Name: Quick and Easy Grilled Pizza Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 12 oz pizza dough; 2 tsp olive oil; ⅔ cup pizza sauce; 2 cups Mozzarella cheese; toppings as desired

Imagine a delicious, crisp, and flavorful grilled pizza that's easy to make right in your own backyard. This recipe combines the traditional taste of homemade pizza with the smoky flavor of a grill. It's a quick and easy solution for any occasion, whether it's a casual family dinner or a summer cookout with friends.

Photos of Quick and Easy Grilled Pizza Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry items, there are a few you might need to pick up. Pizza dough is available in most supermarkets, but for a truly homemade experience, you could make your own. Your choice of toppings can vary greatly according to your preference, ranging from classic choices like pepperoni and bell peppers to gourmet options like sundried tomatoes and artichoke hearts. Remember, the key to a great grilled pizza is using fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Quick and Easy Grilled Pizza Ingredients

Pizza dough: This is the base of your pizza. You can find it in most supermarkets or make your own for a homemade touch.

Olive oil: Used to brush the dough before grilling. This gives the crust a nice, golden color and prevents it from sticking to the grill.

Pizza sauce: This gives your pizza its classic tomato flavor. Use a store-bought variety or make your own.

Mozzarella cheese: This gives your pizza that gooey, melty goodness. Fresh mozzarella will give the best results.

Toppings: This is where you can get creative. Use your favorite pizza toppings, such as pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.

One reader, Carlin Gutierrez says:

This quick and easy grilled pizza recipe is a game-changer! It's so simple and the results are amazing. The crust gets that perfect char and the toppings are delicious. It's a hit with my family every time. I highly recommend trying it out!

Carlin Gutierrez

Key Techniques for Grilling Pizza

How to preheat the grill: Preheat the grill to 500 degrees F before starting the cooking process.

How to roll out the pizza dough: Roll out the pizza dough to ½-inch thickness directly on the foil.

How to cook the dough on the grill: Cook the dough on the preheated grill for 4 to 5 minutes or until it begins to bubble and is lightly browned on the bottom.

How to add toppings on the grilled pizza: After flipping the dough, add pizza sauce, toppings, and cheese before closing the lid of the grill to cook for an additional 4 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the dough is cooked through.

How to cool the grilled pizza: Allow the grilled pizza to cool for 5 minutes before cutting and serving.

How To Make Quick and Easy Grilled Pizza

This grilled pizza dish adds a little smokiness to the flavor when mixed with Mozzarella cheese and pizza sauce. It’s quick and easy to make!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 8 minutes

Total: 23 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12ozpizza dough,store-bought or homemade
2tspolive oil,or as needed
⅔cuppizza sauce,store-bought or homemade
2cupsMozzarella cheese,shredded
toppings as desired

Instructions

Preheat the grill to 500 degrees F.
Prepare all topping ingredients.
Cut an 18-inch piece of non-stick foil.
Place the foil dull side up and roll out the pizza dough to ½-inch thick directly on the foil. Brush both sides of the dough with olive oil.
Transfer the foil to the preheated grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes or until the dough begins to bubble and is lightly browned on the bottom.
Using tongs, flip the dough over and add pizza sauce, toppings, and cheese. Reduce the heat to medium-high, about 400 degrees F.
Close the lid of the grill and cook for an additional 4 minutes or until cheese has melted and the dough is cooked through.
Cool for 5 minutes before cutting.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 686.25kcal
Fat: 37.73g
Saturated Fat: 21.45g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.66g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.47g
Carbohydrates: 49.37g
Fiber: 3.14g
Sugar: 3.61g
Protein: 36.47g
Cholesterol: 115.64mg
Sodium: 1590.11mg
Calcium: 836.18mg
Potassium: 339.71mg
Iron: 3.15mg
Vitamin A: 255.98µg
Vitamin C: 4.75mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Grilling Pizza

When grilling your pizza, it's important to keep a close eye on the crust. The high heat of the grill can cause the bottom to cook faster than the top. If you notice the bottom getting too brown before the cheese has melted, simply move the pizza to a cooler part of the grill and close the lid to allow the top to finish cooking without burning the crust. This will ensure a perfectly cooked, crispy crust with a fully melted and bubbly cheese topping.

Time-Saving Tips for Quick and Easy Grilled Pizza

Prep ahead: Prepare the pizza toppings and sauce in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will save time when you're ready to assemble and cook the grilled pizza.

Use store-bought dough: Save time by using pre-made pizza dough from the grocery store. It eliminates the need to make dough from scratch and speeds up the pizza-making process.

