Want artisan-style pizza with a smoky, crisp crust—right at home? Grilling pizza on your gas grill is fun, fast, and brings out amazing flavor. Whether you’re using a pizza stone, baking sheet, or stretching dough right on the grates, you’ll get bubbly cheese and golden crust every time. Here’s how to do it!
What You’ll Need
- Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
- Olive oil
- Your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings
- Pizza stone or heavy-duty baking sheet (optional but best)
- Pizza peel or large cutting board
- Tongs, spatula, and a grill brush
- Cornmeal or flour (for dusting)
- Parchment paper (optional for easy transfers)
Step 1: Prep the Grill
- Preheat your gas grill on high for 10–15 minutes. If using a pizza stone or steel, place it on the grates before preheating so it gets hot too.
- Clean the grates thoroughly with a grill brush.
- After preheating, reduce the burners to medium or medium-high, aiming for 450–500°F (pizza cooks fast at high temps).
Step 2: Shape and Prep the Dough
- Stretch or roll out your pizza dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Thinner dough gives you a crispier crust.
- Dust a pizza peel, baking sheet, or a piece of parchment with flour or cornmeal. Place the shaped dough on top.
- Brush the top with olive oil (this helps it not stick and crisps the bottom).
Step 3: Grill the Crust (Direct on Grate or Stone)
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For a pizza stone or steel:
- Slide the prepared dough (with or without parchment) onto the hot stone. Close the lid and cook 3–5 minutes, until the bottom is golden and lightly puffed.
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For direct grilling on grates (no stone):
- Carefully lift the oiled dough and lay it directly on the hot, clean grates. Close the lid. Grill for 2–3 minutes until grill marks form and the dough firms up.
- Flip the dough using tongs or a spatula. Now you’re ready to add toppings!
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For a pan pizza (cast iron or sheet pan):
- Oil the pan well, stretch dough to fit, and place on the grill. Cook with lid closed until the bottom is set and golden, then add toppings and finish.
Step 4: Add Sauce, Cheese, and Toppings
- After the first side is set (and flipped if grilling directly), spread sauce, sprinkle cheese, and add toppings quickly. Less is more—avoid overloading.
- Close the lid. Grill another 3–6 minutes until cheese is bubbly and melted, and the bottom is crisp.
- Rotate pizza as needed for even cooking, especially if your grill has hot spots.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Use a peel or spatula to remove pizza from the grill or stone. Cool 1–2 minutes before slicing (this helps cheese set).
- Garnish with fresh basil, extra olive oil, or parmesan. Enjoy your backyard pizzeria!
Tips for Grilled Pizza Perfection
- Pre-cook watery toppings (like mushrooms or spinach) to avoid soggy pizza.
- If grilling directly, keep the dough a bit thicker for easier handling.
- Experiment with wood chips or a smoker box for smoky flavor (optional).
- Grilled pizzas are done fast! Keep an eye out to avoid burning.
- Try small or personal-size pizzas for easier flipping and fun variety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought dough on the grill?
Absolutely! Just let it come to room temperature for easier stretching and best texture.
Should I oil the grill grates for pizza?
Yes, a lightly oiled grate helps prevent sticking, especially if grilling dough directly.
Do I need a pizza stone?
Stones or steels give a classic crisp crust, but you can grill right on the grates or use a heavy pan. All work great!
How do I keep the crust from burning?
Use medium to medium-high heat after preheating, and watch closely. If needed, move pizza to indirect heat after topping.
Can I grill frozen pizza?
Yes, but results are best with fresh dough. If grilling frozen pizza, use indirect heat and a pizza stone for even cooking.
Conclusion: Grilling Pizza on Gas Grill is Fun and Delicious
You don’t need a fancy oven for great pizza! With just your gas grill, some dough, and your favorite toppings, you can enjoy artisan pies all summer long. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, grilling pizza is simple, quick, and full of flavor. Fire it up and enjoy your best slice yet!