12 Best Beers to Elevate Your Pepperoni Pizza Experience

There are few culinary unions as iconic as beer and pizza. They’re like the Lennon and McCartney of the food world—a harmonious duo that brings out the best in each other.

But not all beers are created equal, especially when it comes to pairing them with the spiciness and fatty richness of a pepperoni pizza.

So, as a master beer sommelier, allow me to guide you through the tantalizing world of beer pairings specifically designed for this beloved pie.

The Basics: What Makes Pepperoni Pizza So Special?

Your palate is smothered by a snowball of gooey, molten cheese that’s the epitome of creamy decadence.

Then comes the zesty snap of pepperoni, delivering a spicy kick that’s as invigorating as a drumroll.

Just when you think you’ve mapped it all out, a tangy wave of tomato sauce crashes in, cutting through the richness with its sweet and acidic sparkle.

It’s like a flavor festival where spicy, salty, creamy, and tangy notes are all dancing in a harmonious ballet, each taking turns to shine but never overshadowing the other.

The Technical Beer Lingo: What to Look For?

When pairing beer with pepperoni pizza, you’ll want to consider the beer’s ABV (Alcohol by Volume), IBU (International Bitterness Units), and flavor profile. Here’s a breakdown:

• ABV: Aim for moderate levels, usually between 4-6%.
• IBU: A higher IBU can better balance the spiciness of pepperoni.
• Flavor Profile: Look for beers with complementary or contrasting flavors.

The 12 Best Beers: Your Ultimate Pairing Guide

1. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale

• Why it works: This American classic has a crisp, hoppy flavor that balances the greasiness of the pepperoni.
• ABV: 5.6%
• IBU: 38

2. Samuel Adams Boston Lager

• Why it works: The malt backbone contrasts nicely with the spiciness of the pepperoni, offering a smooth finish.
• ABV: 5%
• IBU: 30

3. Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA

• Why it works: The strong hop bitterness cuts through the fat, enhancing the meat’s flavor.
• ABV: 6%
• IBU: 60

4. Guinness Draught

• Why it works: The creaminess of this stout complements the cheese, while its roasty notes balance the pepperoni.
• ABV: 4.2%
• IBU: 21

5. Anchor Steam Beer

• Why it works: The caramel undertones in this California Common offer a sweet contrast to the saltiness of the meat.
• ABV: 4.9%
• IBU: 35

6. Saison Dupont

• Why it works: This Belgian-style farmhouse ale has a spicy yeast character that echoes the pepperoni’s zest.
• ABV: 6.5%
• IBU: 30

7. Hoegaarden

• Why it works: The light citrus and spice notes of this Belgian Witbier refresh the palate, making each bite feel like the first.
• ABV: 4.9%
• IBU: 19

8. Chimay Blue

• Why it works: This Trappist beer’s rich, dark fruit flavors pair splendidly with the umami of the cheese and meat.
• ABV: 9%
• IBU: 35

9. New Belgium Fat Tire

• Why it works: Its malty sweetness and low bitterness offer a counterbalance to the spicy pepperoni.
• ABV: 5.2%
• IBU: 22

10. Founders All Day IPA

• Why it works: Light but flavorful, this session IPA cleanses the palate without overwhelming the pizza.
• ABV: 4.7%
• IBU: 42

11. Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier

• Why it works: The banana and clove notes in this German classic offer an interesting contrast to the pepperoni’s spiciness.
• ABV: 5.4%
• IBU: 14

12. Stone Arrogant Bastard Ale

• Why it works: This bold ale has enough personality to stand up to the most flavorful pepperoni.
• ABV: 7.2%
• IBU: 100