10 Unique Ideas For Grilling Pizza

If you’re tired of the same old pepperoni and cheese pizza, it’s time to switch up your grilling game. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 10 unique ideas for grilling pizza. From savory combinations like pesto and goat cheese, to sweet surprises like Nutella and strawberries, you’ll be amazed at the endless possibilities. So fire up that grill and get ready to take your pizza-making skills to a whole new level. Get ready for a pizza party like no other!

Pizza on the Grill

Grilling pizza is a fantastic way to bring a unique and delicious twist to your favorite comfort food. Not only does grilling impart a smoky and charred flavor to the pizza, but it also gives it a delightful crispy crust. Whether you prefer classic Margherita, tangy BBQ chicken, or a medley of grilled vegetables, there is a grilled pizza recipe for everyone to enjoy. In this article, we will explore the benefits of grilling pizza and provide some helpful tips to ensure your grilling experience is a success.

Benefits of Grilling Pizza

Grilling pizza offers numerous benefits that contribute to a truly amazing culinary experience. First and foremost, grilling allows the pizza dough to cook quickly over high heat, resulting in a perfectly crispy crust. The heat from the grill also creates a delightful smoky flavor in the crust, enhancing the overall taste of the pizza. Moreover, grilling allows you to experiment with a variety of toppings, from traditional to more adventurous combinations, making each pizza uniquely delicious. Another advantage of grilling pizza is that it can be a fun and interactive cooking activity, perfect for gatherings or family nights. Finally, grilling pizza is a great way to enjoy the outdoors while savoring a mouthwatering slice of your favorite pie.

Tips for Grilling Pizza

Grilling pizza may seem intimidating at first, but with a few simple tips, you’ll be able to master this technique and create pizzas that will impress your friends and family. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

1. Preheat the grill: Before placing the pizza on the grill, ensure that it is preheated to the appropriate temperature. This will help cook the pizza evenly and prevent it from sticking to the grates.

2. Create a two-zone fire: For charcoal grills, arrange the coals on one side, creating a hot direct heat zone and a cooler indirect zone. Gas grills can achieve the same effect by turning on only one or two burners.

3. Use a pizza stone or grill grates: To prevent the dough from falling through the grates or sticking, use a pizza stone or specialized grill grates. These accessories distribute heat evenly and provide a sturdy surface for grilling your pizza.

4. Prepare the dough: Roll out your pizza dough to the desired thickness, keeping in mind that thin crusts tend to cook more quickly on the grill. Brush both sides of the dough with olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.

5. Precook the toppings: To ensure that your toppings are cooked to perfection, precook them before assembling the pizza. This step will prevent your crust from becoming soggy and allow the flavors to meld together deliciously.

6. Be mindful of timing: Keep a close eye on your pizza while it grills, as the cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the crust, toppings, and grill temperature. Avoid burning the crust by rotating the pizza and adjusting the heat as needed.

With these tips in mind, you are ready to embark on a grilling adventure and create mouthwatering pizzas that will rival even the best pizzerias.

Grilled Margherita Pizza

The classic Margherita pizza is a true Italian masterpiece that combines the simplicity of fresh ingredients with the rich and tangy flavors of tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Grilling this iconic pizza gives it an irresistible smoky flavor and a charred crust that elevates it to new heights. Here is a traditional Margherita pizza recipe that you can easily recreate on your grill.

Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:

• Pizza dough
• Tomato sauce
• Mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
• Fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, making sure not to make it too thin to avoid burning.
3. Brush both sides of the dough with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Place the dough on the grill and cook for a few minutes on each side until it develops grill marks and starts to crisp up.
5. Remove the dough from the grill and spread tomato sauce evenly over one side.
6. Layer the mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce, ensuring ample coverage.
7. Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves and season with salt and pepper.
8. Return the pizza to the grill, cover, and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is crispy and golden.
9. Remove the pizza from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Tips for Grilling Margherita Pizza

• To achieve a perfectly crispy crust, make sure to preheat the grill and cook the dough over direct heat for a short period before adding the toppings.
• Opt for fresh mozzarella cheese, as it melts beautifully and lends a creamy texture to the pizza.
• Experiment with different varieties of tomatoes, such as heirloom or cherry tomatoes, to add a unique twist to your Margherita pizza.
• Enhance the flavors of your pizza by drizzling some balsamic glaze or sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.

By following these tips and embracing the classic Margherita pizza recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious and authentic Italian experience right in your backyard.

California BBQ Chicken Pizza

If you’re looking to add a touch of California sunshine to your pizza, then California BBQ chicken pizza is the way to go. This delightful combination of barbecue sauce, grilled chicken, red onions, and cilantro brings a burst of flavor to your taste buds. Grilling the pizza adds a tantalizing smokiness that complements the tangy barbecue sauce perfectly. Let’s dive into the recipe and grilling tips for creating a mouthwatering California BBQ chicken pizza.

