Tangy Fairground Dill Pickle Pizza

Savor the Tangy Delight: Homemade Dill Pickle Pizza with Creamy Garlic Alfredo Sauce (Calgary Stampede Inspired)

Prepare to have your taste buds amazed with this incredible **Dill Pickle Pizza Recipe!** This unique pizza takes the latest carnival food trend to gourmet heights, featuring a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce infused with aromatic dill weed and savory garlic. This delightful combination creates a pizza sauce that perfectly complements the briny crunch of pickles. My own culinary adventure began last year at the iconic Calgary Stampede, where this unexpected dish truly blew me away. What started as a curious taste of a viral sensation quickly became a mission to recreate that unforgettable flavor at home.

one slice of Pickle Pizza being removed from a whole pizza on a pizza pan

While this recipe is especially popular during the vibrant summer months, its comforting yet exciting profile makes it a fantastic dinner, satisfying snack, or even a unique appetizer any time of the year! The ultimate validation? My team of eager taste-testers unanimously agreed that my homemade version perfectly captured the essence of the Pickle Pizza they enjoyed at the Stampede. It’s a testament to how well these seemingly disparate flavors come together, proving that pickles absolutely belong on pizza.

🍒Reader Review

“I tried this pizza for the first time last week and it was fabulous. The recipe is easy to follow and the taste was out of this world. Who knew dill pickles and pizza were a match made in heaven??!! This will definitely be a go-to recipe for me from now on, and I have shared this with so many people who are pickle lovers like me!!”⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Before diving into this pickle-packed adventure, explore more iconic Calgary Stampede-inspired culinary delights! Don’t miss my recipes for Slow Cooker Beef on a Bun, hearty New England Baked Beans, and classic Old Fashioned Pancakes. These are all perfect for bringing the spirit of the fair home.

Truth be told, I wasn’t always a fan of pickles as a pizza topping. My palate usually gravitated towards classic combinations like pepperoni and mushrooms. However, the sheer buzz and curiosity surrounding the Stampede’s pickle pizza compelled me to step out of my culinary comfort zone and take a chance. And oh, what a delicious gamble it was! The flavor combination was far better than I could have ever imagined – a true revelation that lingered in my thoughts long after the last bite. It ignited a passion to bring this unique taste experience to everyone who loves bold flavors and a good pickle.

Terri eating pickle pizza at Calgary Stampede

The Unexpected Allure of Pickle Pizza: A Culinary Revelation

What makes dill pickle pizza such an irresistible sensation that has captivated food enthusiasts across North America? It’s the delightful and surprising interplay of textures and flavors. The tangy, briny crunch of thinly sliced dill pickles cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce and the savory notes of melted cheese. This creates a beautifully balanced and incredibly satisfying taste experience that is both familiar and exciting.

Unlike traditional pizzas, this dish offers a bold departure, providing a refreshing and surprisingly harmonious blend that appeals to adventurous eaters, pickle enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique culinary thrill. It’s more than just a quirky carnival novelty; it’s a legitimate, crave-worthy dish that will challenge your preconceived notions about what belongs on a pizza. The combination of salty, sour, creamy, and savory elements truly creates an umami explosion in every bite, making it an unforgettable meal that you’ll want to recreate again and again.

🥘Ingredient Notes & Our Signature Sauce

When I set out to meticulously recreate the magic of the Stampede’s Pickle Pizza, my taste memory was my most valuable guide. Many recipes I encountered online used a base of mayonnaise and sour cream, but that simply didn’t align with what my taste buds recalled. The authentic version, as I remembered it, had a distinct Alfredo-style white sauce – rich, velvety, and perfectly seasoned. It was with this revelation that I crafted my signature Dill Pickle Pizza, focusing on a robust Alfredo base to capture that true carnival essence and luxurious mouthfeel.

