7 Ways To Turn Your Gas Grill Into An Outdoor Pizza Oven
Who doesn’t love the aroma of freshly baked pizza wafting through the air on a warm evening? If you’re a fan of both grilling and pizza, you’re in for a treat. In this article, we’ll delve into the exciting world of outdoor pizza making using your trusty gas grill. With a few simple tweaks and creative solutions, you can elevate your gas grill into an outdoor pizza oven experience to a whole new level. Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or a pizza aficionado, these 7 methods will help you craft delicious homemade pizzas with that signature crispy crust and melty cheese.
So, let’s dive in and explore the secrets to turning your gas grill into an outdoor pizza oven.
1. Pizza Stone Magic
One of the most effective ways to emulate the intense heat of a traditional pizza oven is by using a pizza stone. This method involves placing a pizza stone on your gas grill’s grates and preheating it to a high temperature. The stone absorbs and retains heat, ensuring that your pizza crust cooks evenly and achieves that coveted crunchiness. When your pizza is ready to bake, slide it onto the preheated stone using a pizza peel. The result? A delectable pizza with a perfectly crisp crust and a smoky grilled flavor.
2. The Cast Iron Skillet Technique
If you’re a fan of deep-dish or pan-style pizzas, the cast iron skillet technique is your go-to. Simply place a seasoned cast iron skillet on the grill and let it heat up. Then, add your pizza dough and toppings directly into the skillet. The cast iron conducts heat efficiently, creating a golden crust that’s both soft and crispy. This method is perfect for experimenting with unique toppings and flavor combinations, giving you endless pizza possibilities.
3. Grill-Smoked Pizza
Infuse your pizzas with a hint of smokiness by incorporating wood chips or chunks into your gas grill. Soak the wood chips in water for about 30 minutes, then place them in a smoker box or wrap them in aluminum foil. As they heat up on the grill, they’ll release aromatic smoke that adds an extra layer of flavor to your pizza. This method is excellent for creating gourmet pizzas that will impress your guests with their complexity and depth of taste.
4. Rotisserie Delight
If your gas grill comes equipped with a rotisserie attachment, you’re in luck! Turn your grill into a rotating pizza oven by placing the pizza dough on the rotisserie rod. As the rod spins, your pizza will cook evenly on all sides, resulting in a perfectly balanced and cooked pie. This method is not only fun to watch but also guarantees a delicious pizza that’s cooked to perfection.
5. Two-Zone Cooking
Master the art of two-zone cooking by creating a high-heat zone and a low-heat zone on your grill. Preheat one side of the grill to high heat and the other side to medium or low heat. Begin by searing your pizza dough on the high-heat side to achieve that coveted charred crust. Then, move it to the low-heat side, add your toppings, and close the lid. This method allows your toppings to cook without burning the crust, resulting in a well-balanced and flavorful pizza.
6. Grilled Flatbreads with Pizza Toppings
For a unique twist on traditional pizza, consider making grilled flatbreads with pizza-inspired toppings. Roll out your dough into flatbread shapes and grill them until they’re lightly charred. Then, add your favorite pizza toppings, such as tomato sauce, cheese, vegetables, and meats. The result is a delightful combination of smoky flavors and Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
7. Quick and Easy Naan Pizzas
When time is of the essence, naan pizzas come to the rescue. Utilize store-bought naan bread as your pizza base and get creative with your toppings. The naan cooks quickly on the grill, and you’ll have a mouthwatering pizza ready in minutes. This method is perfect for impromptu pizza nights or when you’re craving a fast and delicious meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I use any type of gas grill for these methods?
Yes, these methods are adaptable to most gas grill models, whether they’re propane or natural gas.
Q: What’s the advantage of using a pizza stone?
A pizza stone helps distribute heat evenly, resulting in a crispy crust similar to those cooked in traditional pizza ovens.
Q: How do I prevent my pizza dough from sticking to the grill grates?
To prevent sticking, make sure your grill grates are well-oiled before placing the pizza dough.
Q: Can I use wood chips from fruit trees for grill-smoked pizza?
Absolutely! Fruitwood chips, like apple or cherry, add a delicate and sweet smokiness to your pizzas.
Q: Is it possible to make dessert pizzas on the grill?
Absolutely! Grilled dessert pizzas with toppings like chocolate, fruit, and marshmallows are a delicious treat.
Q: Can I cook multiple pizzas using the rotisserie method?
Yes, you can thread multiple pizza doughs onto the rotisserie rod for a pizza feast.
Conclusion
There you have it 7 fantastic ways to transform your gas grill into an outdoor pizza oven. From the classic pizza stone method to the unique naan pizza approach, these techniques offer diverse flavors and textures that will impress your taste buds. So, the next time you’re craving a slice of perfectly grilled pizza, remember that your gas grill is more than capable of delivering that mouthwatering experience. Get inventive, play around with the toppings, and savor the satisfaction of devouring a homemade pizza that your grill has kissed.