Grilled Pizza Night Without a Pizza Stone or Oven

Name: Grilled Pizza Night Without a Pizza Stone or Oven
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound pizza dough; 1 cup pizza sauce (or pesto, barbecue sauce); 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni; 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil leaves for garnish; Olive oil for brushing; Salt and pepper to taste

By Jason Griffith

April 20, 2025 3 Min Read

Grilled Pizza Night: A Slice of Summer Fun

There’s something magical about summer evenings spent outdoors, and for me, that magic often comes in the form of grilled pizza. Growing up, my family would gather in the backyard, the scent of charcoal wafting through the air, as we crafted our own personal pizzas. Each one was a canvas for creativity, and the laughter that filled the air made every bite taste even better. This recipe brings back those cherished memories, allowing me to recreate that joy without needing a pizza stone or an oven.

What Makes It Special

This grilled pizza recipe stands out for several reasons:

Easy to Make: You don’t need fancy equipment; just a grill and some basic ingredients.
Customizable: Everyone can create their own unique pizza, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.
Smoky Flavor: Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor that you simply can’t achieve in an oven.
Fun Activity: It’s a great way to bring family and friends together for a fun cooking experience.

Gather Your Ingredients

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup pizza sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, etc.)
Olive oil for brushing
Flour for dusting

Let’s Get Cooking

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, let the coals burn until they are covered with white ash.
On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness. Aim for about ¼ inch thick for a crispy crust.
Brush one side of the dough with olive oil. This will help it crisp up on the grill.
Carefully place the oiled side down on the grill. Close the lid and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown.
Flip the dough over and quickly spread pizza sauce on the cooked side. Add cheese and your favorite toppings.
Close the lid again and grill for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the grill, slice, and enjoy your delicious grilled pizza!

My Pro Tips

For a crispy crust, make sure your grill is hot enough before placing the dough on it.
Experiment with different sauces like pesto or barbecue sauce for a unique flavor twist.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding fresh herbs like basil or arugula after grilling for a fresh touch.

Perfect Pairings

To complement your grilled pizza, consider serving:

Fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette
Grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers
A chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade
Homemade garlic bread for an extra treat

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

A: Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a great time-saver and works perfectly for grilling.

Q: What if I don’t have a grill?

A: You can use a grill pan on the stovetop, or even bake it in the oven at a high temperature if needed.

The Heart of the Dish

Grilled pizza is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. The joy of creating something delicious with loved ones, sharing stories, and enjoying the warm summer air is what makes this dish so special to me. I hope it brings you as much happiness as it has brought to my family.

Your Turn

Now it’s your turn to create your own grilled pizza masterpiece! I encourage you to try this recipe, get creative with your toppings, and share your experiences. Let me know how it turns out and what unique combinations you come up with!