisps up when cooked in a wood-fired oven at temperatures above 800F (425C).

History of Italian Pizza

Italian pizza dates back to the late 18th century when a local baker in Naples, Italy created a flatbread dish that would eventually become the famous Italian pizza. The original Neapolitan pizza was then topped with tomatoes, cheese, olive oil and garlic and became popular throughout Italy. Over time different regional variations of this classic Italian-style pizza emerged, such as the famous Margherita pizza which was named after Queen Margherita of Savoy and featured basil leaves and mozzarella cheese to resemble the colors of the Italian flag.

What is American pizza?

American style pizzas are known for having thicker crusts made from dough that contains more yeast than their Italian counterparts. This helps give them an extra-chewy, flavorful texture. American-style pizzas often include more ingredients than just tomato sauce and cheese, such as pepperoni, sausage, vegetables and other toppings. These pies are typically cooked in a regular oven (not wood-fired) at temperatures between 400F and 500F (200C – 260C).

The History of American Pizza

American pizza is thought to have originated from Italian immigrants who came to the United States in the late 19th century. They brought their recipes with them but adapted them to suit the tastes of their new home country by adding more toppings and experimenting with different flours and cooking methods. By 1935 there were over 600 pizza parlors operating across America and this number has only grown since then.

What are the differences between Italian pizza vs American pizza?

Ingredients

Italian pizzas are usually made with a few simple ingredients such as tomato sauce, cheese, and olive oil. American pizzas on the other hand can have a variety of toppings including pepperoni, sausage, vegetables and other more complex ingredients.

Cooking method

Italian pizza is typically cooked in a wood-fired oven at temperatures above 800F (425C). American-style pizza is cooked in a regular kitchen oven at temperatures ranging from 400F (200C) to 500F (260C).

Texture

Italian pizza has a light, airy texture with a crisp crust. American pizza meanwhile is usually thicker and more chewy due to the higher yeast content of its dough.

Crust

The crust is another key difference between the two types of pizza. Italian-style pizzas are thin and crispy while American-style pizzas tend to be thicker and chewier.

Sauce

Italian pizza is usually made with a simple tomato sauce while American-style pizzas can feature more complex sauces such as BBQ, pesto or Alfredo.

Cheese

Italian pizza typically features mozzarella cheese while American-style pizzas can be made with a variety of cheeses such as cheddar, provolone or feta.

Toppings

Italian pizzas usually feature more classic toppings such as olives, anchovies, mushrooms and peppers. American-style pizzas however can include a wider variety of toppings including pepperoni, sausage and vegetables.

Taste

The last major difference is the taste. Italian pizza has a light, airy texture and subtle flavor while American pizza has a thicker crust that gives it a heartier, more robust flavor.

Eating Style

Italian pizza is usually eaten with a knife and fork while American-style pizza is typically eaten by hand.

Nutrition value

Italian pizzas are usually lower in calories and fat than their American counterparts due to the use of fewer ingredients.

Cost

Italian pizzas tend to cost more than their American counterparts due to the fact that they are cooked at higher temperatures for shorter periods of time and require fewer ingredients

So which type of pizza is best for you? That really depends on your personal preference. If you’re looking for something simple with classic flavors then Italian pizza might be your best bet. However if you like indulging in lots of different toppings and want a thicker crust then American-style could be the way to go.

The impact of commercialization in American and Italian pizza

The rise of commercialization has had a major impact on both American and Italian pizza. Due to the growth of large pizza chains, it’s now much easier to get an American-style pizza delivered to your door than it is to find an authentic Italian pie. As a result, much of the traditional flavors and ingredients that make up these two styles have been lost in many cases.

Why is American pizza more successful than Italian pizza?

American pizza has been more successful than Italian pizza in recent years due to the fact that it’s easier to mass produce and deliver. The thicker crust allows for larger slices and more toppings, which makes it appealing to a wider range of people than traditional Italian-style pies. Additionally, American pizzas tend to be less expensive and many chains offer promotions or specials which can make them even more budget-friendly.

How to make an Italian pizza at home?

Making an Italian-style pizza at home is actually quite simple.

1. Start by making the dough using high-gluten flour, yeast, salt and oil.
2. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic before forming into a ball.
3. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes before rolling out to your desired thickness.
4. Preheat your oven or grill to 500F (260C) before adding the toppings of your choice and baking for 10-15 minutes.

How to make an American pizza at home?

Making an American-style pizza at home is also very simple.

1. Start by making the dough using all-purpose flour, yeast, oil and sugar.
2. Knead the dough until it’s soft and elastic before forming into a ball.
3. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes before rolling out to desired thickness.
4. Preheat your oven or grill to 375F (190C) before adding the toppings of your choice and baking for 10-15 minutes.

