5 Delicious Cocktails That Go With Pizza

Here’s the deal.

Wine (or beer) with pizza is so… expected. And yeah, it’s fiiiine. But predictable.

Cocktails and pizza, though? That’s where things get interesting.

BUT. What flavors even go together? 🤔

And are you only supposed to serve only Italian cocktails with pizza? (Spoiler alert: Nope.)

Long story short? If you want to impress your guests and make their taste buds do a happy dance, pair your pizza with these fun (and impressive) cocktails.

Ready to wow your taste buds? I’ve picked out 5 perfect cocktails for your next pizza night.

Note: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means I might earn a small commission if you love something as much as I do. But I only recommend what I actually like myself.

Embittered Negroni Cocktail

First up, the Embittered Negroni. This isn’t just any Negroni – it’s the cool, edgy cousin with a twist.

Add some grapefruit bitters to the classic gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth mix, and you’ve got a bittersweet concoction with a zesty kick.

Pair it with: Margherita pizza. The Embittered Negroni’s extra bitterness and citrusy notes cut through the creamy mozzarella and complement the tangy tomato sauce.

OR pair it with: Prosciutto and Arugula pizza. The herbal and grapefruit notes highlight the peppery arugula and the salty prosciutto in a way that’s pure magic.

Embittered Negroni Recipe

Dry Manhattan Cocktail

Next on our cocktail adventure: the Dry Manhattan, but with a twist – made with bourbon and Cocchi Americano.

This isn’t your grandpa’s Manhattan, folks. The bourbon brings that rich, smoky sweetness, while the Cocchi Americano adds a touch of citrusy bitterness that’s oh-so-sophisticated.

It’s pizza mate: Now, imagine this beauty alongside a Four Cheese pizza. The bourbon’s caramel notes play perfectly with the melty, gooey cheese, while the Cocchi Americano’s crispness cuts through all that richness.

Or pair it with: And when paired with a Pepperoni pizza? The spiciness of the pepperoni dances with the bourbon, and the Cocchi Americano keeps everything balanced and oh-so-refreshing. This isn’t just a pairing – it’s a flavor explosion.

Dry Manhattan Recipe

Contessa Cocktail

Next in line, meet the Contessa cocktail.

This beauty is like the Negroni’s sophisticated sister who’s spent a year in Italy studying the art of charm. Made with gin, Aperol (a slightly sweeter cousin of Campari), and sweet vermouth, the Contessa brings a delicate balance of bitter and sweet to the table.

Try it with: a white pizza, and you’ve got a match made in culinary heaven. The Contessa’s citrusy and floral notes perfectly complement the creamy richness of the white pizza’s cheese and garlic-infused olive oil base. It’s a symphony of flavors that’s both luxurious and comforting, turning your pizza night into a gourmet affair.

Contessa Cocktail Recipe

Paper Plane Cocktail

Next on the list: the Paper Plane. 🛫

This cocktail blends bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice into a tangy, slightly bitter, and oh-so-smooth drink.

Pizza pairing idea: Now, picture this zesty delight paired with a mushroom pizza.

The earthy, umami goodness of the mushrooms complements the bold flavors of the cocktail, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing contrast. It’s a match made in flavor heaven, making your pizza night a unique and delightful experience.

Paper Plane Cocktail Recipe

Naked and Famous Cocktail

Next up, we’ve got the Mezcal and Aperol Cocktail.

Picture this: smoky mezcal mingling with the bright, slightly bitter taste of Aperol.

It’s a flavor explosion that’s just begging to be paired with something bold.

Pizza pairing: Enter the spicy pepperoni pizza. The smokiness of the mezcal tames the heat, while the Aperol’s citrusy notes add a refreshing zing that keeps you coming back for more. Perfect for those nights when you’re feeling a little adventurous and a lot hungry.

Naked and Famous Cocktail Recipe

Time for Your Pizza Party

So there you have it, folks. From the embittered Negroni’s refreshing twist to the smoky Mezcal and Aperol sensation, these cocktails are your ticket to an unforgettable pizza night.

Sure, you could stick with the usual wine or beer, but where’s the fun in that? Shake things up, impress your guests, and host a pizza night your friends won’t forget.

Ready to become the ultimate host? Grab those shakers, slice up that pizza, and let the cocktail magic begin. Cheers to a night full of flavors and fabulousness!