Grill Like a Pizzaiolo: How to Cook Pizza on a BBQ

If you want to take your homemade pizza to the next level, cooking it on a BBQ is a game-changer! Grilling pizza creates a smoky, crispy crust and allows you to cook at high temperatures, similar to a traditional pizza oven. Whether you’re using a gas grill, charcoal grill, or wood-fired BBQ, this guide will show you how to get the best results. 🍕🔥

Why Cook Pizza on a BBQ?

Higher Heat = Better Crust – BBQs can reach 500-700°F, similar to pizzerias.
Smoky Flavor – Adds a rich, wood-fired taste to your pizza.
Crispy & Charred – The direct heat gives the crust a delicious crunch.
Fun Outdoor Cooking – Perfect for summer gatherings and pizza nights!

What You’ll Need

✅ Pizza Dough – Any good homemade or store-bought dough.
✅ Pizza Stone or Pizza Steel – Helps distribute heat evenly.
✅ Grill with a Lid – Gas, charcoal, or wood-fired BBQ.
✅ Flour or Cornmeal – Prevents sticking.
✅ Pizza Peel – To transfer the pizza onto the grill.
✅ High-Heat Safe Toppings – Fresh mozzarella, pre-cooked meats, and veggies.

Method 1: Directly on the Grill Grates (No Pizza Stone Needed)

If you don’t have a pizza stone, you can cook pizza directly on the grates!

Instructions:

1️⃣ Preheat the Grill – Set it to medium-high heat (450-500°F). Close the lid and let it heat up for 10-15 minutes.
2️⃣ Stretch the Dough – Keep it about ¼ inch thick so it doesn’t burn too fast.
3️⃣ Oil the Grates – Lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4️⃣ Grill One Side First – Place the stretched dough directly on the grates. Close the lid and cook for 1-2 minutes until the bottom firms up.
5️⃣ Flip & Add Toppings – Flip the dough, quickly add sauce, cheese, and toppings, then close the lid.
6️⃣ Cook for Another 3-5 Minutes – Until cheese is melted and the crust is crispy.
7️⃣ Remove & Serve – Use a peel or tongs to remove the pizza and let it cool slightly before slicing.

✅ Best for: Thin, crispy pizzas with minimal toppings.

Method 2: Using a Pizza Stone or Steel on the Grill

A pizza stone or steel helps distribute heat evenly and prevents burning.

Instructions:

1️⃣ Preheat the Stone/Steel – Place it on the grill and heat for 30-45 minutes at 500°F.
2️⃣ Prepare the Pizza – Stretch the dough and assemble your pizza on a floured peel.
3️⃣ Slide Onto the Stone – Carefully transfer the pizza onto the hot stone/steel.
4️⃣ Close the Lid & Cook – Bake for 5-8 minutes, rotating halfway through.
5️⃣ Remove & Serve – Use a peel to take it off the stone, let it cool, and enjoy!

✅ Best for: Neapolitan-style or New York-style pizzas with a softer interior and crispy exterior.

Method 3: Using a Cast Iron Pan on the BBQ

For a deep-dish or pan pizza, a cast iron skillet works amazingly well on a BBQ.

Instructions:

1️⃣ Preheat the Pan – Place the skillet on the grill and heat for 10 minutes at medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Assemble in the Pan – Stretch the dough inside the skillet and add sauce and toppings.
3️⃣ Cover & Cook – Close the grill lid and cook for 10-15 minutes.
4️⃣ Check for Doneness – The bottom should be crispy, and the cheese should be melted.
5️⃣ Remove & Cool – Let it sit for a few minutes before slicing.

✅ Best for: Thick, deep-dish, or pan-style pizzas.

Pro Tips for BBQ Pizza Success

🔥 Use Indirect Heat: For charcoal grills, move coals to one side and cook the pizza on the cooler side.
🔥 Pre-Cook Some Toppings: Meats and some veggies (like mushrooms or onions) should be pre-cooked to avoid raw toppings.
🔥 Rotate the Pizza: Turn the pizza halfway through cooking for even charring.
🔥 Close the Lid: Traps heat inside for better cooking.
🔥 Watch the Temperature: If your grill gets too hot, the bottom may burn before the toppings cook.

Final Thoughts

Cooking pizza on a BBQ adds amazing flavor, crispy texture, and an outdoor cooking experience you won’t get from a regular oven. Whether you go with grill grates, a pizza stone, or a cast iron pan, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious, smoky pizza right from your backyard.

Have you ever tried BBQ pizza? What’s your favorite method? Let us know in the comments! 🍕🔥