Our Dill Pickle Pizza is masterfully crafted with a base of luxurious, store-bought or homemade Alfredo sauce, generously seasoned with fragrant dried dill weed and freshly minced garlic. This combination yields a rich, creamy, and undeniably savory pizza sauce that provides the perfect canvas for the star of the show: crisp, tangy dill pickles! It truly is carnival food at its absolute finest, delivering a burst of flavor that transports you straight to the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of the Calgary Stampede.

To embark on this delicious journey and create your own unforgettable Dill Pickle Pizza, you will need the following key ingredients:

Ingredients in dill pickle pizza in glass bowls, labelled.

A note on the sauce: It’s crucial to reiterate that I deliberately avoid using ranch dressing, mayonnaise, or sour cream in this recipe. While these ingredients might appear in other pickle pizza variations, they simply do not achieve the authentic, creamy, and umami-rich flavor profile of the Stampede’s original, which is what we aim to replicate here. Stick with the Alfredo for the best results!

  • Pizza Dough: The foundation of any great pizza. For convenience and consistent results, I personally recommend using my easy and quick 15-minute pizza dough. This recipe is adaptable, allowing you to opt for a thin and crispy crust or a thicker, chewier base, depending on your personal preference. High-quality store-bought dough is also a great time-saver.
  • Alfredo Sauce: This ingredient is the creamy heart of our signature garlic dill sauce. While a high-quality store-bought brand like Classico Alfredo sauce works wonderfully for its convenience and rich flavor, feel free to use your favorite brand or even a homemade version for an extra touch of gourmet sophistication.
  • Dill Pickles: The eponymous ingredient and the star of the show! It’s important to opt for regular, good quality dill pickles (avoiding garlic dill pickles, as we’re adding fresh garlic to the sauce ourselves). Slice them thinly into rounds, approximately 1/16 to ⅛ inch thick. This ensures even distribution across the pizza and a pleasant, tender-crisp texture in every bite.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Essential for that perfect melty, gooey, and stretchy pizza experience. I often use light mozzarella for a slightly lighter option without compromising on texture or taste, but any good quality shredded pizza mozzarella will deliver the desired results.
  • Dill Weed (Dried or Fresh) & Minced Garlic: These fresh aromatics are absolutely key to building the signature, complex flavor of our Alfredo sauce. They elevate the creamy base with their pungent and herbaceous notes, tying in beautifully with the pickles to create a harmonious profile.
  • Onion Powder: A subtle yet impactful addition that enhances the overall savory depth of the sauce. It adds a layer of umami without overpowering the vibrant flavors of dill and garlic.

*Refer to the full recipe card below for precise quantities and a complete list of ingredients to ensure you have everything ready for your culinary creation.

📖 Creative Variations & Smart Substitutions

One of the greatest joys of cooking is customization! This Dill Pickle Pizza recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary needs, adjust the flavor profile, or simply use what you have on hand. Here are some fantastic ways to adapt it and make it your own:

