It sounds enticing to buy two medium pizzas at a discount, but you knead to know the math.
2 Medium Pizzas vs. 1 Large—What’s Actually Better?
You’ve seen countless deals from the best pizza chains—like two medium pizzas for $5.99 each. If a large pizza is $11.99, the two medium pizzas definitely sound better. But have we been taken in by clever marketing when it comes to two medium pizzas vs. one large? This viral Reddit post has the internet convinced that one large pizza is better than two mediums, but it assumes that a large pizza is an 18-inch pie. That doesn’t sound right—so we researched standard pizza sizes and did the math.
See what your pizza delivery person isn’t telling you.
2 Mediums vs. 1 Large: Here’s the Math
The standard medium pizza is usually a 12-inch circle, whereas a standard large pizza is a 14-inch circle. It seems like you’ll have nearly twice as much pizza for roughly the same price if you order two mediums.
Let’s do the math before your next movie night to confirm.
A 12-inch medium pizza is traditionally cut into eight slices and serves two people. A 14-inch large pizza is cut into eight slices and will serve two or three people. You’re going to have way more pizza with two 12-inch mediums! But don’t take our word for it—let’s take a look at a standard equation from our grade school days.
The calculation to determine the area of a circle is πr², where ‘r’ represents the radius (half of the diameter).
To calculate the area of one large 14-inch pizza:
First, find the radius: 14-inch divided by two is seven.
Then, 7² is 49. 49 x π is 154-inch² of pizza.
To calculate the area of two medium 12-inch pizzas:
First, find the radius: 12-inch divided by two is six.
Then, 6² is 36. 36 x π is 113-inch², multiplied by two for a total of 226-inch² of pizza.
There’s no denying the numbers! The math proves that two 12-inch medium pizzas have a larger overall surface area than one 14-inch large pie.
Does the math always work?
The standard size for most pizza chains is a 12-inch medium and a 14-inch large. But some chains may have a 16-inch or 18-inch large size. If you can order an 18-inch pizza for the price of two medium pizzas, that’s going to be a better deal. And keep in mind, if you’re ordering a rectangular regional pizza style, that might throw off the math.
Faster-Than-Delivery Pizza Recipes
Homemade PizzaThis recipe is a hearty, zesty main dish with a crisp, golden crust. Feel free to add your favorite toppings. —Marianne Edwards, Lake Stevens, Washington
A homemade dough, simple tomato sauce and your favorite toppings make this the quintessential homemade pizza recipe. It's the perfect activity to do with the kids, too. Just let the adults handle the oven!
Homemade Pepperoni PizzaYou’ll love working with the dough, the cheesy surprise inside the crust and the jazzed-up sauce in this pie. —Scottie Orr-Wedeven, Grand Rapids, Michigan
Pepperoni is a simple, easy topping that quickly elevates any cheese pizza into something a bit more flavorful. I always opt for mini pepperoni because they look beautiful on a pizza when they cup while baking.
Cheese PizzaThis recipe is a great starter pizza if you're new to making it from scratch. It's plain cheese with homemade pizza sauce, but you could add your family's favorite toppings and save time using a prepared sauce. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
While you might have to convince your family to try a specialty pizza, everyone will agree on a classic cheese pizza. Since cheese is the star ingredient, make sure you're picking the best cheese for pizza: One with good meltability, stretchiness and flavor.
Margherita PizzaThis easy Margherita Pizza with fresh basil and oregano is a great way to spice up our weekday dinner routine! With crushed tomatoes, garlic, and Mozzarella cheese, this pizza is full of authentic Italian flavor! Just as a reminder, I am a TOH Community Cook. Angelica contacted me to make this recipe using a list of recommended ingredients. Let me know if you have any questions. I hope you enjoy! Thanks!
No homemade pizza collection would be complete without the popular margherita! Named for Queen Margherita of Italy, this pretty pie shows off the colors of the Italian flag with red sauce, white mozzarella and fresh green basil.
