Backyard barbecues are synonymous with good times and mouthwatering food. One way to elevate your outdoor grilling experience is by making delicious grilled pizza. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of creating easy and flavorful grilled pizzas right in your own backyard. From selecting the perfect dough to choosing mouthwatering toppings, you'll discover how to achieve a crispy crust and delectable flavors that will impress your family and friends.
The foundation of any great pizza is the dough. Opt for a pre-made pizza dough from your local grocery store for convenience. Alternatively, you can prepare your own dough using a simple recipe that combines flour, yeast, water, salt, and olive oil. Allow the dough to rise and rest for the recommended time to develop a light and airy texture. Consider experimenting with different types of dough, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, to cater to various dietary preferences.
Once the grill is preheated, it's time to roll and shape the pizza dough. On a floured surface, use a rolling pin or your hands to stretch the dough into your desired shape and thickness. Traditional round pizzas are popular, but you can also experiment with rectangular or oval shapes. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch, as thinner dough will cook faster but may be more challenging to handle.
Before placing the dough on the grill, it's essential to prepare the toppings and assemble the pizza. Start with a thin layer of your favorite pizza sauce, such as marinara or pesto. Add a generous amount of shredded mozzarella or your preferred cheese as the base. From there, let your creativity shine by adding toppings such as sliced tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives, and cooked meats like sausage or pepperoni. Finish off with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of dried herbs like oregano or basil.
With the pizza prepped, it's time to transfer it onto the grill. Gently slide the dough onto the preheated grill grates, placing it directly over the direct heat zone. Close the lid and cook for approximately 2-4 minutes, or until the crust develops grill marks and becomes firm. Keep a close eye on the dough to prevent burning. Once the crust is ready, use a spatula or tongs to flip the dough onto the indirect heat zone.
Now that the crust is partially cooked, it's time to add the toppings. Quickly layer on the remaining sauce, cheese, and any additional toppings. Close the lid and continue grilling for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese melts, and the toppings are heated through. The residual heat from the grill will finish cooking the toppings while ensuring the crust remains crispy. Keep an eye on the pizza to prevent excessive browning.
Once the pizza is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the grill