Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes (plus dough resting time if homemade)
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
Pizza Dough
- 1 pound (450 g) pizza dough, homemade or store-bought
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Pizza Sauce
- ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Toppings
Choose your favorites:
- Pepperoni slices
- Cooked Italian sausage
- Grilled chicken
- Mushrooms, sliced
- Bell peppers, thinly sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Black olives
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves
- Spinach
- Pineapple
- Jalapeños
Garnish
- Fresh basil
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Olive oil for drizzling
Equipment
- Gas or charcoal grill
- Pizza peel or large spatula
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Pastry brush
- Tongs
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to 450–500°F (230–260°C).
Clean and lightly oil the grill grates to help prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Allow the pizza dough to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes if it has been refrigerated.
Divide the dough into two equal portions for medium pizzas or keep it whole for one large pizza.
Stretch or roll each portion into a circle or oval about ¼ inch thick.
Brush one side lightly with olive oil.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the pizza sauce with oregano, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes, if using.
Set aside.
Step 4: Grill the First Side
Carefully place the oiled side of the dough directly onto the hot grill.
Close the lid and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the bottom develops grill marks and the dough begins to firm up.
Using tongs, flip the crust over onto the uncooked side.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Working quickly, spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the grilled side.
Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Add your chosen toppings in an even layer, avoiding overloading the pizza.
Step 6: Finish Grilling
Close the grill lid and continue cooking for 4–6 minutes.
The pizza is done when:
- The cheese is fully melted.
- The crust is crisp and lightly charred.
- The toppings are heated through.
If needed, rotate the pizza halfway through cooking for even browning.
Step 7: Rest and Slice
Carefully remove the pizza from the grill using a pizza peel or large spatula.
Let it rest for 2–3 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled Pizza pairs perfectly with:
- Caesar salad
- Caprese salad
- Garlic bread
- Grilled vegetables
- Pasta salad
- Antipasto platter
- Fresh fruit salad
- Lemonade or sparkling water
Storage
Refrigerator
Store leftover pizza in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat on the grill, in a skillet, or in a 375°F (190°C) oven until hot and the crust is crisp.
Tips for Success
- Preheat the grill thoroughly before adding the dough.
- Brush the dough with olive oil to reduce sticking and encourage browning.
- Keep toppings light so the crust cooks evenly.
- Use low-moisture mozzarella to avoid excess moisture.
- Prepare all toppings before grilling, as the cooking process is quick.
- Rotate the pizza if your grill has hot spots.
Recipe Variations
Margherita Grilled Pizza
Top with fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Use barbecue sauce instead of tomato sauce and top with grilled chicken, red onion, mozzarella, and cilantro.
Veggie Grilled Pizza
Add zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, roasted peppers, onions, and olives.
Meat Lovers Pizza
Top with pepperoni, cooked sausage, bacon, and ham.
White Grilled Pizza
Replace tomato sauce with garlic-infused olive oil or Alfredo sauce, then add mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, spinach, and roasted garlic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grill store-bought pizza dough?
Yes. Fresh store-bought pizza dough works wonderfully and saves time.
Should I cook the toppings first?
Most meats should be fully cooked before adding them. Vegetables can be lightly grilled or thinly sliced so they cook quickly.
Can I use a pizza stone on the grill?
Yes. A pizza stone creates a more traditional crust while still adding smoky grilled flavor.
Why is my pizza sticking?
Make sure the grill is hot, clean, and lightly oiled before placing the dough on the grates.
Can I make grilled pizza ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough, sauce, and toppings in advance, but grill the pizza just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Pizza is a fun, flavorful way to enjoy homemade pizza with a crisp crust, smoky aroma, and endless topping possibilities. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a family dinner, or simply looking for a fresh take on pizza night, this recipe delivers delicious results every time. Pair it with a fresh salad and your favorite toppings for a meal that’s perfect all summer long.
