What To Serve With Pizza At A Birthday Party (The BEST Guide!)

When planning a birthday party, choosing the right accompaniments to serve with pizza can take the meal from good to great! 

Whether you’re hosting a party for children or adults, the key is to pair your pizza with options that balance the meal and add a touch of creativity.

Just need some quick ideas? 

The best choices for what to serve with pizza at a birthday party include veggie sticks and dips, chips, crisps, nuts, crackers, Caesar salad, couscous salad, garlic bread, ice cream, and of course, birthday cake! 

Let’s take a look at some more ideas, as well as extra tips for making your pizza party a huge success… 

Essentials of a Pizza Party

When planning your pizza party, selecting the right variety of pizzas and addressing dietary needs ensures all guests can enjoy the meal.

Choosing the Right Pizza Toppings

When you’re picking pizza toppings, aim for a range that caters to different tastes.

Classic options like margherita, pepperoni, and Hawaiian are universally popular.

However, it’s a good idea to also include some unique toppings, such as BBQ chicken or artichoke and olive, to add variety.

Here’s a quick guide:

• Meat Lovers: Pepperoni, Sausage, Ham
• Vegetarian: Grilled Vegetables, Margherita, Four Cheese
• Unique Flavours: Buffalo Chicken, Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato

(If you’re making your own pizzas, I recommend using this margherita recipe – it’s super easy, delicious, and you can customise it however you like!) 

Dietary Considerations

You must consider the dietary requirements of your guests.

Offer at least one vegetarian option, and include gluten-free bases for those with intolerances.

For vegans, have a pizza with dairy-free cheese.

Check for any allergies to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable dining experience.

Here’s a simple dietary options table:

Dietary Need	Options Available
Vegetarian	Veggie Supreme, Margherita
Gluten-free	Gluten-free base with various toppings
Vegan	Vegan Cheese with Mixed Vegetables
Allergy-specific	Pizzas made without allergens (nuts, soy, etc.)

Finger Foods and Snacks

Pairing the right finger foods and snacks with pizza can elevate your birthday party to the next level.

These easy-to-serve options will complement the pizza perfectly and ensure your guests have a variety of tastes to enjoy.

Vegetable Sticks and Dips

Offering a selection of vegetable sticks such as carrots, celery, and peppers is a healthy and colourful choice.

Serve them with a variety of dips like humous, tzatziki, and salsa.

This combination provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavours of pizza.

• Carrots
  • Tzatziki
• Celery
  • Humous
• Peppers
  • Salsa

Chips and Crisps

Bowls of crisps and chips are a must-have at any party.

Choose from salted, cheese-flavoured, or sour cream and onion for a savoury crunch.

Kettle-cooked varieties add a gourmet twist.

• Salted
• Cheese-flavoured
• Sour Cream and Onion

Nuts and Crackers

A mix of nuts offers a hearty snack that’s rich in flavour and perfect for munching.

Pair with a selection of crackers, including both plain and seasoned options, which act as a light appetiser.

• Nuts
  • Almonds
  • Cashews
• Crackers
  • Plain
  • Multigrain

Salads and Sides

Pairing your pizza with the appropriate salads and sides can elevate your birthday party spread.

These choices will bring a refreshing balance to your meal.

Classic Caesar Salad

You’ll need crispy romaine lettuce, shredded Parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing.

Toss together these ingredients, ensuring an even coating of the dressing.

Traditionally, anchovies are included, but you can omit them if preferred.

Mediterranean Couscous Salad

This vibrant salad involves couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice.

It’s a light yet nutritious accompaniment that complements the hearty flavours of pizza.

Garlic Bread and Cheesy Breadsticks

These carb-rich sides are a crowd-pleaser.

For garlic bread, spread a mixture of butter, crushed garlic and parsley onto a baguette, and bake until golden.

Cheesy breadsticks require dough, mozzarella, and a touch of garlic powder.

Serve them warm for an irresistible side dish.

Desserts and Sweet Treats

Complement your pizza with delightful dessert options that will leave your guests with a sweet taste.