Italian pizza vs American pizza : Which is better?

The answer to this question depends on personal preference. Italian pizzas provide a classic flavor profile that can’t be beat, while American pies offer more toppings for an extra-hearty meal. If you’re looking for a light and airy texture then go Italian, but if you want to indulge in something heartier then go with an American-style pizza.

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Popular Italian pizza you should try

• Margherita – This classic Italian pizza is made with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese and basil leaves.
• Marinara – This simple yet flavorful pie features a tomato sauce base topped with garlic, oregano and olive oil.
• Quattro Formaggi – As the name suggests, this pizza is loaded up with four different types of cheese: gorgonzola, tuma, taleggio and pecorino romano.

Popular American pizza you should try

• New York-Style – This classic slices feature a thin crust and are typically served in long rectangular slices.
• Chicago Deep Dish – Famous for its thick crust that’s piled high with ingredients, the Chicago deep dish pizza is an indulgent treat.
• Sicilian – This square slice originated in Sicily and features a thicker crust than traditional Italian pies.

Conclusion: Italian pizza vs American pizza

Now you know the differences between Italian pizza vs American pizza. While Italian and American-style pizzas may look similar on the surface, there are many subtle differences between them which make each unique. From the type of crust to the ingredients used in making individual pizzas, it’s clear that these two types of pizza offer different experiences depending on your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a thin-crust Italian-style or a thicker American-style pizza is up to you.

FAQ: Italian pizza vs American pizza

Is New York pizza different from Italian pizza?

When it comes to pizza crust, Italian-style is characterized by a thin, crispy, and chewy texture, achieved through dough with a high hydration level that lightens the final product. Conversely, New York-style pizza boasts a crust that is thin to medium-thick, with a crispy exterior and chewy interior. Whether you prefer one style over the other, there’s no denying the crucial role crust plays in pizza perfection.

How is authentic Italian pizza different?

Indulge in real Italian pizza featuring a homemade sauce crafted from fresh, hand-peeled tomatoes and a mix of tantalizing herbs. Notably, authentic Italian pizza differs from others by layering the sauce along the crust instead of mixing it with toppings for an unparalleled culinary experience.

Is pizza Americanized Italian food?

Discover the roots of modern pizza, which originated from flatbread dishes in Naples during the 18th or early 19th century. Dating back to AD 997 in Gaeta, Italy, the word “pizza” was gradually adopted in different parts of Central and Southern Italy. Originally a staple consumed in Italy and by those who migrated from the country, pizza has evolved into a world-renowned dish loved by many.

Why is American pizza better than Italian?

Due to the vast range of flavor preferences among Americans, pizzerias are obligated to provide a vast array of toppings and cheeses. Even when ordering a plain pizza, American versions are renowned for being generously loaded with cheese compared to their Italian counterparts. This is primarily due to the fact that in Italy, pizzas are traditionally eaten on-the-go as a whole pie.

Why is Italian pizza so popular?

Pizza’s popularity in America can be largely attributed to the influx of Italian immigrants between 1880 and 1920. Accounting for 4 million of the 20 million immigrants, these individuals brought with them their expertise in pizza-making and unique taste preferences. As a result, pizza became a beloved staple in American cuisine.

Who invented pizza America or Italy?

Discover the roots of pizza in Naples, Italy where it was created as a convenient and delicious meal for hardworking Neapolitans on the move. Although pizza has become a beloved staple today, it took a while to gain widespread acclaim. It wasn’t until the 1940s when Italian immigrants transported their beloved pizza recipes to the United States, that pizza began to capture the hearts of Americans everywhere.

What pizza do Italians prefer?

Margherita pizza reigns supreme not just in Italy, but across the globe. Originating in Naples, this authentic pizza quickly gained popularity and spread to the major cities throughout Italy.

What is America’s most loved pizza?

Pepperoni reigns as the most beloved pizza topping across the United States, and it’s no secret why.

Is Italian pizza healthier than American pizza?

Discover the calorie count of your favourite pizza. A classic Margherita (with tomato sauce, mozzarella, basil, and a dash of olive oil) weighs around 100 grams, giving you 250-300 calories each serving. Typically, a slice is 120 grams, so you’re consuming approximately 275 calories per slice. However, if you prefer American-style pizza, beware! The heavier toppings and extra ingredients make it a calorie bomb – nearly twice the number of calories typically found in a Margherita.

Why is Italian pizza so much better?

Italian pizza is renowned for its exceptional taste. The perfect combination of fresh tomatoes, aromatic spices, and melted cheese on every dough slice creates a distinctive flavor that sets it apart from other pizzas globally. You can enjoy it as an appetizer, main dish or a dessert! Besides, there are plenty of variations to suit every palate.