Deep-Dish PizzaMy husband and I tried to duplicate the deep-dish pizza recipe from a popular restaurant, and I think our Chicago-style deep-dish pizza turned out even better. The secret is baking it in a cast-iron skillet! —Lynn Hamilton, Naperville, Illinois
Can't make it to Chicago for authentic deep-dish style pies? Meet the next best thing. This wonderful pizza is first layered with cheese, followed by the meat and vegetables, the chunky tomato sauce, then more cheese for good measure. To make this pizza more like an authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza, use all the cheese in the first layer, then add the toppings and finish with the sauce on top.
Homemade Pizza SupremeEven if you've never made pizza from scratch, I hope you'll try this recipe. it's the highlight of my favorite casual meal. You have to plan ahead to allow rising time for the dough, but it is easy to work with and the crust is so good.
If this is your usual grab from the frozen section, leave it on the shelf this time! Pizza supreme is easy to make at home, and all of the fun toppings are within reach at the grocery store.
Sicilian Pizza (Sfincione)My favorite pizza from childhood is still my favorite today. The crunchy bread-crumb topping sets it apart from its American counterpart. I like to top this pie with fresh basil. —Susan Falk, Sterling Heights, Michigan
Sfincia, which means sponge, is one of the most popular street foods in Italy, where these Sicilian squares are covered with crispy breadcrumbs, grated cheese and fresh basil. If you're opposed to anchovies, feel free to leave them out.
Hawaiian PizzaPineapples bring a touch of sweetness to balance with the salty cheese and savory ham in this Hawaiian pizza. Hearty, loaded and made with a thick crust, this recipe will convince anyone that pineapples do belong on pizza. —Margaret Drye, Plainfield, New Hampshire
Juicy chunks of pineapple and cooked ham are the building blocks to a proper Hawaiian pizza. This tasty pie will convince even the most pineapple on pizza-averse.
Fresh Veggie PizzaThere's no need to bring confetti to your next snack-time gathering. Just carry in this colorful veggie pizza that's topped with a rainbow of crunchy vegetables! Guests usually don't even guess this delicious pizza is low-fat. —Brooke Wiley, Halifax, Virginia
A tube of premade crescent rolls makes this fresh veggie pizza so easy and flavorful, and the cream cheese-ranch sauce pairs perfectly with the fresh vegetable topping.
Mushroom PizzaWhat's great about this mushroom pizza is you don't need to worry about finding the right toppings. Whatever mushrooms are in season or at your market will work beautifully. I like to get as many different ones as possible. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
What I love about mushroom pizza is that I can use any mushroom varieties I please. Common ones like portobello, cremini and shiitake are just as welcomed as wild mushrooms like chanterelles or oyster mushrooms.
Cast-Iron PizzaPizza has always been a favorite in my house, so this throw-together recipe is a huge hit! There are so many variations of ingredients you could use to turn this dinner main into a breakfast delight! —Laura Herbage, Covington, Louisiana
Cooking pizza on cast iron is the best way to mimic the pizza you'd get from an outdoor pizza oven: A crust that's crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside with a pool of cheese in the middle. Here’s how to clean your cast-iron skillet once the pizza is done.
New York-Style PizzaThis New York-style pizza recipe makes a no-nonsense pie. Since the crust is pliable enough to fold, cut the pizza into larger pieces if you want to eat your slices in the traditional New York way. Who says pizza isn't portable? —Mariam Ishaq, Buffalo, New York
In the city that never sleeps, by-the-slice pizza is sold from storefront windows. While it may not be quite as quick and easy, this homemade New York-style pizza is just like the real thing—floppy, foldable crust and all.
White PizzaYou'll feel like you're in a pizzeria when you serve up this white pizza. Garnish the top with fresh arugula or basil for a pop of flavor and color. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
A healthy smear of ricotta replaces any need for tomato sauce in this white pizza recipe. That's not the only cheese, though: Mozzarella and Parmesan are baked on top for extra ooey gooey goodness.
