Grilling pizza creates a crispy, flavorful crust that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings. This method delivers a delicious homemade pizza in less than 30 minutes.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
• Olive oil
• Your choice of sauce (e.g., marinara, pesto)
• Assorted toppings (e.g., pepperoni, ham, sausage, chicken, caramelized onions, roasted red and green peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, squash, eggplant, sun-dried tomatoes, pepperoncini, pineapple, figs)
• Cheese (e.g., mozzarella, parmesan)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough into small, thin rounds, approximately 6 to 8 inches in diameter. This size is easier to handle on the grill.
2. Oil the Dough: Lightly brush both sides of each dough round with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to high heat and lightly spray the grates with cooking spray.
4. Grill the Dough: Place the dough rounds directly onto the grill grates. Grill for 4 to 6 minutes on one side until grill marks appear and the crust is firm.
5. Add Toppings: Flip the crusts over and quickly add your chosen sauce, toppings, and cheese to the grilled side.
6. Finish Grilling: Close the grill lid and cook for another 4 to 6 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the toppings to heat through.
7. Serve: Remove the pizzas from the grill and let them cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 239
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4.5g
• Cholesterol: 22mg
• Sodium: 460mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 27g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 10g

Benefits of Grilling Pizza

One of the biggest advantages of grilling pizza is the crispy and charred crust that forms when exposed to direct heat. Unlike oven baking, grilling gives the dough an authentic wood-fired oven effect, adding a subtle smoky flavor that is hard to replicate. The high heat of a grill cooks the crust quickly, resulting in a perfect balance between crispiness and a chewy texture. Grilled pizza also eliminates the need for specialized pizza ovens. Most people already have a backyard grill, making it accessible for anyone who wants to try this cooking method. It also reduces kitchen heat, which is particularly beneficial during the warmer months.

Customization and Flavor Variety

Another major advantage of grilled pizza is its versatility. From classic margherita and pepperoni to gourmet options with prosciutto, arugula, and fig, the topping combinations are endless. Using a grill allows home cooks to experiment with bold flavors and seasonal ingredients. The quick cooking time also means you can make multiple small pizzas in one grilling session, catering to everyone’s preferences. Grilled pizza is also an excellent opportunity to use leftovers creatively. Vegetables from a previous meal, cooked meats, and even unconventional ingredients like fruit can become innovative toppings. Pairing different sauces such as barbecue, pesto, or Alfredo with complementary cheeses can further enhance the taste.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Pizza

To achieve a perfectly grilled pizza, a few key considerations are essential. Maintaining the right grill temperature ensures that the crust cooks evenly without burning. It’s generally recommended to keep the grill at a medium-high heat, around 450°F to 500°F. Using direct and indirect heat zones is another useful technique. Start by grilling the dough directly over the flames to develop those iconic grill marks and a crunchy base. Once flipped, move the pizza to the indirect heat side to allow the cheese to melt and toppings to warm through without overcooking the crust. Choosing the right dough thickness is also critical. A thinner dough works best for grilling as it cooks faster and crisps up nicely. Heavier, thicker doughs may not cook through properly before the exterior burns.

Enhancing the Experience with Unique Toppings

Grilled pizza provides an opportunity to get creative with toppings. Consider using seasonal vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for a vibrant and nutritious meal. Fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, and oregano add a fragrant element, while specialty cheeses such as burrata, gorgonzola, or smoked gouda bring a distinctive richness. For meat lovers, grilled chicken, prosciutto, or Italian sausage offer robust flavors that complement the smoky crust. Alternatively, vegetarians can enjoy a combination of roasted vegetables, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy ricotta cheese. For an indulgent twist, drizzle a bit of honey over a prosciutto and fig pizza, adding a sweet contrast to the savory toppings.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Grilled pizza pairs exceptionally well with fresh, summery sides. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can provide a light and refreshing contrast. Caprese salad, with its fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes, also complements the pizza’s flavors beautifully. For drinks, consider serving crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines provide a clean and zesty taste that balances the smoky and cheesy flavors of the pizza. If you prefer beer, a cold lager or wheat beer works wonderfully to cleanse the palate between bites. Dessert can also follow the grilling theme. Grilled peaches or pineapple served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream make for a delightful and easy sweet treat.

Troubleshooting Common Grilling Issues

Grilling pizza can be intimidating for first-timers, but with practice, it becomes a straightforward process. One common issue is dough sticking to the grates. To prevent this, ensure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the dough. Brushing both sides of the dough with olive oil also helps create a non-stick surface. Another challenge is burning the crust before the cheese melts. To solve this, try using indirect heat for the final cooking stage. Closing the grill lid also traps the heat, allowing the cheese to melt faster.

Conclusion

Grilled pizza is an exceptional way to bring people together while enjoying a delicious meal with minimal effort. Its smoky flavor, crispy crust, and endless topping possibilities make it a perfect choice for summer gatherings or relaxed family dinners. Whether you prefer classic flavors or enjoy experimenting with gourmet combinations, grilling pizza offers a culinary adventure that everyone can appreciate. With practice, you’ll soon master the art of making perfect grilled pizzas and impress your family and friends with your outdoor cooking skills. This cooking method also brings an element of fun and creativity, making it a perfect activity for family gatherings, outdoor parties, or casual weeknight dinners.