Grilling is a popular cooking technique that many people associate with meat and vegetables. However, did you know that you can also grill a premade pizza crust? Grilling a pizza on the BBQ offers a unique smoky flavor that is sure to impress your guests.
If you’re someone who loves the convenience of premade pizza crusts, then this grilling method might be a game-changer. Not only does it save you time and effort, but it also adds an extra layer of flavor to your pizza. In this article, we’ll explore the steps involved in grilling a premade pizza crust and share some tips to help you get a delicious result every time.
Preparing Your Grill for Cooking a Pizza Crust
Grilling a premade pizza crust on an outdoor grill is an excellent way to achieve a delicious, crispy, and smoky flavor for your pizza. Before firing up your grill, it is essential to prepare it thoroughly to ensure your pizza cooks and comes out just the way you like it.
First, you need to clean the grates and remove any debris or leftover ashes. Next, set the grill to medium heat as this will help cook your pizza crust perfectly. Preheat the grill for at least 10-15 minutes before placing your premade pizza crust on the grill. This will ensure that your crust will cook evenly and give it a crispy texture. Additionally, it is essential to oil the grates before placing the pizza crust to prevent it from sticking. Follow these simple steps for preparing your grill, and you’ll be ready to cook a perfect premade pizza crust on the grill.
Tips for Choosing the Right Pizza Crust for the Grill
When it comes to grilling a premade pizza crust, selecting the right crust is crucial. Choosing the wrong crust can result in a burnt or undercooked pizza. One crucial factor to consider is the thickness of the crust. While thin crusts cook faster and evenly, thicker crusts require more time. Additionally, you may want to look for crusts that are made using high-gluten flour as they tend to hold up better on the grill.
Another important consideration is the shape of the crust. Consider selecting crusts that are designed specifically for grilling. These crusts tend to be thicker and have a uniform shape, making them easier to cook. Finally, you may want to consider the ingredients used to make the crust. Some pre-made crusts already come seasoned, which can add a nice flavor to your pizza. Other crusts may be gluten-free or made with alternative flours for those with dietary restrictions. Overall, selecting the right pizza crust for the grill can make all the difference in ensuring that your pizza comes out perfectly cooked and delicious.
How to Prepare the Pizza Crust for Grilling
Preparing a premade pizza crust for grilling is a crucial step in achieving a crispy and delicious pizza. Firstly, brush the crust with olive oil to prevent it from sticking to the grill grate. If you want extra flavor, you can also sprinkle some garlic powder or Italian seasoning on the crust before adding toppings.
Next, you need to preheat the grill to high heat for about 10-15 minutes and clean the grates thoroughly. This will ensure that the crust cooks evenly and does not stick to the grill. Once the grill is preheated, place the prepared crust onto the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it is lightly browned and has grill marks. Be sure to keep a close eye on the crust to prevent it from burning. Once the crust is cooked, remove it from the grill and add your desired toppings before returning it to the grill to finish cooking.
Best Techniques for Grilling a Premade Pizza Crust
Grilling a premade pizza crust is a great way to get that smoky, charred flavor that you can’t get from an oven. While there are many techniques for grilling a pizza crust, here are a few tips to help you achieve the best results.
Firstly, make sure that your grill is hot. Preheat the grill to medium-high and brush it with oil to prevent sticking. Secondly, place the premade crust on the grill and cook it for about 2-3 minutes. Use tongs to rotate the crust at regular intervals to ensure even cooking, and to prevent it from burning. Once the crust is crisp and golden, remove it from the grill and place it on a clean surface. Now, add your favorite toppings and return the pizza to the grill to cook for a few more minutes, until the cheese is melted and the crust is perfectly crispy. With these techniques, you can create delicious grilled pizza right in your backyard.
Toppings to Consider for Grilled Pizza
When it comes to toppings for grilled pizza, the options are virtually endless. You can go with classic pizza toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers, or you can get creative and experiment with gourmet ingredients like prosciutto, artichokes, arugula, and sun-dried tomatoes. Grilled pizza also provides an opportunity to use seasonal ingredients like grilled peaches, asparagus, or zucchini.
In addition to choosing toppings that complement your personal tastes, it’s important to consider how these ingredients will cook on the grill. Ingredients that are sliced thinly or cooked beforehand will cook faster than ingredients that are dense or uncooked. It’s also a good idea to arrange toppings evenly across the pizza crust to ensure that every slice has a mix of flavors and textures. With a variety of toppings and thoughtful preparation, grilled pizza can be a fun and flavorful way to enjoy a summer cookout.
How to Avoid Common Grilled Pizza Mishaps
Grilling pizza can be a fun and delicious experience, but it’s not without its challenges. One of the most common problems is a dough that sticks to the grill. To avoid this, make sure your grill grates are clean and well-greased before cooking. Also, don’t over-flour your dough, as excess flour can cause it to stick. Instead, use a small amount of olive oil or cornmeal to prevent sticking.
Another issue that can arise when grilling pizza is uneven cooking. To prevent this, make sure your grill is heated evenly and that you rotate your pizza periodically to ensure that all sides cook evenly. Additionally, avoid overloading your pizza with toppings, as this can cause the crust to become soggy. Stick to a few simple toppings and don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations. By following these tips, you can avoid common grilled pizza mishaps and create a delicious meal that your whole family will love.
Serving and Storing Grilled Pizza Crusts
Once you have grilled your premade pizza crust to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy your delicious creation. When it comes to serving grilled pizza crusts, the possibilities are endless. You can keep things simple by adding some classic toppings, like tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni. However, you can also get creative and experiment with a variety of toppings and sauces to create unique and delicious flavor combinations.
When it comes to storing grilled pizza crusts, it’s best to store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. You can also freeze them for later use, but be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to use the crust again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or on the countertop and then reheat it in the oven or on the grill before adding your favorite toppings. With these tips, you’ll be able to serve and enjoy delicious grilled pizza crusts anytime, anywhere!
The Bottom Line
Cooking pizza on a grill is a fun and easy way to add an extra element of flavor to your pizza. By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious grilled pizza that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Whether you’re using a homemade or pre-made crust, grilling your pizza is a great way to add a unique touch to your meal. With the right toppings and a hot grill, you can create a pizza that is crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor. So, the next time you want to make pizza, why not try grilling it instead? Your taste buds will thank you!