Pesto PizzaOn your next Italian night, use pesto instead of red sauce for a refreshingly different take on pizza. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Pesto is an unexpected tomato sauce swap on pizza, but its garlicky, herbaceous and nutty flavor is a welcomed change. Pesto is gorgeous with mozzarella and tomato slices, but feel free to use any of your favorite pizza toppings.
Detroit-Style PizzaTopped with pepperoni and melted, ooey-gooey cheese, this traditional Detroit-style pizza is just what your pizza night needs. Don't be surprised when it vanishes in seconds. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Detroit-style pizza has a thick, light, spongy crust and is baked in a rectangular pan with brick cheese and tomato sauce spooned (not spread!) on top. I love this pizza when I want to serve something approachable but a little more elevated and fun.
Grilled Veggie PizzaI came up with this recipe one summer as a way to use up vegetables from our garden. Grilling the veggies first brings out their sizzling flavors. Try it with a sprinkling of olives or pine nuts before adding the cheese. —Susan Marshall, Colorado Springs, Colorado
This grilled veggie pizza is a summertime hero. First, the veggies are cooked on the grill so they soften and take on some color, then the entire pizza hits the grill so every slice is crispy and smoky.
Clam PizzaThis unique pizza makes a great light meal. It's always been a big hit with our family and friends. —Susan Seymour, Valatie, New York
As strange as the idea sounds, clams become beautifully sweet when roasted, making them a great addition to pizza. White sauce adds richness, and smoky bacon and pungent garlic add even more depth.
Baked Potato PizzaI make this creative baked potato pizza for Super Bowl parties. The sour cream, bacon, onions and cheese make every bite taste just like a loaded baked potato. —Gina Pierson, Centralia, Missouri
Need a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your game day watch parties? This baked potato pizza—loaded with sour cream, bacon, onions and cheese—is up for the challenge.
Buffalo Chicken PizzaFans of spicy chicken wings will love this rendition that turns it into pizza. Serve it up with blue cheese dressing and crisp celery, just like the tasty original. —Shari DiGirolamo, Newton, Pennsylvania
Buffalo chicken fans appreciate the spicy saucy tenders any way they can get 'em—in a basket, in a pasta bake and especially piled high on a slice of pizza with melty mozz. Serve with blue cheese dressing and crisp celery, just like the tasty original.
Chicken Alfredo PizzaHad a full day of sledding, shopping or decorating? Settle in for a family-pleasing meal of homemade pizza. With a prebaked crust and simple Alfredo sauce, it’s easy and delicious. —Tammy Hanks, Gainsville, Florida
Homemade Alfredo sauce is the key to making this comforting pizza-fied classic. Premade pizza crusts keep the pizza accessible even on a weeknight.
Spinach PizzaThis tasty pizza is so easy to prepare. My family, including my young daughter, loves it. What an easy way to make a delicious, veggie-filled meal! —Dawn Bartholomew, Raleigh, North Carolina
Trying to get kids to eat their greens isn't always the easiest, but this white pizza sneaks a healthy dose of spinach and tomatoes under a blanket of cheese. Paired with the Alfredo sauce base, they'll devour it.
Meatball PizzaI always keep meatballs and pizza crusts in the freezer to make this specialty on the spur of the moment. Add a tossed salad and you have a delicious dinner. —Mary Humeniuk-Smith, Perry Hall, Maryland
With a bag of frozen meatballs, a pre-baked crust and a can of pizza sauce, you can be digging into a hearty pie in 25 minutes. This recipe employs shredded mozzarella, cheddar and grated Parmesan, but feel free to use whatever cheese you have in the fridge.
St. Louis-Style PizzaProvel cheese and a cracker-thin crust are the hallmarks of this St. Louis-style pizza recipe. Don't forget to cut your pizza as they would in Missouri—square pieces only! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
From the cracker-like crust to the quintessential Provel cheese, St. Louis-style pizza is one of my favorites. Every Midwesterner knows that those corner triangles are worth fighting over!
Vegan PizzaCheck out all our tips, topping suggestions and variations for making the best vegan pizza.
This gorgeous vegan pizza starts with a basic pizza dough (which is naturally vegan to begin with!) and then is adorned with a myriad of colorful, flavorful vegetables. Add your favorite vegan cheese brands, and dive into this wholesome, plant-based pizza.
