If you are a pizza lover, chances are you have tried a variety of toppings. But have you ever tried BBQ pork pizza? A delicious combination of tender smoky pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and melted cheese, this pizza is a perfect option for any meat lover. However, it's important to be mindful of the calorie count, as a serving of BBQ pork pizza contains 749 calories.

Despite its high calorie count, BBQ pork pizza can be a healthy option if you choose your toppings carefully. By selecting vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms as toppings, you can add nutrients and fiber to your meal. Additionally, using a whole wheat crust can increase the fiber content of the pizza and make it more filling.

In this article, we'll share some tips for making a delicious and healthy BBQ pork pizza, as well as some side dishes and drinks to pair with it.

Pizza Toppings to Make Your BBQ Pork Pizza Healthier

To make your BBQ pork pizza healthier, it's important to choose your toppings carefully. Here are some options to consider:

• Bell peppers: These colorful vegetables are high in vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Onions: Adding onions to your pizza can provide a boost of flavor as well as prebiotic fiber that feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut.
• Mushrooms: Mushrooms are a low-calorie topping that can add a meaty texture to your pizza without adding extra fat or calories.

By incorporating these toppings into your BBQ pork pizza, you can create a flavorful and nutritious meal.

The Benefits of Eating a BBQ Pork Pizza

While pizza may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of healthy food options, a BBQ pork pizza can actually provide several health benefits. Here are some reasons to indulge in this delicious dish:

• Protein: Pork is a good source of protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair.
• Vitamins and minerals: Depending on the toppings you choose, a BBQ pork pizza can provide a variety of vitamins and minerals. For example, bell peppers are high in vitamin C, while mushrooms are a good source of selenium.
• Satisfaction: Pizza is a tasty and satisfying food that can help you feel full and satisfied.

So don't be afraid to enjoy a slice or two of BBQ pork pizza!

The Worst Toppings to Avoid on Your BBQ Pork Pizza

While there are many toppings that can make your BBQ pork pizza healthier, there are also some to avoid if you're trying to watch your calorie intake. Here are some toppings to steer clear of:

• Extra cheese: While cheese can be a good source of calcium and protein, it's also high in fat and calories. Adding extra cheese to your pizza can quickly bump up the calorie count.
• Processed meats: Toppings like pepperoni, sausage, and bacon are high in saturated fat and sodium. If you're looking to make your BBQ pork pizza healthier, it's best to avoid these toppings.
• Creamy sauces: Creamy sauces like alfredo or ranch can add a lot of extra calories and fat to your pizza. Choose a tangy BBQ sauce instead for flavor without the extra calories.

By avoiding these toppings, you can enjoy a healthier and more nutritious BBQ pork pizza.

How to Make a Homemade BBQ Pork Pizza

Making your own BBQ pork pizza at home is easier than you might think. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2. Roll out a pre-made pizza dough or make your own using whole wheat flour.
3. Spread BBQ sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add cooked and shredded BBQ pork on top of the sauce.
5. Top with your desired toppings, such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pizza.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve.

Making your own BBQ pork pizza at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize it to your liking.

The Best Side Dishes to Pair with Your BBQ Pork Pizza

While BBQ pork pizza can be a satisfying meal on its own, adding some side dishes can make it even more delicious. Here are some options to consider:

• Roasted vegetables: Roasting some vegetables like broccoli or sweet potatoes can provide a healthy and flavorful side dish for your pizza.
• Caesar salad: A fresh Caesar salad can provide a contrast to the warm and hearty pizza. Just make sure to choose a dressing that isn't too high in calories.
• Baked sweet potato fries: Sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to regular fries and can complement the flavors of the pizza well.

Pairing your BBQ pork pizza with a side dish can create a more balanced and satisfying meal.

Calorie Counting: How to Enjoy BBQ Pork Pizza in Moderation

While it's important to enjoy the foods you love, it's also important to keep calories in mind if you're trying to maintain a healthy weight. Here are some tips for enjoying BBQ pork pizza in moderation:

• Stick to one or two slices: Instead of eating an entire pizza, try to enjoy one or two slices and pair it with a side dish or salad to fill you up.
• Choose a thin crust: Thinner crust pizzas tend to have fewer calories than thicker crusts.
• Avoid high-fat toppings: As mentioned earlier, toppings like extra cheese and processed meats can quickly add up in calories. Stick to lean proteins like BBQ pork and lots of veggies.

By being mindful of portion sizes and ingredient choices, you can enjoy BBQ pork pizza while still maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

BBQ Pork Pizza vs. Pepperoni Pizza: Which is Healthier?

If you're a pizza lover, you may be wondering which is healthier: BBQ pork pizza or pepperoni pizza. While both can be high in calories, there are some key differences to consider:

• BBQ pork pizza tends to have fewer calories and less saturated fat than pepperoni pizza.
• Using a whole wheat crust and loading up on veggies can make both pizzas healthier options.
• Ultimately, the healthiness of your pizza depends on the toppings and crust you choose, so be mindful of your choices and enjoy in moderation.

Whether you prefer BBQ pork or pepperoni, there are ways to enjoy pizza in a healthier way.

The Best Drinks to Pair with Your BBQ Pork Pizza

Pairing the right drink with your BBQ pork pizza can enhance the flavors and make for a more enjoyable meal. Here are some options to consider:

• Beer: A cold, refreshing beer can help cut through the rich flavors of the pizza. Try a light lager or a hoppy IPA.
• Red wine: If you prefer wine, go for a red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Chianti that can complement the smoky flavors of the pork.
• Soda: If you're not into alcohol, a cold soda can be a refreshing option. Try a cola or a root beer for a classic pairing.

Choosing the right drink can take your BBQ pork pizza experience to the next level.

Why BBQ Pork Pizza is a Great Comfort Food

In addition to being a tasty and satisfying meal, BBQ pork pizza can also serve as a comfort food. Here's why:

• Familiar flavors: Pizza is a classic comfort food that many people grew up with. The combination of tomato sauce, cheese, and toppings can provide a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
• Warm and hearty: A warm and hearty meal like BBQ pork pizza can make you feel cozy and comforted, especially on a cold day.
• Satisfying: Pizza is a filling and satisfying food that can help alleviate stress and anxiety.

So, if you're feeling down or in need of a little pick-me-up, a slice of BBQ pork pizza may be just what you need.

Pizza Delivery Options for Your BBQ Pork Pizza Cravings

If you're craving BBQ pork pizza but don't feel like making it at home, there are plenty of pizza delivery options to choose from. Here are some popular chains and their options for BBQ pork pizza:

• Papa John's: Papa John's offers a BBQ chicken and bacon pizza that can easily be customized to include BBQ pork instead of chicken.
• Dominos: Dominos has a BBQ pork and bacon pizza on their menu that is sure to satisfy your BBQ cravings.
• Pizza Hut: Pizza Hut offers a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce as an option for their pizzas, which can be paired with your choice of toppings, including BBQ pork.

No matter where you are, you can satisfy your BBQ pork pizza cravings with a quick and easy delivery option.