How To Grill Pizza On A Charcoal Grill

Grilling pizza on a charcoal grill can be a fun and delicious way to enjoy a homemade meal with a unique smoky flavor. With the right techniques and a few simple steps, you can elevate your pizza game and impress your friends and family at your next cookout. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of grilling pizza on a charcoal grill, from preparing the dough to adding your favorite toppings and achieving that perfect crispy crust.

Preparing the Dough

Before you start grilling, you’ll need to prepare the pizza dough. You can use store-bought dough or make your own from scratch. Here’s a simple recipe for homemade pizza dough:

1. Combine 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast, 1 1/2 cups of warm water, and 1 teaspoon of sugar in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a separate bowl, mix 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons of salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the flour and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise for about an hour until it doubles in size.

Preparing the Grill

While the dough is rising, you can prepare your charcoal grill. Here’s how to get it ready for grilling pizza:

1. Start by lighting the charcoal in a chimney starter until it’s covered with white ash.
2. Spread the hot charcoal evenly across the bottom of the grill.
3. Place the grill grate on top and allow it to preheat for about 10-15 minutes.
4. Brush the grate with oil to prevent the dough from sticking.

Grilling the Pizza

Once the dough has risen and the grill is ready, it’s time to grill the pizza:

1. Divide the dough into individual-sized portions and shape them into rounds.
2. Place the dough rounds directly onto the grill grate and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are lightly charred.
3. Remove the grilled dough from the grill and add your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings to the charred side.
4. Return the topped pizzas to the grill and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes with the lid closed until the cheese is melted, and the crust is crispy.
5. Once the pizza is cooked to your liking, carefully remove it from the grill using a pizza peel or a large spatula.

Tips for Grilling Pizza on a Charcoal Grill

Grilling pizza on a charcoal grill can be a bit different from using a traditional oven, so here are a few tips to help you achieve the best results:

• Keep an eye on the heat: Charcoal grills can have hot spots, so it’s essential to monitor the temperature and rotate the pizza as needed to ensure even cooking.
• Use the right toppings: Opt for toppings that cook quickly, such as thinly sliced vegetables, fresh herbs, and pre-cooked meats, to prevent them from burning on the grill.
• Don’t overload the pizza: Adding too many toppings can weigh down the dough and make it soggy, so keep it simple and let the flavors shine.
• Experiment with different flavors: Grilling pizza allows you to infuse smoky flavors into your favorite toppings, so don’t be afraid to get creative with combinations like BBQ chicken, grilled vegetables, or even fruit and cheese for a unique dessert pizza.

Conclusion

Grilling pizza on a charcoal grill is a fantastic way to enjoy a crispy, smoky, and flavorful homemade pizza. With a little practice and the right techniques, you can master the art of grilling pizza and impress your guests with a unique and delicious meal. So fire up the grill, gather your favorite toppings, and get ready to create the perfect grilled pizza right in your own backyard.

Now that you have the know-how, go ahead and give it a try. You won't be disappointed!