  • Pizza Dough Alternatives: The base of your pizza can greatly influence the final texture and even health profile.
    • Lightened Up: For a healthier spin or if you’re watching calories, consider using the Weight Watchers 2-Ingredient Pizza Dough. It’s surprisingly delicious, provides a great texture, and nobody will suspect it’s a lighter option!
    • Homemade Options: If you enjoy the process of baking and have a bread machine, my Bread Machine Pizza Dough offers a wonderfully easy and consistent result, perfect for a chewy, flavorful crust (this is often the dough I use and pictured here!). For a super speedy option, the quick and easy 15-minute homemade pizza dough is ideal, especially if you’re in a hurry or making smaller items like pizza cupcakes.
    • Store-Bought Convenience: No time or desire to make dough from scratch? A quality **store-bought pizza dough** from your local grocery store’s refrigerated section is a perfectly acceptable and convenient alternative that will still yield a delicious pizza.
  • Dill: While dried dill weed is convenient and readily available, fresh dill offers a brighter, more herbaceous, and vibrant flavor. If opting for fresh dill, you’ll need to use approximately double the amount of dried dill to achieve the same intensity and aromatic presence.
  • Alfredo Sauce: If you’re feeling ambitious and prefer a homemade touch, or simply want to elevate the sauce’s freshness, you can certainly whip up your own Alfredo sauce from scratch. I highly recommend using the rich and creamy Alfredo sauce from my Creamy Chicken Fettuccine recipe – it would be absolutely divine here and add an extra layer of gourmet flavor.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the most pungent and authentic flavor profile. However, if you’re in a pinch or prefer a milder garlic taste, you can substitute garlic powder for the minced fresh garlic. As a general guideline, use about ½ to 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of fresh garlic specified.
  • Pickles: Traditional dill pickles are the gold standard for this recipe due to their distinct tangy and savory profile, which beautifully balances the creamy sauce. However, if you’re looking for something different, sweet butter pickles could offer a sweeter contrast, though the overall taste of the pizza will be noticeably altered. Regardless of the type, always ensure your pickles are well-drained beforehand to prevent a soggy crust.
  • Add a Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat and excitement, there are several delicious ways to spice up your dill pickle pizza! You can opt for spicy dill pickles from the get-go, add a dash or two of your favorite hot sauce (like buffalo or sriracha) directly to your creamy garlic dill sauce, or simply sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top before baking or as a vibrant garnish.
  • Protein Boost: While this pizza is fantastic on its own as a vegetarian delight, it also welcomes added proteins for a heartier meal. Crispy Canadian bacon, thinly sliced grilled chicken breast, crumbled cooked bacon bits, or even smoked ham would make excellent and complementary additions.
  • Cheese Varieties: While mozzarella is standard for its excellent melting properties, don’t be afraid to experiment with other cheeses. Consider blending in a small amount of sharp white cheddar or smoked provolone for added depth of flavor. A sprinkle of crumbled feta could also introduce a delightful salty tang, or a touch of Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.

🔪 Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Dill Pickle Pizza

Making this Dill Pickle Pizza is a surprisingly straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious and visually appealing results. Follow these simple, detailed steps to bring this carnival favorite, inspired by the Calgary Stampede, directly to your kitchen and impress everyone with your culinary flair:

Initial Prep Work: Begin by carefully preheating your oven to a precise temperature of 375°F (176°C). Next, lightly and evenly grease a 12-inch pizza pan with non-stick cooking spray. This crucial step ensures a beautifully crispy crust that won’t stick, making for easy removal and serving.