Organize toppings: Set up a toppings station with all your desired ingredients prepped and ready to go. This will streamline the assembly process and make it easier to add toppings to the grilled pizza.

Preheat and prep: Make sure the grill is preheated and ready to go before you start cooking. Also, have all your utensils and ingredients organized and within reach to expedite the grilling process.

Multi-task: While the grill is preheating, you can prepare the pizza dough and toppings. This allows you to make the most of your time and get the pizza cooking efficiently.

Substitute Ingredients For Quick and Easy Grilled Pizza Recipe

pizza dough - Substitute with naan bread: Naan bread is a great alternative for a quick grilled pizza. It's already cooked and just needs to be heated through, saving time and effort.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for grilling and it has a neutral flavor that won't overpower the other ingredients.
pizza sauce - Substitute with pesto: Pesto adds a flavorful twist to grilled pizza and can be a delicious alternative to traditional pizza sauce.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with gouda cheese: Gouda cheese melts beautifully and has a rich, creamy flavor that adds a unique touch to grilled pizza.
toppings - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto adds a savory, salty flavor and cooks quickly on the grill, making it a convenient and delicious topping option.

Best Way to Present This Grilled Pizza Recipe

Elevate the dough: Roll out the pizza dough to a perfect ½-inch thickness, ensuring it is evenly shaped and smooth in texture.
Artful sauce application: Apply the pizza sauce in a circular motion, ensuring an even distribution and leaving a small border for the crust.
Meticulous cheese placement: Carefully layer the mozzarella cheese to ensure it melts evenly and creates a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
Topping precision: Arrange the toppings with precision, ensuring each ingredient is placed thoughtfully to create a visually appealing and balanced pizza.
Garnish with finesse: Add a final touch of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavors and elevate the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Grilled Pizza

Grill: A cooking appliance used to cook food over an open flame or heat source.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot near the handle, used for gripping and lifting food.
Foil: A thin, pliable sheet of metal used for wrapping or covering food during cooking.
Pizza cutter: A sharp utensil used to slice pizzas into portions.
Olive oil: A liquid fat obtained from olives, commonly used in cooking and as a dressing.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients during food preparation.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for recipes.
Food brush: A utensil with bristles used for applying oil or sauces to food.
Pizza peel: A shovel-like tool used to slide pizzas in and out of a hot oven or grill.
Cutting board: A durable board used for cutting and preparing food.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Grilled Pizza

Allow the grilled pizza to cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled pizza slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. The pizza will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the grilled pizza:
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen grilled pizza will maintain its best quality for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated pizza, place the slices on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melted.
For frozen pizza, you can reheat it directly from the freezer:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the frozen pizza slices on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
Alternatively, you can microwave refrigerated or frozen pizza slices for a quicker option, but the crust may become slightly soft. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, depending on the number of slices and your microwave's power.

How to Reheat Leftover Grilled Pizza

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pizza on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy. This method works best if you want to reheat multiple slices at once and maintain the crispy texture of the pizza crust.
For a quick and easy option, reheat individual slices in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 30-45 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and the pizza is heated through. To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, place a glass of water in the microwave alongside the pizza. The water will absorb some of the excess moisture.
If you have a toaster oven, use it to reheat your leftover grilled pizza. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the slice directly on the rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy. This method is ideal for reheating single slices and maintaining the texture of the pizza.
For a crispy crust, reheat your pizza in a skillet on the stovetop. Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add the pizza slice. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bottom of the crust is crispy. This method works best for thin-crust pizzas and ensures a crispy bottom.
If you have a grill, you can reheat your leftover grilled pizza directly on the grates. Preheat the grill to medium heat (around 400°F or 205°C) and place the pizza slice on the grates. Close the lid and heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy. This method adds a nice smoky flavor to the pizza and maintains the original grilled taste.

Interesting Fact About Grilled Pizza

The quick and easy grilled pizza recipe is a great way to enjoy homemade pizza with a smoky flavor. It's a fun and versatile recipe that allows you to customize your toppings to your liking. Plus, grilling the pizza adds a unique charred taste that you can't achieve with a traditional oven. It's a perfect recipe for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner. Plus, it's a great way to get the whole family involved in the cooking process. So, next time you're craving pizza, consider firing up the grill and trying out this delicious recipe!

Is Making Grilled Pizza at Home Cost-Effective?

This grilled pizza recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as pizza dough, sauce, and cheese, are affordable and readily available. Additionally, the versatility of toppings allows for budget-friendly customization. With a rating of 9/10, this recipe offers great value for money. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly and satisfying meal option.

