There’s nothing better than digging into a hot, cheesy pizza. But have you ever thought about what drink could make it even better?
For most people, soda is the go-to choice, but here’s the thing. There are plenty of other refreshing options that can enhance the flavors of your favorite slice.
The right drink can balance the richness of the cheese, complement the toppings, and make every bite even more enjoyable. Whether you love a classic Margherita, a spicy pepperoni, or a veggie-loaded delight, there’s a perfect pairing for each one.
And if you’re ready to switch things up and find the ultimate pizza and drink combo, this guide will help you discover the best non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy with your next slice.
Classic Cola
There’s a reason why pizza NE and cola are one of the most popular pairings. The crisp bubbles help balance the richness of melted cheese, while the caramel sweetness complements smoky toppings like pepperoni and sausage. Each sip refreshes your mouth, resetting your taste buds so every bite feels as satisfying as the first. Whether you prefer thin-crust or deep-dish, cola adds a familiar and nostalgic touch to every pizza night.
Lemon Iced Tea
Looking for a drink that blends in without overpowering the pizza? Lemon iced tea is a great choice. The light tea flavor pairs well with cheesy and herb-based pizzas, while the citrusy twist adds a subtle brightness. It works especially well with Margherita or veggie pizzas where the flavors are fresh and delicate. The smooth, mildly tangy taste keeps the meal refreshing and balanced, making it an easy go-to option.
Sparkling Water with Lime
Pizza can sometimes feel a little too heavy, especially when it’s loaded with cheese or rich toppings. Sparkling water with lime helps cleanse the palate after every bite, preventing the flavors from becoming overwhelming. The hint of lime adds a light, citrusy contrast that works well with deep-dish pizzas or creamy white sauce varieties. It’s a great option for those who want a refreshing drink without added sugar.
Fresh Lemonade
For those who enjoy bold flavors, fresh lemonade is a perfect match for pizza. Its natural acidity cuts through greasy, salty toppings like pepperoni or sausage, keeping each bite balanced. The bright citrus notes also bring out the best in fresh ingredients like basil and tomatoes, making it a great pairing for classic Margherita or veggie pizzas. If you enjoy a drink that is both sweet and tart, lemonade is a solid choice.
Ginger Ale
Ginger ale offers a mild spice and sweetness that makes it a great partner for pizza NE, especially if you like bold flavors. The ginger’s warmth balances out spicy toppings like jalapeños or buffalo chicken, while the fizziness keeps the meal from feeling too heavy. It provides a little more character than traditional sodas but remains light and refreshing, making it a good alternative for those who want something different.
Orange Juice
Few drinks are as bright and naturally refreshing as orange juice, and that’s exactly what makes it a surprisingly great match for pizza. The sweet, tangy citrus cuts through the richness of melted cheese and balances the saltiness of cured meats like pepperoni or sausage. It’s especially good with BBQ chicken or breakfast-style pizzas, where the acidity complements smoky and savory flavors. If you’re looking for a drink that’s both fruity and refreshing, orange juice is a solid choice.
Cherry Soda
Cherry soda brings a bold, fruity twist to the classic soda-and-pizza combination. The natural tartness of cherries enhances smoky and spicy toppings like buffalo chicken or jalapeños, while the fizz keeps each bite feeling fresh. Unlike regular cola, cherry soda adds a slightly sweeter and more playful flavor, making it perfect for those who enjoy a drink that’s both familiar and fun.
Peach Iced Tea
Peach iced tea is light, subtly sweet, and easy to drink, making it a great pairing for pizzas with fresh ingredients. The mellow peach flavor works well with white sauce pizzas, veggie-loaded slices, and even gourmet options with arugula or ricotta. Unlike stronger drinks, peach iced tea lets the pizza shine without overwhelming the flavors, making it a great option for those who prefer something smooth and refreshing.
Mint Lemonade
The combination of mint and lemonade is as refreshing as it gets, making it an ideal drink for heavier, cheese-filled pizzas. The mint adds a cooling effect, while the lemon’s tanginess keeps every bite feeling light and balanced. This pairing works particularly well with Mediterranean-style pizzas or anything topped with fresh herbs. If you want something that cleanses the palate and keeps the flavors bright, mint lemonade is the way to go.
Strawberry Basil Cooler
For a more elevated and refreshing pairing, a strawberry basil cooler brings a mix of natural sweetness and herbal depth that complements gourmet pizzas beautifully. The strawberries add a juicy, fruity contrast to cheese-based pizzas, while the basil subtly enhances fresh toppings like tomatoes and mozzarella. This drink is perfect for those who enjoy a more sophisticated and well-balanced combination.
Pineapple Juice
If you believe pineapple belongs on pizza, then pineapple juice is the drink for you. Its sweet, tropical tang pairs effortlessly with salty and smoky flavors, making it an excellent match for Hawaiian pizza or BBQ chicken slices. The natural acidity cuts through the richness of cheese, while the fruity notes add an extra layer of boldness to every bite. Even if you’re not a pineapple-on-pizza fan, this drink brings a refreshing contrast to spice-heavy toppings like jalapeños or buffalo chicken.
Coconut Water
Pizza and coconut water might sound like an odd combination, but it’s the perfect choice when you want something light and hydrating. Unlike sugary sodas, coconut water won’t overpower the flavors of your pizza, making it a great option for creamy white sauce or four-cheese varieties. Its natural cooling effect also helps balance out the heat from spicy toppings, keeping your taste buds refreshed while you enjoy every slice.
Cucumber and Mint Sparkler
Imagine taking a bite of a cheesy, loaded pizza NE, then following it with an ice-cold, bubbly sip of cucumber and mint. That’s the kind of refreshing contrast this drink brings to the table. The crisp cucumber cools down bold flavors, while the mint adds a subtle herbal touch that keeps things light. The added sparkle from the carbonation makes sure your taste buds never get overwhelmed, especially when enjoying heavier, meat-packed pizzas.
Fruit Punch
Some drinks are just pure fun, and fruit punch is one of them. With its mix of citrus, berries, and tropical flavors, it brings a playful burst of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the salty, savory goodness of pizza. It works especially well with classic pepperoni or meat lovers’ pizzas, as the fruity notes help balance the richness of the toppings. If you love bold flavors and a drink that keeps things exciting, fruit punch is the way to go.
Raspberry Iced Tea
If you like a little tang with your tea, raspberry iced tea is a fantastic pizza pairing. The tart raspberry flavor complements fresh ingredients like tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella, making it an excellent match for Margherita or Caprese-style pizzas. The tea itself adds a smooth, slightly earthy contrast to rich cheese and meaty toppings, ensuring each sip resets your palate without overwhelming the flavors of your meal.
Bottom Line: The right drink can make pizza even better, balancing flavors and enhancing every bite. Next time you grab a slice, choose a drink that truly complements your meal.