Copycat Little Caesar’s Pretzel Crust PizzaIn our house, we love pizza and pretzel bread! When Little Caesar's came out with their pretzel crust pizza, we fell in love but also knew it was unrealistic to be buying it all the time. The next best thing was to make it ourselves, and it came out even better than the restaurant's version! This thick-crusted copycat pizza is bound to blow your socks off! Hope you enjoy! —Mary Lou Timpson, Centennial Park, Arizona
Copycat recipes have reached cult status for a reason, and this pretzel crust pizza tastes just like the Little Caesar’s legend that sadly is no longer available. While Little Caesar’s doesn’t share their recipe, we feel this dupe comes pretty close, thanks to the characteristically dark, salty exterior you look for in a delicious soft pretzel.
Pepperoni Pan PizzaI've spent years trying to come up with the perfect pizza crust and sauce, and they're paired up in this recipe. I fix this crispy, savory pizza for my family often, and it really satisfies my husband and sons. —Susan Lindahl, Alford, Florida
The beauty of baking pizzas in a pan is the equal heat distribution, promising a crust that's crispy on the outside but soft, light and tender on the inside. With the perfect homemade pizza crust base, from-scratch sauce, three different cheeses and lots of pepperoni, your family will request this one again and again.
Bubble PizzaThis recipe has a no-fuss crust made from refrigerated biscuits. For a jazzed-up version, add your favorite pizza toppings. —Jo Groth, Plainfield, Iowa
This recipe has a no-fuss crust made from refrigerated biscuits. Though it only takes five ingredients to come together, add your favorite pizza toppings and an ample amount of cheese for a jazzed-up version. That's the secret to the bubbly top after all...so the cheesier, the better.
Flatbread PizzaI have been making this recipe for years to make homemade calzones, pizza and grilled flatbread pizza. It always comes out perfectly and doubles and triples well. This batch will make one large pizza or two to three calzones. —Patricia Prescott, Manchester, New Hampshire
Flatbread pizza is a great weeknight dinner as it can be assembled, baked and on the table in just a fraction of the time as regular homemade pizza! Quick-rise yeast eliminates the pizza dough's proofing time, without completely removing the delicious homemade crust aspect we want.
English Muffin PizzaCraving some 'za but don't have a pizza crust or frozen pizza on hand? Spread some pizza sauce and toppings onto split English muffins for a delicious makeshift personal pizza night. —Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan
Speaking of quick and easy homemade pizzas, who knew English muffins made the perfect ready-to-go pizza base? These mini pizzas are perfect for tiny hands, too!
Steak & Blue Cheese PizzaWhen I have a little extra time to play with, I caramelize the onion in this recipe to add a different flavor. —Kadija Bridgewater, Deerfield Beach, Florida
This one's for the meat lovers. Even steakhouse naysayers won't be able to resist the charms of this pizza layered with sliced sirloin, blue cheese crumbles and caramelized onions.
Chicken Bacon Ranch PizzaA chicken club pizza topped with lettuce, tomatoes and dressing? You’re in for a treat! Vegetables give the cheesy crust a cool crunch. —Debbie Reid, Clearwater, Florida
Meatball subs, eggplant parm sliders, bacon-chicken clubs...turn your favorite sandwich ingredients into the perfect pizza with a crispy crust and a drizzle of dressing.
Zucchini Pizza BitesThis simple snack is the perfect, low-carb way to satisfy your pizza cravings. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
For a low-carb alternative to satisfy pizza cravings, try these mini zucchini pizzas. They're broiled until crisp-tender, around one to two minutes per side. This tried-and-true technique also works well with portobello mushroom caps.
Game-Night Nacho PizzaSome like it hot with jalapenos; others like it cool with a dollop of sour cream. But one thing’s for sure: This is “nacho” ordinary pizza night. —Jamie Jones, Madison, Georgia
Some like it hot with jalapenos; others like it cool with a dollop of sour cream. But one thing's for sure: This is "nacho" ordinary pizza night. Here are some more nacho recipes you'll love for game nights.
