Grilling pizza dough adds a deliciously smoky and slightly charred flavor that transforms your pizza into something special. This method yields a wonderfully crispy crust on the outside while keeping the inside soft and chewy. Grilled pizza is perfect for outdoor gatherings, as the dough cooks quickly on the grill, allowing you to top it with fresh ingredients that complement the charred flavor. Whether you prefer classic tomato sauce and mozzarella or more adventurous toppings, grilled pizza dough serves as the ideal canvas for creativity.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for grilling)
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top, stir gently, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a rough dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Let it rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare for grilling: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 2 or 4 portions, depending on the size of your pizzas. Roll out each portion on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
- Grill the dough: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush one side of the dough with olive oil. Place the oiled side down on the grill grates and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until grill marks form and the dough puffs up. Brush the top side with olive oil, flip, and grill for another 1-2 minutes.
- Top and finish: Remove the dough from the grill and add your desired toppings. Return the pizza to the grill, close the lid, and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the toppings are heated through.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy your grilled pizza immediately for the best flavor!
