Top 5 Sicilian Pizzas You Must Try: A Journey Through Italy’s Best Regional Flavors

Sicilian pizza, or sfincione, is one of the most iconic styles of pizza, known for its thick, fluffy crust, rich tomato sauce, and unique toppings. Unlike the thin and crispy Neapolitan pizza, Sicilian pizza has a spongy dough and is often baked in a rectangular shape.

Over time, various regional variations of Sicilian pizza have emerged, each offering a distinct taste and texture.  Here are the top five Sicilian pizzas that you must try if you love deep-dish, flavorful, and authentic Italian flavors.

1. Sfincione (Traditional Sicilian Pizza) 

Sfincione is the classic Sicilian pizza and the inspiration behind the Sicilian-style pizza commonly found in the U.S. Unlike traditional pizzas, sfincione does not have a layer of mozzarella cheese. Instead, it is topped with a robust tomato sauce, anchovies, onions, oregano, and a generous layer of breadcrumbs.

The crust is thick, airy, and slightly crispy on the outside, thanks to the olive oil brushed on the pan before baking. The combination of sweet tomato sauce and savory toppings gives sfincione its bold and irresistible flavor.

2. Sicilian New York-Style Pizza

This is the American version of Sicilian pizza, heavily influenced by Italian immigrants in New York. Unlike sfincione, New York-style Sicilian pizza is loaded with mozzarella cheese and has a richer, more buttery crust. The dough is fermented longer, resulting in a chewier texture with a crispy bottom.

The pizza is typically cut into square slices and is a staple in New York pizzerias. It features a tangy tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and optional toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage

3. Sfincione Bianco (White Sicilian Pizza)

Unlike the traditional sfincione, which features a tomato-based sauce, sfincione bianco is a “white” pizza. It is made with ricotta cheese, onions, and anchovies, creating a creamy, rich texture without the acidity of tomatoes. The toppings are often sprinkled with oregano and breadcrumbs, adding a delightful crunch. The lack of tomato sauce allows the flavors of the cheese and onions to shine, making it a perfect option for those who love a milder but equally satisfying pizza experience.

4. Catanese Sicilian Pizza (Scacciata)

Scacciata is a variation of Sicilian pizza that resembles a stuffed bread or pie rather than an open-faced pizza. It is made by layering dough with a variety of fillings, such as potatoes, sausage, broccoli, ricotta, and sometimes anchovies. The top layer of dough is sealed and baked until golden brown.

The result is a crispy, hearty, and flavorful dish that is popular during the holidays and family gatherings. Scacciata offers a different textural experience compared to other Sicilian pizzas, as the filling remains moist and packed with flavor.

5. Messinese Pizza

Messinese pizza is another regional Sicilian pizza that stands out due to its unique combination of ingredients. It is topped with tomato sauce, tuma cheese (a local soft cheese), anchovies, and olives. Some variations also include hard-boiled eggs.

The tuma cheese melts beautifully, creating a creamy and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the salty anchovies and briny olives. Unlike sfincione, Messinese pizza has a thinner crust, making it lighter yet still full of bold Sicilian flavors.

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