15 minute pizza dough rolled out onto pan
  1. Step 1: Prepare and Place the Pizza Dough. Following the specific instructions for your chosen pizza dough recipe (refer to the comprehensive NOTES section in the recipe card for various excellent options), prepare and roll out the dough to fit your 12-inch pizza pan. Once rolled, carefully transfer the prepared dough onto your lightly greased pizza pan, gently stretching it to ensure it reaches and covers the edges evenly.
Whisk all sauce ingredients together in a bowl.
  1. Step 2: Whisk the Creamy Garlic Dill Sauce. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine all the delightful ingredients for your garlic dill pizza sauce: the rich Alfredo sauce, aromatic dried dill weed, freshly minced garlic, and a touch of onion powder. Whisk them together thoroughly and vigorously until the mixture is perfectly smooth, creamy, and all ingredients are well combined. This ensures an even and consistent distribution of flavor across your pizza.
Sauce spread on pizza dough.
  1. Step 3: Spread the Sauce Generously. Using the back of a spoon or a small spatula, generously spread the prepared creamy garlic dill sauce evenly over the entire surface of the pizza dough, making sure to leave a small, un-sauced border for the crust. For a richer, more indulgent and “saucier” pizza, you can opt to add slightly more sauce, as visually depicted in the accompanying photo. (Tip: If utilizing the recipe card’s scaling feature, simply adjust the servings to 18 instead of 12; this automatically increases ingredients by 1.5x, then simply use your desired amount of sauce).
Pickle slices added to pizza.
  1. Step 4: Arrange the Dill Pickle Slices. Artfully arrange the thinly sliced dill pickles over the sauce, distributing them as evenly as possible across the entire pizza surface. Ensure that the pickles are thoroughly drained beforehand (as detailed in our Expert Tips) to prevent any excess moisture from making your crust soggy. Don’t be shy with the pickles – this is, after all, a dill pickle pizza, and their tangy bite is essential!
Grated cheese sprinkled over pizza,
  1. Step 5: Sprinkle with Plenty of Cheese. Liberally sprinkle your shredded pizza mozzarella (and any other desired cheese varieties, such as a touch of cheddar or parmesan) evenly across the entire surface of the pizza. Ensure it forms a generous layer that beautifully covers both the pickles and the creamy sauce underneath, promising that classic cheesy pull.
Cooked dill pickle pizza on a trivet
  1. Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection, Then Serve. Carefully place the assembled pizza into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes. The pizza is ready when the cheese is beautifully melted, gloriously bubbly, and the bottom of the crust is lightly browned and crisp to your liking. For an extra golden-brown, bubbly, and slightly charred finish on the cheese, you can carefully turn up the oven temperature to 500°F (260°C) and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes. **CRITICAL NOTE: Watch it very closely during broiling, as cheese can burn quickly.** Once cooked, remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to cool for a brief 1-2 minutes before carefully cutting it into 12 generous pieces. Serve hot for the ultimate experience, or enjoy cold leftovers – it’s surprisingly delicious the next day! Garnish with extra grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh dill weed or small pickle slices, if desired, for an appealing presentation.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Pickle Pizza

Achieving a truly exceptional Dill Pickle Pizza involves more than just following the steps; it’s about incorporating a few key techniques and considerations. Here are some expert tips to ensure your homemade version rivals any carnival creation and becomes a new family favorite:

  • Achieve a Crispy Crust: The secret to a perfectly crispy pizza crust lies in proper heat distribution and moisture management. I highly recommend using a perforated pizza pan, which effectively allows air to circulate underneath the dough and moisture to escape, resulting in a beautifully crisp and golden-brown base. Alternatively, a preheated pizza stone or a heavy-duty baking steel works wonders by providing intense, even heat. If you’re new to using a pizza stone, click HERE for a comprehensive guide on how to maximize its effectiveness for pizzeria-quality results.
  • Roll Dough Directly on the Pan: To minimize fuss, prevent the dough from sticking to your countertop, and avoid any potential tearing during transfer, roll your pizza dough directly onto your prepared pizza pan. A silicone pastry/pizza rolling pin (affiliate link) is an excellent tool for this, as its non-stick surface allows for smooth, even rolling without excessive flour.
  • Prevent Dough Sticking to Your Rolling Pin: When actively working with pizza dough, it can sometimes be sticky and prone to adhering to your tools. To combat this, keep your rolling pin and your hands lightly floured throughout the rolling process. However, be cautious not to add too much flour directly into the dough itself, as this can lead to a tough, dry crust.
  • Drain Your Pickles Thoroughly: This is arguably one of the most critical steps for a successful pickle pizza! Excess moisture from the pickles will undoubtedly make your pizza crust soggy and unappetizing. After slicing your dill pickles into rounds, spread them out in a single layer on a paper towel-lined baking sheet or several layers of paper towels. Allow them to sit and drain for at least 15-30 minutes, or gently blot them completely dry with additional paper towels before arranging them on the pizza.
  • Don’t Overload the Toppings: While tempting to pile on an abundance of pickles and cheese, overfilling your pizza can lead to an uneven cook, a doughy center, and a pizza that’s difficult to slice. Aim for an even and generous layer of sauce, pickles, and cheese to ensure everything bakes perfectly, melts consistently, and the flavors are beautifully balanced in every bite.
  • Let it Rest Before Slicing: Once your glorious Dill Pickle Pizza emerges from the hot oven, resist the immediate urge to slice into it. Allowing the pizza to rest on the pan for a brief 2-3 minutes helps the hot cheese set slightly and allows the flavors to meld. This short resting period makes for cleaner, easier cuts and prevents the delicious toppings from sliding off the slices as you serve them.