Keep reading to find the perfect sweet conclusion for your birthday festivity…

Fruit Platter

A fruit platter is an excellent choice for what to serve with pizza at a birthday party. 

Arrange an assortment of seasonal fruits like strawberries, grapes, and sliced melons.

You can create interesting shapes or a colourful pattern to add visual appeal and entice your guests to dig in.

Ice Cream Selection

Offer an ice cream selection to cater to different taste preferences.

Consider the following:

• Classic Flavours: Vanilla, Strawberry, Chocolate
• Toppings: Sprinkles, Chocolate Chips, Fruit Compote

Scoop the ice cream into cones or small bowls, and let your guests choose their favourite combinations.

Themed Birthday Cake

A themed birthday cake adds a special touch to the celebration.

Choose a design that matches the party theme or the birthday person’s interests.

Here’s a simple guide to picking your cake:

• Size: Depending on the number of guests
• Flavour: Traditional flavours like chocolate or a sponge cake with jam and buttercream
• Decoration: Edible figurines or customised icing featuring the party theme

Beverage Selection

When planning what beverages to provide at your birthday party alongside pizza, consider the variety of preferences your guests may have.

A well-rounded selection ensures that everyone has something they enjoy.

Soft Drinks

Soft drinks are a classic choice and cater to guests of all ages. Offer a range of options:

• Cola: A party staple that pairs well with all pizza types.
• Lemon-Lime: A refreshing choice that balances the palate.
• Orange Soda: Adds a fruity twist.
• Root Beer: An indulgent selection with a unique flavour.

Alcoholic Beverages

If you’re expecting adult guests, including a few alcoholic options can be appropriate.

• Beer: A light lager complements the cheesy goodness of pizza.
• Wine: Opt for a medium-bodied red like Chianti for a robust pairing.
• Spirits: Simple mixers like vodka with lemonade or rum with cola can be popular.

Non-Alcoholic Alternatives

For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages or designated drivers, there are plenty of tasty options.

• Sparkling Water: With a slice of lemon or lime for a zesty kick.
• Iced Tea: Sweetened or unsweetened, flavoured with lemon or peach.
• Mocktails: Fun and fancy, like a virgin mojito or a non-alcoholic sangria.

Decorations and Themes

Creating a festive atmosphere can make your birthday party with pizza even more enjoyable.

Focus on coordinating tableware with decorations and consider a theme to tie everything together.

Table Setup and Serveware

Opt for bold colours and fun patterns for your tablecloth and napkins.

They should complement the colours of your pizza and side dishes, enhancing the visual appeal.

Use pizza-themed serveware, such as pizza slice plates or napkins with pizza motifs, to maintain a cohesive look.

• Plates: Look for pizza slice-shaped plates or ones with pizza prints.
• Napkins: Choose napkins that match your overall colour scheme.
• Tablecloth: Select a vibrant, wipe-clean tablecloth, perfect for handling any spills.

Party Decor

Your party decor should create an inviting and joyous environment.

Hang streamers and balloons in colours that match your chosen theme—reds, whites, and greens are excellent for an Italian pizzeria vibe.

Add a personalised birthday banner with the guest of honour’s name for a custom touch.

• Streamers: Drape these across the room or around the party table.
• Balloons: Use a mix of helium-filled and regular balloons at varying heights.
• Banner: Ensure the birthday banner is front and centre for maximum impact.

Themed Accessories

Choose themed accessories that align with your decor.

If you’ve gone for an Italian theme, consider miniature Italian flags or faux olive branches as centrepieces.

For a kid’s party, character-themed accessories from their favourite show, alongside pizza, can be a hit.

• Centrepieces: Small Italian flags or bouquets of flowers in pizza sauce cans.
• Character Themes: Incorporate children’s favourite characters through tableware and room decorations.

Party Activities and Games

Engage your guests with fun activities and games that complement the pizza theme.

These enjoyable pastimes will keep everyone entertained and make your birthday party memorable.

