Grilled Pizza Recipe: A Perfectly Charred Delight
Imagine the savory smell of grilled pizza wafting across your backyard, drawing in hungry neighbors craving to indulge in the heavenly aroma of fresh basil, sweet roma tomatoes, and melted cheese. Fire up your grill and get ready to explore the delicious world of grilled pizza. This is not your ordinary pizza; this is a culinary adventure that will take you on a journey from stove to grill, where you will taste the magic of homemade pizza crust that is grilled to perfection.
The time has come to step away from ordering take-out or cooking frozen pizzas in the oven. With my awesome grilled pizza recipe, you can experience the sensational taste of fresh ingredients and homemade crust in just a few simple steps.
So, gather your friends and family around for a summer barbecue or plan a cozy night at home with your loved ones. This pizza will become an instant favorite – I guarantee it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This grilled pizza recipe will make your taste buds dance with joy. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also incredibly delicious. You’ll love this recipe because it offers endless possibilities for toppings, from the classic margherita with fresh basil and tangy parmesan cheese to bolder options like BBQ chicken or veggie-loaded pizzas.
The crust is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, and it has a subtle smoky flavor from being charred on the grill. And let’s not forget about the cheese – a combination of fontina and parmesan that melts perfectly and complements any topping you choose.
Not only is this an excellent recipe for a casual get-together with friends, but it’s also perfect for a quick weeknight dinner when you’re too tired to cook complicated meals. It’s fast, easy, and delivers mouth-watering results.
You’ll love how customizable this grilled pizza is – making the perfect grilled pizza is all about experimentation! So fire up the grill, grab some dough, and let your creativity run wild. With this grilled pizza recipe, there are no limits to what you can create.
Ingredient List
Here are the fresh and flavorful ingredients for this awesome grilled pizza recipe:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup bread flour
- 1 tablespoon fast-rising yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes
- 3 roma tomatoes, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 oz grated fontina cheese
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
You can also customize your toppings with bell peppers, BBQ sauce, chicken, or any other favorite pizza toppings.
The Recipe How-To
Now it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty and actually make this awesome grilled pizza. Grab your apron, preheat your grill, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic cloves
- 4 roma tomatoes, sliced thin
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- 1 cup grated fontina cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- A small handful of fresh basil
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Grill the Pizza Crust
Get the grill heated up and ready to go. If you’re using a gas grill, heat it to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals to one side to create two temperature zones: one for searing and one for cooking.
Brush both sides of the pizza crust with olive oil. Once the grill is hot, place the crust on the grill grates over direct heat. Close the lid immediately and let it cook for about a minute. Check to see if there are any air pockets forming in the crust. If so, release them with a small fork or knife. Flip the crust over, close the lid, and cook for another minute.
Next, slide the crusts over to the cooler side of the grill so they can finish cooking evenly. It should take about two more minutes for both sides of each crust to be crispy and browned.
Step 2: Add Toppings
Grab your partially cooked pizza crusts and bring them back to your prep area. Now is when you’ll want to add your toppings! Here’s how I like to do it:
First, spoon on some minced garlic cloves onto each pizza.
Next, place thinly sliced roma tomatoes on top of garlic cloves. Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes and salt over each pizza.
Now add your grated cheese! Generously distribute fontina cheese over both pizzas followed by a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Finally, scatter a few leaves of shredded fresh basil over everything.
Step 3: Put it Back on the Grill
Take pizzas back out to your grill which has been turned down to low heat.
Place pizzas carefully onto grates.
Close lid again and let pizzas cook slowly for two or three minutes until cheese melts completely.
Remove from grill carefully and serve hot.
Now you are officially an expert on making perfect grilled pizzas! Don’t hesitate adding extra toppings to customize your own perfect pizza like “BBQ chicken,” “veggie” or “cheese.” And remember that practice makes perfect! Keep trying new recipe variations until you find the ones that work best for you.
Substitutions and Variations
Variety is the spice of life, and that’s especially true when it comes to grilled pizza. Here are some fun substitutions and variations you can try to switch up this recipe:
1. Toppings – While I list some classic pizza toppings in the recipe, feel free to swap them out for your favorites! Grilled veggies like bell peppers and eggplant make a great addition, or try some sausage or bacon for a meaty twist.
