DiGiorno is offering a Thanksgiving pizza that includes all the traditional Thanksgiving fixings like green beans, gravy, cheese, onions, cranberries, and turkey on top of a Detroit-style pizza crust. Priced at $10, this frozen pie is exclusively available at Kroger stores through the end of November. The launch of this unique pizza sparked controversy in 2023 as people debated the appropriateness of these toppings on a pizza. Despite the backlash, DiGiorno remained confident in its creation, citing a desire to bring a fresh approach to traditional holiday meals.
Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager taste-tested the Thanksgiving pizza live on the Today Show, with Hager expressing uncertainty about the combination of Thanksgiving and pizza. However, DiGiorno’s senior brand manager, Kimberly Holowiak, defended the decision to release the Thanksgiving pizza, stating that the brand is always looking for innovative ways to incorporate the taste of DiGiorno into festivities. This pizza is meant to provide a unique and bold way to enjoy a full Thanksgiving spread in a single bite, catering to various celebrations from Friendsgiving parties to family dinners.
Over the years, there has been a trend of Thanksgiving-themed foods hitting the market. Baskin-Robbins introduced an ice cream flavor called Turkey Day Fixin’s, and Pringles had a limited edition Thanksgiving-inspired potato chip flavor. These products have been met with mixed reactions, similar to DiGiorno’s Thanksgiving pizza. Despite the controversy, these unique flavors and combinations highlight a shift in consumer preferences and a willingness to explore new tastes and culinary experiences during the holiday season.
A survey in 2019 found that a significant percentage of Americans were open to alternative main courses for Thanksgiving, with 64% willing to switch out turkey. Reasons cited included the time-consuming preparation and cooking required for the traditional meal, as well as the desire to reduce stress associated with hosting Thanksgiving gatherings. This data reflects a changing landscape in how individuals approach holiday meals, seeking convenience, variety, and new flavors. The introduction of non-traditional Thanksgiving foods like the Thanksgiving pizza from DiGiorno aligns with this evolving trend.
The Thanksgiving pizza from DiGiorno is part of a broader movement in the food industry to offer innovative and unconventional flavors and combinations to consumers. Brands are constantly experimenting with unique products to appeal to changing tastes and preferences, especially during holiday seasons like Thanksgiving. While traditional foods will always have a place on the dining table, the introduction of new and unexpected dishes adds excitement and variety to celebrations. The Thanksgiving pizza serves as an example of how food brands are embracing creativity and pushing boundaries in culinary creations.
In conclusion, the DiGiorno Thanksgiving pizza represents a fresh and inventive take on the traditional Thanksgiving meal. While initially met with controversy, this unique pizza offers a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy classic Thanksgiving dishes in a single serving. As consumer preferences evolve and people seek new culinary experiences, products like the Thanksgiving pizza cater to the demand for creativity and variety in holiday dining. Whether it’s a Friendsgiving party or a family gathering, the Thanksgiving pizza provides a fun and unconventional option for those looking to spice up their Turkey Day celebrations.
