Bacon

Bacon's smoky, salty crunch secures the fifth spot globally, appearing on 20% of all pizza orders—a share that has elevated 'bacon everything' from internet meme to permanent menu fixture. Its unmatched textural contrast sets it apart: while ham offers a milder sweetness, bacon delivers intense smokiness and crispy crunch that cuts through rich cheese, outperforming Extra Cheese (#6) in flavor complexity. Each strip undergoes a 30% weight loss during cooking, concentrating savory umami, and when added post-bake, bacon retains 40% more crispness than oven-baked versions. With 8 grams of protein per serving, it provides a meaty depth that makes it a top choice for crunch and bold flavor.