🌡️Storage & Reheating for Lasting Enjoyment

This Dill Pickle Pizza is incredibly delightful fresh from the oven, but it also makes for fantastic leftovers, allowing you to savor its unique flavors for days to come. Proper storage and reheating techniques are key to maintaining its quality:

For short-term storage, any leftover pickle pizza slices should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When stored correctly, they will remain fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. This method helps to preserve the texture of the crust and keeps the vibrant flavors intact.

For longer-term storage, you can easily bake the pizza as instructed, allow it to cool completely to room temperature, and then freeze it. You can choose to freeze it whole, carefully wrapped, or cut it into individual slices for convenient grab-and-go meals. To prevent freezer burn, wrap each slice (or the whole pizza) tightly in plastic wrap, then enclose it in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe airtight container. Properly frozen, it will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 1-2 months.

Optimal Reheating Tips:

  • Oven or Toaster Oven (Recommended): For the absolute best results, which best recaptures that wonderfully crispy crust and gooey cheese, reheat individual slices or portions in a preheated oven or toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for approximately 8-12 minutes, or until the pizza is thoroughly heated through and the cheese is bubbly and melted once more.
  • Air Fryer (Excellent for Crispiness): An air fryer is also an excellent tool for reheating pizza, especially if you prioritize a perfectly crispy crust. Reheat slices at 325°F (160°C) for a quick 3-5 minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
  • Microwave (Convenient but Softer Crust): While certainly the most convenient option, reheating pizza in a microwave will unfortunately result in a softer, less crispy crust. If using, reheat individual slices for 30-60 seconds, depending on your microwave’s wattage, until warmed through.

The Calgary Stampede is renowned globally not only for its thrilling rodeo events and lively concerts but, perhaps most famously, for its astonishing and ever-evolving array of unique and daring carnival foods. Year after year, I’m captivated by the sheer culinary innovation on display, from truly unexpected combinations like scorpion pizza to decadent red velvet chicken fingers. The Stampede consistently pushes the boundaries of what’s considered “fair food,” making it a culinary playground for adventurous eaters.

photo of crowd at the Calgary Stampede 2019

For several years now, it’s become a personal and eagerly anticipated quest of mine to seek out and try the most talked-about and coveted treats the fair has to offer. Last year’s culinary expedition was particularly successful and memorable, with this phenomenal Dill Pickle Pizza and the delightfully refreshing Butterbeer Ice Cream standing out as definite, resounding hits. Of course, not every year’s culinary adventure is a resounding success – my experience with the Deep Fried Coffee (which you can read all about HERE) was, shall we say, a bit underwhelming and served as a humorous reminder that not all food trends are created equal!

👪 Serving Size & Easy Recipe Adjustments

This Dill Pickle Pizza recipe is perfectly designed to yield one standard 12-inch pizza, which can be conveniently cut into 12 individual slices. This makes it an ideal quantity for a family dinner, a satisfying and unique party appetizer, or even for meal prepping a few distinctive snacks throughout the week. If you’re hosting a larger gathering, preparing for a party, or simply desire more of this undeniably deliciousness, scaling up the recipe is incredibly straightforward and hassle-free.

You can effortlessly double or even triple the recipe by simply clicking on the “Servings” number within the interactive recipe card located below and then selecting your desired number of servings. The ingredient quantities will automatically and accurately adjust to your chosen size, saving you the considerable hassle of manual calculations and ensuring perfect proportions every time. Do remember, however, that for larger batches, you will need to utilize additional pizza pans to accommodate the increased volume of dough and toppings, ensuring even baking and crispiness.

dill pickle pizza on grey plate with whole pizza in background

My family’s enthusiastic endorsement — their declaration that it tasted exactly like the amazing version we tried at the Stampede — sealed the deal and confirmed the success of this recipe. I confidently guarantee that this is hands down the BEST dill pickle pizza recipe you will ever try! It’s a truly unique culinary experience that beautifully combines comforting pizza with a delightful, tangy surprise, perfect for dedicated pickle fanatics and adventurous foodies alike. Prepare to embark on a flavor journey that you won’t soon forget, and perhaps even start a new tradition in your own home!