Is Grilled Pizza Healthy or Unhealthy?

The grilled pizza recipe, while quick and easy to prepare, may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of cheese (2 cups), which is high in saturated fat and calories.
Depending on the toppings chosen, the pizza may be lacking in essential nutrients like vegetables and lean proteins.
The dough is brushed with olive oil, adding extra calories and fat to the dish.

However, there are some positive aspects to this recipe:

Using a grill instead of an oven can reduce the amount of oil needed, as the high heat allows for a crispy crust without the need for excessive oil.
The recipe is customizable, allowing for the addition of healthier toppings like vegetables and lean proteins.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for a whole wheat or cauliflower pizza crust to increase fiber content and reduce refined carbohydrates.
Reduce the amount of cheese used, or choose a low-fat cheese alternative.
Load up on vegetable toppings like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and spinach to increase nutrient density.
Use a lean protein like grilled chicken or turkey sausage instead of high-fat meats like pepperoni or bacon.
Experiment with alternative sauces like pesto or a tomato-based sauce with added vegetables for a nutrient boost.

By making these simple modifications, you can transform this quick and easy grilled pizza into a healthier meal that still satisfies your cravings for a delicious, homemade pizza.

Editor's Opinion on This Grilled Pizza Recipe

This quick and easy grilled pizza recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy homemade pizza with a delicious smoky flavor. The method of grilling the pizza dough adds a unique touch, and the toppings can be customized to suit individual preferences. The simplicity of the recipe makes it perfect for a casual gathering or a weeknight dinner. The result is a crispy, flavorful pizza that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Quick and Easy Grilled Pizza Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a crispy garlic parmesan topping.

Honey Sriracha Grilled Corn: Sweet and spicy grilled corn on the cob drizzled with a honey sriracha glaze.

Balsamic Glazed Grilled Vegetables: A colorful medley of grilled vegetables coated in a tangy balsamic glaze.

Mango Avocado Salsa: A refreshing and zesty salsa made with ripe mangoes, creamy avocados, and a hint of spice.

Similar Recipes to Try Besides Grilled Pizza

Grilled Veggie Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a zesty herb dressing before threading them onto skewers and grilling until tender and slightly charred. Serve as a colorful and flavorful side dish or as a light and healthy main course.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: Whisk together a sweet and savory glaze using honey, soy sauce, and garlic, then brush it onto salmon fillets before grilling to perfection. The result is a delicious and nutritious seafood dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine ripe mango, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds to create a refreshing and satisfying dessert or snack. Let it chill in the refrigerator until set, then top with fresh fruit and shredded coconut for a tropical treat.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Grilled Pizza

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. The combination of rich cream cheese, flavorful herbs, and earthy mushrooms will leave everyone wanting more.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with this classic bruschetta. The vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and tangy balsamic vinegar on crispy, toasted bread will awaken your taste buds.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This decadent dessert is sure to impress your guests with its smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor. Pair it with fresh berries for a delightful contrast of sweetness and tartness.

Apple Crisp: Treat yourself to a warm and comforting apple crisp, featuring tender baked apples with a crispy, buttery topping. This classic dessert is a crowd-pleaser and is best served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Why trust this Quick and Easy Grilled Pizza Recipe:

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, featuring pizza dough that crisps up perfectly on the grill. The pizza sauce is a flavorful base, complemented by gooey mozzarella cheese and a variety of customizable toppings. The use of olive oil adds a touch of richness, while the grilling method infuses a delightful smokiness. With a quick cooking time and minimal prep, this grilled pizza is a convenient and delicious option for any occasion. Trust in the simplicity and satisfaction of this recipe for a memorable dining experience.

Have you tried this quick and easy grilled pizza recipe? Share your experience and any tips you might have in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

What type of grill should I use for this recipe?

You can use a gas or charcoal grill for this recipe. Just make sure it can reach a high temperature of around 500 degrees Fahrenheit for best results.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe. It's a convenient option for a quick and easy grilled pizza.

How do I know when the pizza is done cooking on the grill?

The pizza is done when the cheese has melted and the crust is cooked through. This usually takes about 4 minutes after adding the toppings and closing the lid of the grill.

Can I use different toppings for the grilled pizza?

Absolutely! You can customize the toppings to your preference. Whether it's pepperoni, vegetables, or different types of cheese, feel free to get creative with it.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it's best to enjoy the grilled pizza fresh off the grill, you can prepare the toppings and have everything ready to assemble. This can help save time when you're ready to cook.