These brands have risen above the competition.
The pandemic’s fast-food craze has made it appear that pizza is the top food Americans crave during difficult times. In 2020, several national pizza chains achieved some of their highest-ever sales figures, and while many fast-food chains were closing locations, pizza brands continued to expand.
But not all pizza joints are created equal: some are known for their excellent pies, while others are known for their quick service or low prices. Nevertheless, these companies have demonstrated superiority in the fiercely competitive stage of the best national pizza. The following are the most popular fast-food pizzas that people are currently ordering.
1. Papa Murphy’s Pizza
What a customer favorite! America’s largest take-and-bake chain was recently named the best pizza restaurant regarding trust, cleanliness, and customer loyalty. Papa Murphy’s has over 1,500 locations in dozens of states and, unlike most chains, sells unbaked pies so customers can enjoy a fresh-from-the-oven experience in their kitchens.
2. Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut is the most accessible fast-food pizza in the United States due to its sheer number of locations. By the end of 2020, the chain had more than 17,000 domestic locations spread across all 50 states, implying that wherever you are in the country, you are only a stone’s throw away from their famously craveable pies. Not to be outdone in the creative menu department, Pizza Hut launched the first national chain pizza with plant-based meat topping last year and kicked off 2021 with a new Detroit-style pie that will be permanently added to menus nationwide.
3. Domino’s
Domino’s, the undisputed leader in terms of sales, requires no introduction. It was the top-grossing pizza chain in the United States in 2019, and its dominance continued during the pandemic. The company’s most recent earnings report showed a 17.5% increase in sales, the highest same-store sales the brand has seen since it began publicly reporting earnings in 2004. For the first time in eight years, Domino’s added two new pizzas—chicken taco pizza and cheeseburger pizza—and boldly announced that it is ready for absolute world dominance.
4. Papa John’s
Last year, another fast-food chain had a lot to celebrate: Papa John’s. Its revenue and international and domestic sales increased by double digits in the third quarter, aided by clever product launches such as the new Papadias sandwiches and the Shaq-a-Roni pizza. In addition, let’s not forget that Papa John’s now serves a stuffed crust nationwide for those who like their pizza with a side of whimsy.
5. Mellow Mushroom
With its 200 locations, Mellow Mushroom may not be a major player on the national pizza scene. But, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in crave-ability. According to consumer data collected by research firm Technomic in the second half of last year, this pizza chain makes the second most craveable pizza in the country! According to the data, customers are drawn to their unique gourmet toppings, such as jerk marinated pork and truffle oil. And, to be honest, their crust is also quite lovely.
6. Jet’s Pizza
Jet’s, a chain serving Detroit-style pizza with a dreamy, thick, crunchy crust, was named the most craveable in the same Technomic survey. The crust is the best part, and they make pizzas with extra crust specifically for you. Jet’s can expect to become more popular than ever, with Detroit-style pizza being the fastest-growing pizza trend in the country.
7. Little Caesars
Little Caesars may not get as much attention as some other national chains, but this good ol’ pizza chain ranks third among national pizza chains in terms of location and earnings. In addition, the use of self-service and heated Pizza Portals allows for a simple carry-out experience, allowing the brand to remain competitive during the pandemic.
8. MOD Pizza
This mid-sized pizza chain was established in 2008 and began slowly. However, due to its reputation for excellent customer service and high-quality products, the chain has quickly expanded to nearly 500 locations. MOD Pizza specializes in thin-crust pizza and also offers gluten-free crust and vegan toppings, which appeal to a growing number of pizza fans.
Learn more: 6 Most Expensive Pizzas at Popular Fast-Food Chains