❔ Frequently Asked Questions (Recipe FAQs)

What kind of pickles work best for pickle pizza?

For an authentic and perfectly balanced flavor profile, regular dill pickles (such as kosher dill or classic sour dill) are by far the most popular and highly recommended choice. Their distinct tangy, savory, and slightly sour notes perfectly complement the creamy Alfredo base without introducing unwanted sweetness. However, if you’re feeling adventurous or prefer a different flavor dimension, you could experiment with bread-and-butter pickles for a sweeter profile or spicy dill pickles to add a delightful kick of heat. Always ensure your pickles are well-drained and thinly sliced for the best texture and to prevent a soggy crust!

Where did pickle pizza originate and why is it so popular?

Pickle pizza has seen a significant surge in popularity at various carnivals, bustling food festivals, and innovative specialty pizzerias across both the U.S. and Canada in recent years. Its exact single origin is somewhat difficult to pinpoint, but it rapidly emerged as a creative and adventurous spin on traditional pizza, cleverly capitalizing on the growing trend of unique and unexpected food combinations. The widespread appeal lies in its novelty and the surprisingly harmonious blend of creamy, savory, and wonderfully tangy flavors, offering a refreshing and exciting departure from more classic pizza toppings. It truly became a viral sensation!

Can I make this Dill Pickle Pizza vegan or gluten-free?

Yes, absolutely! This Dill Pickle Pizza is wonderfully adaptable for various dietary needs with just a few simple substitutions. To make it entirely vegan, you’ll need to replace the dairy mozzarella cheese with your favorite high-quality vegan pizza cheese. Additionally, ensure your Alfredo sauce (or a homemade version) is made with entirely plant-based ingredients. It’s also wise to double-check that your pizza dough does not contain any animal-derived components (many store-bought versions are already vegan), and that your chosen dill pickles are vegan-friendly, as some brines can occasionally contain animal-based ingredients. For a delicious gluten-free version, simply use a certified gluten-free pizza crust or dough, which are widely available at most major grocery stores. The creamy garlic dill sauce and the dill pickle toppings are naturally gluten-free.

Can I prepare this pizza ahead of time?

You can certainly do some prep work in advance to make assembly quicker! The creamy garlic dill Alfredo sauce can be prepared up to 2-3 days ahead of time and stored safely in an airtight container in your refrigerator. Similarly, you can slice and thoroughly drain your pickles in advance, storing them in a sealed container in the fridge. For the dough, if you’re using homemade, many recipes allow you to prepare it a day or two before and keep it refrigerated. However, for the freshest, crispiest, and best-tasting results, it is always recommended to assemble the pizza just before you plan to bake it.

What beverages pair well with Dill Pickle Pizza?

The tangy and savory profile of dill pickle pizza makes it a surprisingly versatile pairing for various beverages! For beer enthusiasts, crisp, lighter lagers, refreshing pilsners, or even a hoppy pale ale can beautifully complement the flavors and cut through the richness of the Alfredo sauce. Wine lovers might enjoy a dry Riesling, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, or a lively sparkling wine, which can highlight the pickles’ acidity and creamy texture. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a hint of lemon or lime, a classic root beer, or even a refreshing lemonade can be surprisingly delightful pairings that balance the unique flavors of this pizza.

dill pickle pizza on grey plate with whole pizza in background

If you’re seeking a fun, unique, and utterly delicious carnival-style pizza recipe that breaks away from the ordinary, then this Dill Pickle Pizza with its creamy garlic Alfredo sauce is an absolute must-try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a culinary adventure that every pickle lover will undoubtedly adore. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this surprisingly harmonious and incredibly tasty creation that proves unconventional can be truly extraordinary!