Cheeseburger PizzaMy husband's favorite foods are pizza and cheeseburgers, so I combined the two in a pie with mayo and dill pickle juice. People who try this cheeseburger pizza always laugh in surprise because it's so good. —Angie Zimmerman, Eureka, Illinois
For those nights when you can't decide between pizza or burgers, go for both. Brushing the edges of the pizza crust with melted butter and sprinkling sesame seeds over top prior to baking really gives the pizza the classic cheeseburger look.
Thanksgiving Lover’s PizzaGot Thanksgiving Day leftovers? Forget ho-hum turkey sandwiches and try this unique take on pizza instead. Get creative with different variations: use whole berry or jelly cranberry sauce; add dollops of mashed potatoes on top; drizzle with turkey gravy; sprinkle with stuffing or dressing; or try unique pizza crust varieties. —Carla Parker, Anderson, South Carolina
You weren't going to make another turkey sammie, were you? Thanksgiving leftovers deserve more love, and this is one inspired way to get creative. Spread cranberry sauce on top of the crust, add dollops of mashed potatoes on top, drizzle with turkey gravy, sprinkle with stuffing and watch everyone reach for seconds and thirds.
Arugula PizzaThis arugula pizza is great served as an appetizer for get-togethers with family or friends. My girlfriends and I love it because it has that sophisticated gourmet touch, and it's healthy too! This also serves four as a main course. —Annette Riva, Naperville, Illinois
An elevated take on the salad pizza, arugula pizza with prosciutto has that sophisticated gourmet touch. If you really want to get fancy, add a few zigzags of balsamic glaze over the top for a sweet finish.
Pizza CapreseOne of my favorite pizzas is so simple to make and comes together so quickly. Pizza Caprese is simply heirloom tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and really good extra virgin olive oil. I could eat this every day! —Beth Berlin, Oak Creek, Wisconsin
If you love a Caprese salad with a side of bread, then this pizza Caprese with heirloom tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and high-quality extra virgin olive oil will be right up your alley. You could also swap fresh mozzarella for burrata.
Cheese Crust PizzaString cheese is the secret to success for this popular stuffed-crust pizza. Prebaking the crust crust before you add the toppings assures that the cheese inside will melt completely.—Terri Gonzalez, Roswell, New Mexico
String cheese is the secret to success in this popular stuffed crust pizza recipe, as is prebaking the crust before you add the toppings to ensure the cheese melts completely. Looking for the best cheese to stuff the crust with? These are the best string cheese brands we tried.
Chicken Parm PizzaThis tasty pizza is the perfect combo—quick and easy to make, and a winner with even picky eaters. It's a handy option for a family dinner on a busy night or for the center of the table at a kids' party. —Karen Wittmeier, Parkland, Florida
Quick and easy to prep, chicken parm pizza is a winner, even with picky eaters. It's a handy option for a family dinner on a busy night or for the center of the table at a kids' party.
Artichoke Chicken Pesto PizzaMake pizza night an upscale affair with this fun twist on the traditional pie. A prebaked crust and prepared pesto keep things quick and easy. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
A lightened-up version of spinach artichoke dip with cubed cooked chicken, nutty pesto and a mix of cheeses make this one perfect pizza pie. If you're trying to cut back on carbs, try a cauliflower crust or keto-friendly crust.
Spicy Chicken Pumpkin PizzaThink pizza and pumpkin can’t go together? This chicken pumpkin pizza will change your mind. The sweetness of the pumpkin paired with the spice of the chipotle peppers makes for a delicious, balanced sauce. I love that this recipe incorporates healthy ingredients in a fun, family-friendly way. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
There are some amazing pumpkin recipes out there, but not a lot of them are in pizza form! Think pizza and pumpkin can't go together? This chicken pumpkin pizza will change your mind. The sweetness of the pumpkin paired with the spice of the chipotle peppers makes for a delicious, balanced sauce.
