How to Pair Beer and Pizza Like a Pro

Pizza and beer are one of the quintessential culinary combos; they’re a delectable duo that’s been a palate powerhouse since at least World War II, when venues serving this tasty tandem saw a dramatic rise in popularity. 

The reason they’re a match made in mouthwatering heaven is simple: the carbonation, bitterness, and ice-coldness of beer pair perfectly with rich, savory, and steamy pizza. 

But how do you take this combo to an even more luscious level and pair pizza and beer like a pro? Try a bite out of the following tips: 

Keep Intensity Consistent

A simple cheese pizza often pairs well with a light, crisp beer that won’t overpower the mozzarella flavor or the tomato sauce's zest. More intense pizzas require more intense beers. A sausage, pepperoni, or bacon pizza, for instance, pairs well with amber ales, brown ales, and pale ales.   

Different Veggies, Different Beer

Some veggies, such as mushrooms and onions, pair well with balanced beers that go down easy. Veggies with more flavorful profiles, including jalapeños and hot peppers, need more flavorful beers. Beers with slightly fruity undertones are a good option, though sour or bitter beers work well too, especially if you want to enhance the spice.    

Avoid Stouts and Porters. . .Maybe

Stouts and porters are go-to favorites for those who love dark beer, but they don’t always pair well with pizza for one reason: they’re filling. This is especially true if they’re combined with sweetness (a chocolate porter, for instance). So, unless you’re really hungry and have room for both, turn to dark beer at a later date. After all, you don’t want to ruin your pizza appetite. 

Trial and Error

When it comes down to it, no beer is perfect with pizza; the key is individual taste. Whatever pairing you like is the most ideal one for you, and the only way to discover this is through trial and error. In other words, order pizza, order beer. Rinse and repeat. 

Atomic Cowboy, home to Denver Biscuit Co. and Fat Sully’s Pizza, is a lively blend of ideas and experiences, food and drinks, late nights and early mornings, north and south. We offer both dine-in and delivery options. Contact us today to learn more about our menu, events, and awards.