Sicilian Pizza: From Sicily’s Streets to Your Plate
Sicilian pizza is more than just a dish—it’s a tradition, a slice (pun intended!) of Sicilian culture brought to life. With its rich history, distinct flavour profiles, and deep connection to regional identity, Sicilian pizza stands apart as one of Italy’s most cherished culinary treasures. Whether you’re an adventurous foodie, a passionate pizza lover, or simply curious about Italian cuisine, this guide will help you explore the roots, varieties, and regional specialities of this unique pizza style. And, spoiler alert—there’s more to it than its signature thick crust!
What is Sicilian Pizza?
Originating from the island of Sicily, Sicilian pizza, or sfincione in Sicilian dialect, is a thick, rectangular pizza typically topped with ingredients like rich tomato sauce, anchovies, strong cheese, and herbs. Unlike its thin-crust Neapolitan cousin, Sicilian pizza focuses on bold, hearty flavours and its trademark fluffy yet crispy base.
While many know its U.S. version—thick, square slices served in Italian-American pizzerias—the original Sicilian pizza boasts distinct regional variations. Each Sicilian city brings its own twist to this iconic dish, so let’s take a closer look at its birthplace and forms.
The History of Sicilian Pizza
The story of Sicilian pizza dates back to the 19th century in western Sicily, where pizza was a staple food long before it gained global fame. For Sicilians, pizza wasn’t just a meal—it was street food, a quick and filling way to keep hunger at bay, long before the creation of the modern Neapolitan pizza.
When Sicilian immigrants ventured to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they brought their beloved culinary traditions with them. The result? A reinterpretation of Sicilian pizza, giving rise to the thick-crusted, square slices we see in U.S. pizzerias today.
But before we get to its American version, let’s explore its regional uniqueness across Sicily.
Sicilian Pizza by Region
Each of Sicily’s major cities has made Sicilian pizza its own. Here’s a breakdown of the island’s most delectable variations:
Palermo – Sfincione
Palermo is home to the original sfincione, a rectangular pizza with a fluffy, bread-like crust. Its toppings are rich and baste-worthy, featuring:
- Tomato sauce
- Onions
- Anchovies
- Grated strong cheese (usually Pecorino)
One standout feature? The sauce is often layered on top of the cheese to keep it from burning—a reverse of what you might be used to!
Syracuse – Pizzòlu
Syracuse introduces the world to pizzòlu, a round, stuffed pizza style. Picture this—a pizza filled with delicious ingredients like cured meats, seasonal veggies, and gooey cheese, then wrapped in more dough. It’s as indulgent as it sounds.
Catania – Scacciata and Calzones
Catania takes variety to another level with scacciata, layered pizza with fillings like cheese, potatoes, sausages, and broccoli. Another specialty here is fried calzones—flaky dough pockets brimming with melted cheese and anchovies.
Messina – Piduni and Focaccia alla Messinese
Messina boasts piduni, a calzone-style pizza stuffed with endives, tomatoes, anchovies, and toma cheese. You’ll also find focaccia alla messinese, topped with tomato, vegetables, anchovies, and cheese.
Each of these styles offers a culinary insight into Sicily’s diverse food culture. You could spend weeks exploring these variants—and you absolutely should!
Sicilian Pizza in the United States
When Sicilian immigrants brought their pizza traditions to America, they adapted them to match local possibilities. What emerged was American Sicilian pizza, a square pizza with a thick, airy crust and a crunchy base.
Popular particularly in the northeastern United States, these pizzas are baked in rectangular pans, giving them their signature shape and slightly caramelised edges. Common toppings mirror the hearty nature of its Sicilian ancestors, with mozzarella, tomato sauce, and sometimes pepperoni taking centre stage.
Fun fact—American Sicilian pizza is sometimes referred to as “beach pizza” in parts of New England, owing to its popularity in coastal towns. Beachside Sicilian pizza with a cold drink? Perfection.
Why Sicilian Pizza Stands Out
Sicilian pizza’s unique appeal lies in its:
- Thick yet fluffy crust – A texture that bridges crispiness and softness.
- Regional variety – Every part of Sicily adds its twist, making it endlessly interesting to explore.
- Bold toppings – From anchovies to Pecorino cheese, every bite is packed with strong flavours.
It’s no wonder Sicilian pizza—from Palermo’s street vendors to your local Screamin’ Sicilian Pizza in the freezer aisle of your supermarket—continues to win hearts around the globe.
Screamin’ Sicilian Pizza – The Modern Twist
For a ready-made alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste, Screamin’ Sicilian Pizza is a go-to choice for pizza lovers looking for that authentic, thick crust experience. With variants inspired by Sicilian roots, it delivers bold flavours straight to your kitchen. Whether it’s piled with sausage, creamy mozzarella, or rich marinara sauce, Screamin’ Sicilian makes it easy to indulge in Sicilian-style pizza at home.
Bring a Slice of Sicily to Your Table
Whether you’re planning a visit to Sicily to try sfincione hot out of a wood-fired oven, or experimenting with Screamin’ Sicilian Pizza in your home kitchen, Sicilian pizza offers something truly extraordinary. Its regional differences, rich history, and flexible style create an eating experience that never gets old.
Curious to make your own? Find inspiration in Sicilian pizza recipes or grab a Screamin’ Sicilian Pizza today—either way, you’re taking part in a delicious tradition that spans centuries.