Recipe for California BBQ Chicken Pizza

Ingredients:

• Pizza dough
• Barbecue sauce
• Grilled chicken breast, diced
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, ensuring it is evenly shaped.
3. Brush both sides of the dough with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Place the dough on the grill and cook for a few minutes on each side until it becomes slightly crispy.
5. Remove the dough from the grill and spread barbecue sauce over one side.
6. Layer the diced grilled chicken on top of the sauce, followed by the sliced red onions and fresh cilantro leaves.
7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the toppings.
8. Return the pizza to the grill, cover, and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
9. Remove the pizza from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Grilling Tips for BBQ Chicken Pizza

• Marinating the chicken before grilling can add an extra layer of flavor. Consider using a marinade with ingredients like garlic, lime juice, and chili powder.
• For a smokier taste, use wood chips or chunks on the grill to infuse the chicken with a delicious smoky flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add some sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the pizza toppings.
• Drizzle some ranch dressing or sprinkle crumbled blue cheese over the finished pizza to enhance the overall flavor profile.

With these tips in your culinary arsenal, you’ll be able to enjoy the vibrant flavors of California BBQ chicken pizza while savoring the smokiness that grilling adds to the dish.

Grilled Vegetable Pizza

For the veggie lovers out there, grilled vegetable pizza is a delightful and healthy option that bursts with colors, flavors, and nutrients. Grilling the vegetables before adding them to the pizza enhances their natural sweetness and provides a delicious charred taste. Combined with an array of herbs and a generous sprinkling of cheese, this grilled pizza will become a new favorite in your household. Let’s explore the recipe and tips for creating a scrumptious grilled vegetable pizza.

Recipe for Grilled Vegetable Pizza

Ingredients:

• Pizza dough
• Olive oil
• Tomato sauce or pesto
• Assorted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms, etc.)
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh herbs (basil, thyme, rosemary, etc.)
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Toss the mixed vegetables in olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the vegetables until they become tender and obtain distinct grill marks.
4. Remove the vegetables from the grill and let them cool slightly.
5. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, ensuring it is evenly shaped.
6. Brush both sides of the dough with olive oil to prevent sticking.
7. Place the dough on the grill and cook for a few minutes on each side until it becomes slightly crispy.
8. Remove the dough from the grill and spread tomato sauce or pesto over one side.
9. Arrange the grilled vegetables on top of the sauce, followed by the sliced red onions and fresh herbs.
10. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the toppings.
11. Return the pizza to the grill, cover, and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
12. Remove the pizza from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Tips for Grilling Vegetable Pizza

• Experiment with different combinations of vegetables to create exciting flavors and textures. Grilling intensifies the flavors, so consider including vegetables such as asparagus, artichokes, or even grilled corn kernels.
• Adding crumbled feta or goat cheese to the pizza can provide a tangy and creamy element that pairs well with the grilled vegetables.
• Drizzle some balsamic glaze or sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the finished pizza for an extra burst of flavor.
• For an added protein boost, grill some tofu or tempeh alongside the vegetables and incorporate them into the pizza toppings.

With these tips at your disposal, you’ll be able to create a vibrant and nutritious grilled vegetable pizza that will satisfy both your cravings and your desire for a healthy meal.

Grilled Hawaiian Pizza

Hawaiian pizza has long been a beloved classic, with its combination of juicy ham, sweet pineapple, and gooey cheese. When the pizza is grilled, the pineapple takes on a delightful caramelized flavor that pairs perfectly with the smokiness of the grill. If you are a fan of this tropical twist on a traditional pizza, let’s explore a traditional recipe for grilled Hawaiian pizza, along with some helpful grilling tips.

Traditional Hawaiian Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:

• Pizza dough
• Tomato sauce
• Ham, sliced or diced
• Pineapple chunks
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, ensuring it remains sturdy enough to support the toppings.
3. Brush both sides of the dough with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Place the dough on the grill and cook for a few minutes on each side until it becomes slightly crispy.
5. Remove the dough from the grill and spread tomato sauce evenly over one side.
6. Layer the ham and pineapple chunks on top of the sauce.
7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the toppings.
8. Return the pizza to the grill, cover, and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
9. Remove the pizza from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Grilling Tips for Hawaiian Pizza

• If you prefer a smokier flavor, consider grilling the pineapple chunks briefly before adding them to the pizza. This step will intensify the natural sweetness of the pineapple and create a beautiful caramelization.
• For a touch of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce over the pizza before serving.
• Experiment with different types of ham, such as smoked ham or prosciutto, to add unique flavor profiles to your pizza.
• Add some thinly sliced red onions or bell peppers to the pizza toppings to add a hint of crunch and additional flavor.