2. Cheese – I used a mix of fontina and parmesan cheeses, but you can use any cheese you have on hand. Mozzarella, gouda or goat cheese would all work well.
3. Sauce – Instead of traditional tomato sauce, I added a bit of olive oil and garlic for an herbaceous kick. However, feel free to use barbecue sauce if you want to go for a BBQ chicken pizza topping or even experiment with other sauces.
4. Crust – I make my own crust using a mix of whole wheat flour and bread flour but if you’re crunched for time, grab a store-bought dough kit that is made for grilled pizza or make it with the store bought thin crusts often also offered at supermarkets.
5. Grill Type – While I used a charcoal grill for this recipe, feel free to use a gas grill or even invest in a pizza oven if you’re serious about your grilled pizza game.
Regardless of how you decide to switch things up, remember that grilled pizza should maintain its characteristic smoky flavor and crispy texture – so get creative while maintaining these core components!
Serving and Pairing
Once you’ve finished grilling up your amazing pizza, it’s time to serve and pair it with some delicious sides and drinks.
To start, I recommend serving your grilled pizza hot off the grill while the cheese is still melty and gooey. Cut it into slices using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, making sure to include a variety of toppings on each slice.
For sides, try pairing your pizza with a fresh arugula salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette made with extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic cloves, salt, and red pepper flakes. This will provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the pizza.
If you want to have something heartier alongside your pizza, grilled veggies are always a great choice. Slice up some bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before throwing them on the grill next to the pizza for a few minutes until they’re charred and tender.
When it comes to drinks, there are plenty of options that pair well with grilled pizza. A cold beer is always a classic choice – try something light and refreshing like a pilsner or lager. If you’re looking for something non-alcoholic, fresh lemonade or iced tea go great with the bold flavors of the pizza.
And of course, don’t forget about dessert! Grilled peaches or pineapple make for a delicious and easy dessert that you can prepare right alongside your pizza. Simply slice them up and grill them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re caramelized and juicy. Top them off with some fresh basil or parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
Overall, serving and pairing your grilled pizza is all about finding balance between rich flavors and fresh ingredients, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your sides and drinks!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As a culinary explorer, I understand the benefits of planning ahead and saving time without compromising the taste. That’s why I have good news for you: this awesome grilled pizza recipe can be made ahead of time!
Once you’ve prepared your pizza dough and grilled it, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat it, reheat the pizza on a medium-low grill for 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through.
But wait, there’s more! You can also freeze your grilled pizza for future use. If you decide to freeze your pizza, wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Your frozen pizza slices will last up to two months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen slices, defrost them in the refrigerator overnight. Once defrosted, reheat them on the grill for 3-4 minutes on each side until they reach their crispy perfection.
It is essential to note that for better results when reheating or storing grilled pizza, do not add any toppings before refrigerating or freezing. Adding toppings will make it challenging to reheat or defrost evenly.
Using these make-ahead options will make your life much easier, eliminating the need to prepare a fresh one every time you crave some grilled pizza.
Tips for Perfect Results
As a seasoned culinary explorer, I know that grilled pizza can present a few challenges, but with the right techniques and tips, you can perfect your pizza game. Here are some tips that will help you achieve excellent results when grilling pizza.
Firstly, it is important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you begin cooking. Grilled pizza cooks quickly, and the last thing you want is to be scrambling around the kitchen looking for an ingredient. This will avoid a lot of stress and make the cooking process smoother.
Another important tip is to ensure that your grill is heated up to a high temperature before placing your pizza on it. The high heat ensures that your crust cooks fast and evenly. Therefore, preheat your grill for at least 10-15 minutes before placing the pizza on it.
In addition to this, using fresh dough yields better results than using store-bought dough. Although store-bought dough works great, homemade dough has a distinct flavor that takes the grilled pizza to the next level. For good results, we recommend trying our awesome grilled pizza recipe with homemade dough.
Once you place your pizza crust onto the hot grill, resist the urge to touch it or move it around frequently. This can lead to tearing of the crust or uneven cooking. Allow the crust to cook for at least 2-3 minutes on one side before flipping over to the other side.