📋 Explore More Delicious Pizza Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed the unique and delightful twist of our Dill Pickle Pizza, you’ll love exploring other creative and comforting pizza recipes from my culinary collection. Expand your pizza repertoire and discover new favorites with these fantastic ideas:

  • Perogy Pizza: A Comfort Food Mashup
  • Camping Pizza (with Grilled Toppings): Perfect for Outdoors
  • Easy Pizza Cupcakes Recipe: Fun for Everyone
  • Healthy Big Mac Pizza: Guilt-Free Indulgence

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pickle pizza on pan being removed with pizza lifter
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🥒Dill Pickle Pizza Recipe (Carnival Style)

Experience the viral sensation! This Dill Pickle Pizza features a luscious Alfredo sauce, fragrant dill weed, and savory garlic, creating a rich, creamy base that’s truly a match made in heaven for tangy pickles. It’s the ultimate carnival food re-imagined for your home kitchen, tasting just like the famous Pickle Pizza from the Calgary Stampede.

5 from 5 votes

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Course: Dinner, Lunch, Snack, Appetizer
Cuisine: American, Italian, Canadian
Special Diet: Vegetarian (can be Vegan/GF with subs)
Servings: 12 pieces
Calories: 206kcal
Author: Terri Gilson
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
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Ingredients

Dough

  • 1 lb (12 inch) pizza dough * Use your favorite homemade or store-bought dough. My 15-minute pizza dough is a great option.

Creamy Garlic Dill Pizza Sauce

  • 1 cup Alfredo sauce * A quality store-bought brand like Classico works perfectly, or use homemade.
  • 1 tablespoon dried dill weed * If using fresh dill, use 1 ½ – 2 tablespoons for a stronger flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Toppings

  • 6 whole dill pickles sliced thinly into rounds (approx. 1/16-1/8 inch thick) and thoroughly drained.
  • 3 ½ cups pizza mozzarella * shredded, I often use light mozzarella.

Optional Garnish

  • additional dill pickles or dill weed, for serving
  • grated parmesan cheese, for serving
US Customary – Metric

Instructions

Prepare Dough & Sauce

  • Prepare your pizza dough according to your chosen recipe’s instructions (refer to NOTES for recommended dough recipes). Roll out the dough and place it on your lightly greased 12-inch pizza pan.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the Alfredo sauce, dill weed, minced garlic, and onion powder until well combined. This creates your creamy garlic dill pizza sauce.

Assemble & Bake

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (176°C) and ensure your pizza pan is lightly greased.
  • Spread the prepared creamy garlic dill sauce evenly over the pizza dough. Arrange the thinly sliced and thoroughly drained dill pickles over the sauce, then sprinkle the shredded pizza mozzarella generously over the top.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the pizza crust is lightly golden brown.
  • For an extra crispy crust and golden-brown cheese, increase the oven temperature to 500°F (260°C) and broil for 2-3 minutes. **Watch carefully to prevent burning!** Remove from oven, let cool for 1-2 minutes, then slice into 12 pieces. Serve hot or enjoy cold leftovers.

Garnish & Serve

  • Garnish with additional grated parmesan cheese and fresh dill weed or small pickle slices, as desired, before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1piece | Calories: 206kcal (10%) | Carbohydrates: 19g (6%) | Protein: 12g (24%) | Fat: 10g (15%) | Saturated Fat: 5g (31%) | Cholesterol: 35mg (12%) | Sodium: 787mg (34%) | Potassium: 58mg (2%) | Fiber: 2g (8%) | Sugar: 1g (1%) | Vitamin A: 218IU (4%) | Vitamin C: 1mg (1%) | Calcium: 272mg (27%) | Iron: 1mg (6%)
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