By incorporating these grilling tips into your recipe, you can enjoy a taste of the tropics at your next backyard BBQ or pizza night.

Grilled Pepperoni Pizza

Pepperoni pizza is a timeless classic loved by many. Grilling this beloved pizza creates a crispy yet chewy crust with a delicious smoky undertone. The heat from the grill imparts a slight char to the pepperoni slices, intensifying the flavor and giving them an irresistible crispness. Let’s explore a classic pepperoni pizza recipe and discover some helpful tips for grilling it to perfection.

Classic Pepperoni Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:

• Pizza dough
• Tomato sauce
• Pepperoni slices
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Dried oregano
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, ensuring it remains robust enough to hold the toppings.
3. Brush both sides of the dough with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Place the dough on the grill and cook for a few minutes on each side until it becomes slightly crispy.
5. Remove the dough from the grill and spread tomato sauce evenly over one side.
6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
7. Arrange the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese, ensuring ample coverage.
8. Sprinkle dried oregano over the pepperoni.
9. Return the pizza to the grill, cover, and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
10. Remove the pizza from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Tips for Grilling Pepperoni Pizza

• Consider using different varieties of pepperoni, such as spicy or double-smoked, to add an extra kick of flavor to your pizza.
• For a healthier option, use turkey pepperoni or vegetable pepperoni instead.
• Add some sliced black olives, diced bell peppers, or red chili flakes to the pizza toppings to create a more dynamic and flavorful experience.
• Garnish the finished pizza with fresh basil leaves or arugula to impart a vibrant freshness.

By following these tips, you can create a delectable grilled pepperoni pizza that will satisfy your cravings for a classic and timeless favorite.

Grilled BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza

Combining the finger-licking goodness of BBQ pulled pork with the cheesy delight of pizza yields an irresistible feast for the taste buds. The smokiness of the grilled pork, the tangy barbecue sauce, and the gooey cheese make for a winning combination. By grilling this pizza, you enhance the flavors of the pork and create a crust that perfectly complements the rich and savory toppings. Let’s explore a recipe for BBQ pulled pork pizza and some essential grilling tips to ensure a mouthwatering result.

Recipe for BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza

Ingredients:

• Pizza dough
• BBQ sauce
• BBQ pulled pork
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, ensuring it remains sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
3. Brush both sides of the dough with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Place the dough on the grill and cook for a few minutes on each side until it becomes slightly crispy.
5. Remove the dough from the grill and spread BBQ sauce evenly over one side.
6. Layer the BBQ pulled pork on top of the sauce, followed by the sliced red onions and shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves over the toppings.
8. Return the pizza to the grill, cover, and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
9. Remove the pizza from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Grilling Tips for BBQ Pulled Pork Pizza

• When grilling the pork, marinate it overnight to infuse it with flavor. Utilize a marinade that combines elements such as brown sugar, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and spices to create a succulent and tender result.
• To achieve a smokier flavor, try using wood chips or chunks on the grill.
• Experiment with different types of BBQ sauces, such as tangy Kansas City-style or spicy Carolina-style, to customize your pizza to suit your taste preferences.
• Incorporate other toppings such as grilled corn kernels, thinly sliced jalapeños, or shredded cheddar cheese to enhance the flavor profile and add some delicious variety.

By following these grilling tips, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a BBQ pulled pork pizza that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Grilled Mediterranean Pizza

Transport yourself to the shores of the Mediterranean with a grilled Mediterranean pizza that embraces the delightful flavors of the region. This pizza bursts with the freshness of sun-ripened tomatoes, earthy olives, aromatic basil, and tangy feta cheese. Grilling the pizza brings out the flavors of each ingredient and adds a unique smokiness that complements the Mediterranean-inspired toppings. Let’s delve into a recipe for Mediterranean pizza and some essential grilling tips.

Recipe for Mediterranean Pizza

Ingredients:

• Pizza dough
• Tomato sauce
• Sun-dried tomatoes, soaked in oil and chopped
• Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• Fresh basil leaves, torn
• Feta cheese, crumbled
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, ensuring it remains sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
3. Brush both sides of the dough with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Place the dough on the grill and cook for a few minutes on each side until it becomes slightly crispy.
5. Remove the dough from the grill and spread tomato sauce evenly over one side.
6. Sprinkle the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives over the sauce.
7. Crumble the feta cheese on top of the toppings.
8. Sprinkle torn basil leaves over the pizza and season with salt and pepper.
9. Return the pizza to the grill, cover, and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
10. Remove the pizza from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Tips for Grilling Mediterranean Pizza

• For an added depth of flavor, brush the pizza dough with some of the oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes before placing it on the grill.
• Consider adding some thinly sliced red onions or roasted garlic cloves to the pizza toppings for additional complexity.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano or dried thyme, to enhance the Mediterranean flavors in your pizza.
• Drizzle some balsamic glaze or sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over the finished pizza to elevate the taste profile.