Finally, don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings and sauces! Grilled pizza offers endless flavor possibilities. Whether you want to go for classic marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese or BBQ sauce with onions and chicken, the choice is yours.
By following these tips, you can create perfect grilled pizzas as every time!
FAQ
As much as I love this pizza recipe, I know that some of you may have questions or concerns about it. With that in mind, I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to address any doubts you may have. So, let’s jump in and get those questions answered!
How does Bobby Flay grill pizza?
Preparing grilled pizza crusts is an art. The first step is rolling out the dough into thin and even crusts. Next, the crusts are brushed with canola oil, giving them a golden sheen. The crusts are then deftly transferred onto a pizza peel, gently placed on the grill with the oiled side down. Within a minute, the crusts are perfectly charred and ready to be flipped over. After a quick cooking time, the crusts are slid back onto the peels, ready to be adorned with delicious toppings.
Is it better to grill or bake pizza?
Making pizza on a grill might produce a distinct flavor, but it is nearly identical in quality to one made in the oven. A pizza stone inside the oven or grill can imitate a wood-fired brick oven’s cooking environment, which is the optimal way to cook pizza.
How do you make pizza taste like a restaurant?
To make a pizza that everyone will enjoy, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Firstly, choosing the right flour is crucial to ensure that your crust has the perfect texture and flavor. Additionally, seasoning your dough will add an extra kick to your base, making it even more delicious.
When it comes to toppings, using pre-shredded cheese is a no-go. Instead, shred your own cheese to ensure that it melts evenly and stays gooey. Likewise, the sauce should be kept simple so that the flavors of the other toppings can shine through. Opt for fresh ingredients rather than canned or processed options for maximum flavor.
To ensure your pizza crust has that perfect golden-brown color and crispness, preheat your pan before adding your dough. Once you’ve added your toppings, give it lots of heat to make sure everything is cooked through and the cheese is melted to perfection. By following these tips, you’ll make a pizza that will leave your taste buds singing!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Awesome Grilled Pizza Recipe is perfect for anyone who loves their pizza with a bit of smokiness and crispness. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, this recipe makes an easy and delicious homemade pizza that you can enjoy with your loved ones in the comfort of your backyard. Plus, with the various substitutions and variations, you can personalize your pizza to your liking, whether it be with BBQ chicken, veggie toppings or even plain cheese!
Lastly, a successful grilled pizza requires patience and attention to detail. One must make sure to have all the necessary tools such as a pizza stone or grill, monitor the temperature carefully and handle the dough gently. But don’t be discouraged! With practice and the tips provided in this article, you’ll be able to master the art of grilled pizza making in no time.
So fire up that grill or heat up that oven, gather your friends and family around, and delve into what could possibly be the best grilled pizza you’ve ever tasted!
Awesome Grilled Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups bread flour
- 1 tablespoon whole wheat flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon instant fast rising yeast
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Toppings
- 1/3 cup oil
- 4 minced garlic cloves
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 1 1/2 lbs roma tomatoes
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded italian fontina
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- fresh basil
Instructions
- IN food processor, blend first five ingredients. Mix oil and water and with processor running, drizzle until dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.( May not take full amount, dough should be sticky).
- Place dough in oiled bowl covered in plastic wrap and leave for 2 hours.
- Gently pat and divide into four balls. Cover with plastic wrap on floured parchment paper and let rest for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, core, seed, and chop tomatoes then place in colonder with 3/4 Tsp of salt. Let drain 20 minutes.
- Heat oil in saucepan with garlic and red pepper until simmering then remove from heat and set aside.
- Mix the two cheeses in bowl.
- Roll out dough to 9 by 9" circles. Place on floured sheetpan with parchment between to take to grill.
- Grill 2-4 minutes until browned on one side. Put grilled side up and bring back inside. Brush liberally with oil mixture, top with cheese and tomatoes, and put it back on the grill,closed,(raw side down) until cheese it melted.
- Sprinkle with fresh basil>.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Mishra Vikas is a digital nomad who loves to explore the world and learn about its cultures. As a programmer, backpacker, and cook, he enjoys sharing his adventures and cooking up delectable dishes. Writing about his experiences, creating tasty recipes, and discovering new places are some of his favorite activities. He’s an avid traveler and passionate chef, always on the lookout for an exciting new journey.