Grilled Pizza

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilling pizza adds a smoky char to the crust that you can’t get with a conventional oven. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy pizza with the added bonus of a crispy, flavorful crust. The combination of tangy tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and your choice of toppings makes each slice irresistibly delicious. Plus, grilling your pizza allows for endless customization, so you can make it exactly the way you want. Perfect for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner, grilled pizza is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or marinara (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups cheese: freshly shredded or torn mozzarella, grated Parmesan (more or less to taste)
• Optional toppings such as pepperoni or sausage, thinly sliced vegetables, herbs, etc.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are hot and spread evenly.
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into your desired shape and size. For a more rustic look, you can leave it a bit uneven.
3. Lightly brush one side of the dough with olive oil to prevent it from sticking to the grill.
4. Place the dough on the preheated grill, oil-side down. Grill for about 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom has nice grill marks and the dough starts to puff up.
5. Carefully flip the dough over using tongs or a spatula, and brush the grilled side with olive oil.
6. Quickly spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the grilled side, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Add your favorite toppings, such as pepperoni, sausage, or vegetables.
7. Close the grill lid and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is crispy.
8. Remove the pizza from the grill and let it cool for a minute before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-4
• Total Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on the grill’s heat and the thickness of your crust)

Variations

• Try adding fresh basil leaves after grilling for a burst of flavor.
• Use a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, gouda, or goat cheese, for a unique twist on your pizza.
• For a vegetarian pizza, top with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini.
• If you’re a fan of spice, drizzle the pizza with chili oil or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top.
• Switch out tomato sauce for pesto for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Grilled pizza is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the pizza under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp up the crust again. Alternatively, you can heat it on a skillet for a few minutes until the crust is crispy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for grilled pizza?

Yes! Store-bought pizza dough is a great shortcut if you’re short on time. Just make sure to roll it out to your desired thickness.

Do I need to preheat the grill before cooking the pizza?

Yes, preheating the grill is essential to getting a crispy crust and avoiding sticking. Aim for medium-high heat.

How long does it take to grill pizza?

It typically takes about 5-7 minutes total, with 2-3 minutes on the first side and 3-4 minutes after flipping the dough and adding the toppings.

Can I use a pizza stone on the grill?

Yes, you can use a pizza stone on the grill. Just preheat it with the grill, then place the pizza on the stone to cook. This helps ensure an evenly cooked crust.

Can I make grilled pizza ahead of time?

Grilled pizza is best served immediately, but you can prepare the toppings in advance and roll out the dough to speed up the process when you’re ready to cook.

Can I use other types of cheese besides mozzarella?

Yes, you can use a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, gouda, or provolone. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well.

Can I grill a frozen pizza?

While it’s not ideal to grill frozen pizza as it may not cook evenly, you can thaw it slightly and grill it, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.

What toppings work best for grilled pizza?

Popular grilled pizza toppings include pepperoni, sausage, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives, and fresh herbs like basil.

How do I prevent the pizza dough from sticking to the grill?

Brush one side of the dough with olive oil before placing it on the grill. This helps prevent sticking and gives the crust a beautiful golden finish.

Can I use a gas grill for grilled pizza?

Yes, a gas grill works perfectly fine for grilling pizza. Just make sure it’s preheated to medium-high heat before you start cooking.

Conclusion

Grilled pizza is an easy and flavorful way to enjoy a homemade pizza with a crispy, smoky crust. With just a few ingredients and your grill, you can create a customizable pizza that everyone will love. From the fresh tomato sauce and gooey cheese to your choice of delicious toppings, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your cooking rotation. So fire up the grill, get creative with your toppings, and enjoy a perfect slice of pizza straight from the grill!

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