How to Grill Pizza - The Ultimate Guide

Why Grill Pizza?

When temperatures soar, the last thing anyone wants is to turn on the oven and heat up the house. Grilling pizza outdoors not only keeps your kitchen cool but also imparts a unique smoky flavor that rivals the best pizzerias. According to a survey by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, 64% of Americans own a grill, and 45% of them use it at least 1-2 times per week during the summer months (HPBA, 2020).

The Basics of Grilling Pizza

Choosing Your Crust

One of the most popular methods for grilling pizza is using flatbread, which pairs beautifully with fresh tomatoes, cheese, and olive oil. However, traditional round pizza crusts also work well. The key is to ensure the grill is preheated to a high temperature, allowing the crust to cook quickly and achieve a crisp exterior while remaining tender and chewy inside.

Prepping Your Ingredients

Grilling pizza requires a bit of preparation, especially since the grill provides heat only from the bottom. Here are some essential tips:

1. Cheese First: Place the cheese directly on the crust to ensure it melts thoroughly.
2. Sauce Second: Add dollops of tomato sauce on top of the cheese.
3. Pre-Cooked Toppings: Since the grill lacks a top heat source, pre-cook toppings like sausage, mushrooms, and green peppers. This ensures they are fully cooked and hot when added to the pizza.

Cooking Tips

• High Heat: Preheat your grill to at least 500°F (260°C) for optimal results.
• Quick Cooking: The crust will cook in under a minute, so have all your ingredients ready to go.
• Monitor Closely: Keep a close eye on the pizza to prevent burning.

Advanced Techniques

Using a Pizza Stone

For those looking to elevate their grilled pizza game, consider using a pizza stone. A pizza stone helps distribute heat evenly and absorbs moisture, resulting in a crispier crust. Place the stone on the grill while preheating to ensure it reaches the desired temperature.

Experimenting with Flavors

Don't be afraid to get creative with your toppings. Here are some unique combinations to try:

• Prosciutto and Arugula: Add prosciutto after grilling and top with fresh arugula.
• BBQ Chicken: Use BBQ sauce instead of tomato sauce and add grilled chicken, red onions, and cilantro.
• Margherita: Keep it simple with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Interesting Stats

• According to a report by PMQ Pizza Magazine, the global pizza market was valued at $145 billion in 2020, with grilled pizza becoming an increasingly popular trend (PMQ, 2021).
• A study by the National Restaurant Association found that 83% of consumers eat pizza at least once a month, highlighting the dish's enduring popularity (NRA, 2019).

Conclusion

Grilling pizza is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious, home-baked taste without heating up your kitchen. With a bit of preparation and the right techniques, you can achieve a smoky, crispy crust that will impress your family and friends. So fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy some of the best pizza you've ever made.

For more grilling tips and recipes, check out Serious Eats and The Kitchn.

References

• Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA). (2020). Grilling Statistics.
• PMQ Pizza Magazine. (2021). Global Pizza Market Report.
• National Restaurant Association (NRA). (2019). Pizza Consumption Statistics.