Pizza Making Contest

Organise a pizza making contest where you can channel your inner chef.

Set up stations with pre-made dough, a variety of toppings, and sauces.

Here’s what you need:

• Prep Stations: Assign a station for each participant.
• Ingredients: Offer a range of toppings such as mozzarella, pepperoni, mushrooms, and peppers.
• Judging Criteria: Consider taste, creativity, and presentation.

Party Games

Introduce a lineup of party games that are perfect for guests of all ages.

Consider these favourites:

• Pass the Parcel: Wrap a prize and layer it with wrapped sweets.
• Musical Chairs: Arrange chairs in a circle, one less than the number of players.
• Play music and pass it around until the music stops.
• Play music and have everyone walk around; when the music stops, they must find a chair.

Music and Dancing

Create a lively atmosphere with music and dancing.

Set up a designated dance area and consider these ideas to elevate the experience:

1. Playlist: Craft a playlist with popular tunes that appeal to a wide audience.
2. Dance-Off: Host a friendly competition where individuals or groups can showcase their moves.

Party Favors and Mementos

When hosting a birthday party, sending your guests home with party favours and mementos is a lovely way to thank them for celebrating with you.

Here are some creative and thoughtful ideas that pair perfectly with a pizza-themed birthday bash:

• Customised Pizza Cutters: A practical gift that’s bound to be used, engrave these with the date or a cheeky saying like “Slice of fun at [Name]’s party!”
• Miniature Herb Pots: Give a small pot with basil or oregano, perfect for adding a fresh touch to their next homemade pizza.
• Personalised Recipe Cards: Share your secret pizza dough recipe or a beloved sauce for guests to try at home.
• Magnetic Pizza Magnets: Cute and functional, these can adorn fridges and remind your friends of the fun times shared.

For children:

• Pizza-Themed Stationery: Pencil cases, erasers, and notebooks fashioned after everyone’s favourite pie.
• Pizza Slice Keychains: Adorable and vibrant, a small token that can be attached to their school bags.

Here’s a simple table to summarize what you could include:

Age Group	Favour Idea	Description
Adults	Customised Pizza Cutters	Engraved with the party date or a pun
All Ages	Miniature Herb Pots	Basil or oregano for cooking
All Ages	Personalised Recipe Cards	Share a favourite pizza recipe
All Ages	Pizza Magnets	Functional fridge decoration
Children	Pizza-Themed Stationery	Useful and fun for school
Children	Pizza Slice Keychains	Bright and cheerful accessory

Cleanup and Waste Management

When hosting a birthday party with pizza, efficient cleanup and waste management are crucial.

You’ll want to keep your space tidy and make the post-party clean-up as seamless as possible.

Preparation is Key:
Before the guests arrive, set up designated areas for waste and recycling.

Clear, labelled bins will guide your guests and help keep things sorted.

• Waste Bins: Have a couple of bins lined with refuse bags for general waste.
• Recycling: Set up separate bins for cardboard, plastic, and glass.

During the Party:
Keep an eye on the waste stations to avoid overflow.

You might need to change the bags if they fill up during the event.

• Pizza Boxes: Flatten cardboard pizza boxes to save space in the recycling bin.
• Napkins and Paper Plates: If you’re using disposable plates and napkins, ensure they are tossed into the general waste bin, unless they are compostable.

Food Waste:
Minimise food waste by encouraging guests to take leftover pizza home.

Provide aluminium foil or compostable food containers for this purpose.

• Compost: If you have the facility, offer a compost bin for organic waste like crusts or salad remnants.

After the Party:
Once the guests have left, it’s time to get everything back to normal:

• General Sweep: Collect any stray items such as bottle caps or broken balloons.
• Recycling: Ensure the recyclables are clean and free from food residue before disposing of them.
• Disposal: Tie up the waste bags securely and place them in your external bins for collection.

What’s your favourite idea for what to serve with pizza at a birthday party? 

Share your thoughts in the comments section below! 

For more pizza based inspiration, take a look at salads to serve with pizza, and desserts to serve with pizza.