By incorporating these tips into your grilling routine, you can experience the vibrant and refreshing flavors of the Mediterranean in the comfort of your own home.

Grilled Dessert Pizza

Why limit the joy of grilling to savory pizzas when you can delight your taste buds with a sweet and decadent grilled dessert pizza? Grilling provides a unique twist to a traditional dessert pizza, infusing it with smoky flavors and creating a delightful contrast between the warm, crispy crust and the creamy, indulgent toppings. Let’s explore a sweet dessert pizza recipe along with some essential grilling tips to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Sweet Dessert Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:

• Pizza dough
• Nutella or chocolate spread
• Fresh strawberries, thinly sliced
• Banana, sliced
• Mini marshmallows
• Chopped nuts (such as almonds or hazelnuts)
• Powdered sugar (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-low heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, ensuring it remains sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
3. Brush both sides of the dough with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Place the dough on the grill and cook for a few minutes on each side until it becomes slightly crispy.
5. Remove the dough from the grill and spread Nutella or chocolate spread evenly over one side.
6. Arrange the sliced strawberries and bananas on top of the chocolate spread.
7. Sprinkle mini marshmallows and chopped nuts over the fruit.
8. Return the pizza to the grill, cover, and cook until the marshmallows are melted and the crust is golden brown.
9. Remove the pizza from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
10. Dust with powdered sugar and slice into servings before serving.

Grilling Tips for Dessert Pizza

• To prevent the crust from becoming too crispy or burning, be mindful of the grill’s temperature. Lowering the heat slightly and keeping a close eye on the pizza while it cooks will help achieve the desired results.
• Experiment with different fruits, such as raspberries, blueberries, or peaches, to create a customized dessert pizza that suits your preferences.
• Drizzle some caramel or chocolate sauce on top of the finished pizza for an added touch of indulgence.
• Serve the dessert pizza with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the sensory delight.

By following these grilling tips and embracing your creativity, you can create a delectable grilled dessert pizza that will satisfy your sweet cravings and leave you wanting more.

Grilled Breakfast Pizza

Who says pizza is just for lunch and dinner? Why not start your day off with a delicious and satisfying grilled breakfast pizza? This unconventional take on a morning meal combines breakfast favorites like eggs, bacon, and cheese with the charred and crispy goodness of a grilled pizza crust. Let’s explore a tasty breakfast pizza recipe and some essential grilling tips to kick-start your mornings.

Recipe for Breakfast Pizza

Ingredients:

• Pizza dough
• Olive oil
• Breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
• Bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Eggs, lightly beaten
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Green onions, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness, ensuring it remains sturdy enough to support the toppings.
3. Brush both sides of the dough with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Place the dough on the grill and cook for a few minutes on each side until it becomes slightly crispy.
5. Remove the dough from the grill and let it cool slightly.
6. In a pan, scramble the eggs until just set.
7. Spread the scrambled eggs evenly over one side of the pizza dough.
8. Sprinkle the crumbled breakfast sausage and bacon on top of the eggs.
9. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the toppings.
10. Return the pizza to the grill, cover, and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
11. Remove the pizza from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
12. Garnish with sliced green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tips for Grilling Breakfast Pizza

• Consider adding other breakfast essentials, such as sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even a drizzle of maple syrup, to elevate the flavors of your breakfast pizza.
• Opt for a spicy breakfast sausage or sprinkle red chili flakes over the toppings to add a zesty kick to your morning meal.
• For added creaminess, dollop some sour cream or sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over the finished breakfast pizza.
• Embrace your creativity by experimenting with different types of cheeses, such as mozzarella, feta, or pepper jack, to customize your breakfast pizza experience.

By incorporating these tips into your breakfast routine, you’ll transform your mornings into a culinary adventure filled with the delicious and satisfying taste of a grilled breakfast pizza.

In conclusion, grilling pizza opens up a whole new world of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a fan of classic Margherita or prefer more adventurous combinations, grilling pizza can take your pizza game to the next level. From tangy BBQ chicken to vibrant Mediterranean flavors, these grilled pizza recipes provide an array of options to please any palate. With the provided recipes and helpful grilling tips, you can confidently embark on your grilling journey and create pizzas that will impress your friends and family. So fire up the grill, gather your favorite ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the mouthwatering delights of pizza on the grill.