Grilling pizza perfectly needs some practice and the right approach. You can get that crispy crust, melty cheese, unique flavour, and incredible texture right in your backyard. The outcome of grilling pizza is completely different than a conventional oven. If you are a beginner, it is essential to understand the process, prepare properly and always be prepared to experiment. Here are some fundamental steps that can help you become a pizza grilling pro.

Prep work before firing the grill

• Consider your dough: Store-bought dough is a safe option for beginners, but if you feel adventurous – make your own. Before rolling allow it to come to room temperature, making it easier to handle.

• Consider sauce quantity: Adding too much sauce can lead to a soggy crust. Remember less is more…..so choose a good-quality sauce and apply a thin layer.

• Consider cheese options: Fresh Mozzarella cheese is a classic choice but take chances with other options like fontina or provolone.

• Prep your toppings: Slice the vegetables and meats in advance. Keep herbs you need nearby.

• Consider pizza peel: A wooden peel dusted with cornmeal is great for building the pizza, while a metal peel is best for removing the pizza from the hot grill. 

Choosing the ideal grill & accessories

The type of grill you use can significantly impact your pizza-grilling experience. It is suggested to use a ceramic grill because of its fantastic heat retention capabilities, which allows creating the perfect pizza crust. BBQs 2U is a retail store selling top brand grills including the Kamado Joe series popular amongst enthusiasts. For example, the Kamado Joe Classic 2 is an efficient option for beginners seeking to enhance their outdoor cooking style.

The Classic 2 boasts features like –

• The Kontrol Tower Top Vent for precise temperature control 
• The Air Lift Hinge for easy lid lifting
• The multi-panel firebox prevents cracking under high temperatures
• The stainless steel cooking grates are durable and easy to clean
• Its thick ceramic walls provide excellent insulation, allowing for even heat distribution and temperatures required for pizza perfection

Key accessories include the DoJoe for pizza and baking, which converts it into an oven, or the Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System for multi-level grilling, allowing you to cook other dishes at the same time. These tools, readily available online are designed to enhance your grilling experience and help you achieve professional-level results.

Mastering the grilling technique

The first step is to fire up the grill to high temperature. Now, build your pizza on the wood peel covered with flour to avoid sticking. Slide the pizza gently on the preheated pizza stone or grill grates. 

Monitor the crust and rotate the pizza after every minute to ensure even cooking. If you find the bottom is browning very quickly, move the pizza to a little less hot zone on the grill or you can lower the heat a little. 

Once the crust looks brow and cheese is bubbly, remove the pizza carefully with the metal peel. Allow it to rest for a couple of minutes before you slice and serve.

Never be afraid to experiment with different toppings. Grilling pizza is an experience of outdoor cooking and enjoying a delicious meal with your loved ones. So, fire the Classic 2 and start your journey to becoming a pizza grilling pro!