Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe
If you’re dreaming of a pizza that captures the fresh flavors of summer with a delightful smoky twist, this Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine crispy, charred crust kissed by open flames, topped with rich mozzarella, sweet heirloom tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves that burst with garden-fresh goodness. It’s a simple, quick recipe that transforms basic ingredients into a spectacular meal perfect for an outdoor feast or a cozy evening in. Once you try this, grilled pizza nights will become your new favorite tradition.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe comes from a handful of straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role. Freshness and quality shine through, whether in the creamy mozzarella or the vibrant heirloom tomato, making every bite a perfect harmony of flavor and texture.
- Pizza dough: Store-bought or homemade, it forms the perfect crispy, chewy base that holds all the toppings.
- Pizza sauce (⅓ cup): Brings a tangy, savory layer that complements the cheese and tomato.
- Shredded whole milk mozzarella (1 ½ cups): Melted into gooey goodness, it’s essential for that luscious cheese pull.
- Heirloom tomato (½ large, thinly sliced): Adds vibrant color and juicy sweetness that balances the cheese.
- Basil (handful, sliced or hand-torn): Offers an herby freshness that brightens every bite.
- Flour and cornmeal: For dusting the pan so the dough doesn’t stick and gets a delightful crunch.
How to Make Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Start by firing up your outdoor grill to a high heat and give those grates a good clean. This ensures your dough will cook evenly and achieve those classic, beautiful grill marks. A hot grill is the secret to a wonderfully crispy base with just enough char.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
On a pizza pan dusted generously with flour and cornmeal, roll out your dough so it fits nicely. The flour and cornmeal prevent sticking while the cornmeal adds a hint of crunchiness. Gently stretch or pull the dough—it should be thin enough to crisp but thick enough to hold toppings without sogginess.
Step 3: Grill the Dough
Slide the pizza dough straight onto the grill grates and close the lid. Let it cook for 3 to 5 minutes, carefully monitoring to prevent burning. Then flip and repeat. This grilling step cooks the crust through and gives it those irresistible smoky notes and a charred texture that’s hard to beat.
Step 4: Assemble Toppings
Reduce the heat to low and bring the crust off the direct flame. Now spread an even layer of the pizza sauce all over, scatter the shredded mozzarella generously, then top with thinly sliced heirloom tomatoes. This layering lets the cheese melt perfectly and the tomatoes soften just right.
Step 5: Finish Grilling
Back to the grill with your assembled pizza, cooking on low until the cheese melts and everything is warmed through. Once ready, take it off the grill and scatter the fresh basil over the top for that final aromatic punch. Slice it up and prepare for a mouthwatering experience.
How to Serve Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is a must, but you can also drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil or a balsamic glaze to add layers of flavor and a touch of elegance. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or crushed red pepper flakes also brightens and spices up the pie beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this pizza with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast or some grilled vegetables to keep the smoky vibe going. A light antipasto platter with olives, prosciutto, or marinated artichokes will effortlessly elevate your meal into a lovely Italian-inspired feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic look, serve the Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe whole on a wooden serving board, emphasizing its homemade charm. Alternatively, cut it into small squares or bite-size pieces for a party platter that’s easy to share. You could also stack mini versions for a fun, layered appetizer option that delights everyone.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover pizza in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain moisture without losing crispness. It’s best eaten within 1 to 2 days to enjoy fresh flavor and texture.
Freezing
While freezing grilled pizza isn’t ideal due to texture changes, you can freeze the dough ahead of time. Simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before rolling out and grilling fresh, so you always have pizza dough ready for quick outdoor cooking sessions.
Reheating
To revive leftover Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe slices, warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to regain crispiness without sogginess. Alternatively, a low oven bake works well, but avoid microwaving to keep the crust from turning chewy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While whole milk mozzarella gives the best melt and flavor, fresh mozzarella or a blend with provolone can also work well. Just keep in mind softer cheeses may create a wetter topping.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can bake this pizza in a hot oven on a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet as an alternative. It won’t have the same smoky char, but it will still be delicious and satisfying.
Is homemade dough better than store-bought?
Homemade dough brings a personal touch and can taste fresher, but good quality store-bought dough saves time and works perfectly in this recipe without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make this pizza vegetarian?
Yes! This Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe is naturally vegetarian, relying on fresh vegetables, cheese, and herbs for a delightful, meat-free meal. For vegan options, substitute vegan mozzarella and skip the traditional pizza sauce or select a vegan-friendly version.
How do I prevent the dough from sticking to the grill?
Dusting your pizza pan with flour and cornmeal helps a lot. Also, ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the dough, and avoid moving the dough too soon so it sets properly on the grill surface.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients, hands-on cooking, and irresistible flavors. Whether you’re grilling under the sun or stars, it’s a wonderfully simple way to impress friends and savor summer’s best. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a staple you’ll love making again and again.
Print
Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
This Grilled Caprese Pizza is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe perfect for summer cookouts or a quick outdoor meal. Featuring a crispy grilled pizza crust topped with classic Caprese ingredients like fresh mozzarella, heirloom tomatoes, and aromatic basil, this dish combines smoky flavor from the grill with fresh Italian flair. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal one-serving gourmet pizza that’s both satisfying and simple.
Ingredients
Pizza Base
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- Flour and cornmeal (for dusting pan)
Toppings
- ⅓ cup (123 g) pizza sauce, more if needed
- 1 ½ cups (112 g) shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
- ½ large heirloom tomato, thinly sliced
- Handful of basil, thinly sliced or hand-torn
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your outdoor grill to high heat, ensuring the grates are clean and ready for cooking to achieve that perfect char on the dough.
- Prepare the Dough: On a 9-inch pizza pan dusted with flour and cornmeal, roll out the pizza dough, gently stretching and pulling it to fit the pan shape evenly without tearing.
- Grill the Dough: Carefully slide the prepared dough onto the hot grill, centering it on the grates. Close the lid and grill for 3-5 minutes on each side, monitoring closely to avoid burning and to develop a crispy base.
- Assemble Toppings: Once both sides of the dough are nicely grilled, reduce the grill heat to low and bring the dough inside. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the grilled crust, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella generously, and arrange the thin tomato slices atop.
- Finish Grilling: Return the assembled pizza to the grill and cook with the lid closed until the cheese melts fully and toppings warm through, usually a few minutes. Remove from grill, garnish with fresh basil, slice, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure the grill grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
- Use a pizza stone or pan dusted with flour and cornmeal to make transferring dough easier.
- Keep an eye on the dough while grilling; it cooks quickly and can burn if left unattended.
- For extra flavor, drizzle olive oil over the pizza before serving.
- You can substitute heirloom tomatoes with other fresh tomato varieties if unavailable.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pizza
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