Crescent Roll Breakfast PizzaPizza for breakfast? Kids of all ages will love making—and munching—this hearty meal-in-one made with convenient crescent rolls and frozen hash browns. It's even great for camping! —Rae Truax, Mattawa, Washington
Who doesn't love breakfast for dinner? This breakfast pizza starts with a crescent roll crust that's topped with hash browns, sausage, cheese and scrambled eggs. I love dotting a bit of hot sauce on my slices!
Peppery Pizza LoavesI often take these French bread pizzas to church picnics or potluck suppers and there are never any left. When I fix them for me and my husband, I freeze two halves in foil to enjoy later. —Lou Stasny, Poplarville, Mississippi
These pizza loaves have a handful of sliced jalapenos for a little kick, chopped green onions, mushrooms and a cheesy beefy topping. Pro tip: Freeze two halves in foil to enjoy later.
Garlic Bread PizzaBetween working full-time, going to school and raising three children, finding time-saving recipes that my family likes is one of my biggest challenges. These quick pizzas pack a huge amount of flavor. —Amy Grim, Chillicothe, Ohio
Finding time-saving recipes that your family likes is usually a challenge. Luckily, these quick pizzas pack a huge amount of flavor. Frozen garlic Texas toast crisps up in five minutes before getting topped with pepperoni and cheese.
BLT PizzaI use a prebaked crust and fixings from the much-loved BLT sandwich to create this fun variation. It's my family's favorite pizza. —Marilyn Ruggles, Lee's Summit, Missouri
If you're a BLT loyalist, then you'll quickly get on board with this pizza version. With a prebaked crust and classic fixings, this fun variation comes together in less than 30 minutes.
Make-a-Monster PizzaCreepy creatures have completely taken over this Halloween meal! Since you can create a different design for each square, it's easy to cater to every diner's individual preferences. —Marie Louise Ludwig, Phoenixville, Pennsylvania
Creepy creatures have completely taken over this Halloween meal! Since you can create a different design for each spooky square, it's easy to cater to every diner's individual preferences with toppings like ham, pepperoni, chicken and a bounty of veggies (think asparagus, peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms and red onion). And, of course, you can always get creative with different shapes for different holidays.
Bacon and Spinach PizzaOur go-to pizza is a snap to make using packaged pizza crust and ready-to-serve bacon. The kids don't even mind the spinach on top! —Annette Riva, Naperville, Illinois
File this one under Pinterest-worthy pizza. With a packaged pizza crust and ready-to-serve bacon, the kids won't even mind the spinach on top!
Pizza Recipes FAQ
How do you make pizza dough for homemade pizza?
To make pizza dough for homemade pizza, proof active dry yeast in warm water with a bit of sugar, then mix it with flour, salt and a few dried herbs, if desired. Knead the dough, let it rest, and roll it into a circle. It's now ready to assemble with your sauce and favorite pizza toppings!
If you're gluten-free, you can still enjoy homemade pizza with our easy gluten-free pizza crust. For a lower-carb pizza crust option that's also gluten-free, try our cauliflower pizza crust recipe.
What are the best ingredients to put on pizza?
The best ingredients to put on pizza are the highest-quality versions of your favorite pizza toppings. Start with a homemade pizza sauce and opt for San Marzano tomatoes (the best!). No matter what cheese you use, make sure you're shredding or grating it fresh from the block (or ball, in mozzarella's case), as pre-shredded cheese contains cellulose. If you're adding any meat, vegetables or fruit (hi, pineapple!), buy the best-looking items at the store or head over to the farmers market to see what's in season. In-season produce always tastes best!
What is the secret to making a good pizza?
The secret to making a good pizza is using a pizza stone. It's the key to a perfect pizza crust: crispy on the outside and tender and chewy on the inside. Just make sure to slide the pizza stone into the oven right before you preheat it so both the oven and pizza stone can be nice and hot for the pizza. If you've been holding off on buying a pizza stone because it seems like a one-trick pony, we're here to tell you it's worth the investment for perfect homemade pizzas; plus, there are lots of pizza stone uses besides baking pizza!
