Italian food is a favorite across the U.S., so National Pizza Day on February 9 gets plenty of love. YouGov polled more than 6,000 adults to see which toppings win—or bomb—on American pies. Pepperoni sits firmly at No. 1, while a few veggies and fish have people tapping “no thanks.” The poll also shows a near-split on crust styles, with regions picking favorites differently.
Pepperoni Still King: 64% Approval
In a poll of more than 6,000 U.S. adults, pepperoni leads the pack. About two-thirds, 64%, say they like it on pizza. It’s America’s clear favorite topping. It’s spicy, salty fat renders and crisps in a hot oven, concentrating umami.
Sausage Holds Strong At 56%
More than half of Americans give sausage a thumbs-up. With 56% approval, it’s a reliable second choice. Hearty and familiar wins again. Browning releases fennel and garlic aromas and adds juicy, savory bites.
Mushrooms Win Over 54%
Mushrooms land in third place with 54% liking them. That’s a solid majority for an earthy, veggie pick. They’re firmly in the “popular” column. They bring a tender chew and natural umami that feels meaty without meat.
Extra Cheese Still Works: 52%
A simple upgrade pays off. Extra cheese gets liked by 52% of respondents. Sometimes more of the good stuff is exactly right. More cheese adds creaminess, stretch, and salty richness in every bite.
Onions Earn 48% Likes
Onions are a near-majority favorite. Forty-eight percent say yes to that sweet-savory bite. Not universal, but notably popular. Oven heat softens sharpness into sweetness while a light crunch adds contrast.
Anchovies Lead Dislikes At 61%
When it comes to “nope,” anchovies top the list. A full 61% say they dislike them on pizza. Salty fish remains the country’s toughest sell. Their concentrated salt and briny fish flavor can overpower milder toppings.
Eggplant Gets A 52% Thumbs-Down
Just over half of respondents don’t want eggplant on their slice. At 52% dislike, it’s a clear pass for many. Texture and taste split the room. High water content and a soft interior can read soggy or bland on quick bakes.
Artichokes Divide At 44% Dislike
Artichokes aren’t a crowd favorite either. Forty-four percent say they dislike this topping. It’s polarizing, but not a total deal-breaker. A briny taste and fibrous texture can clash with tomato sauce for some eaters.
Broccoli Misses With 39% Dislike
Broccoli faces resistance from 39% of Americans. That’s a sizable chunk of no votes. It struggles to win over pizza traditionalists. Sulfur notes and firm stems can feel out of sync with gooey cheese.
Pineapple Controversy: 35% Dislike, 26% Like
Pineapple remains the internet’s favorite debate for a reason. Thirty-five percent dislike it, yet 26% say they like it on pizza. Love it or not, it’s undeniably talked about. Sweet, juicy chunks collide with salty, savory flavors, which some love and others find jarring.
Crust Preferences Nearly Split
Nationwide, 31% prefer thin crust and 29% prefer regular crust. About one in five, 18%, go for deep-dish. It’s a close race between thin and regular overall. Thin emphasizes crunch and char, regular balances chew and crisp, and deep-dish tastes richer.
Regions Pick Different Crusts
Thin crust leads in the Midwest at 34% and in the West at 32%. The Northeast prefers regular crust at 34%. In the South, it’s a tie between thin and regular at 29% each. Local styles drive preference, from crackly tavern-style in the Midwest to foldable slices in the Northeast.
