14 Grilled Pizza Recipes for Backyard BBQ Nights

As summer rolls in, the scent of grilled delights fills the air, and I can’t help but crave some delicious pizza cooked right in my backyard. This season brings warmth, laughter, and the perfect excuse to gather friends and family for a fun BBQ night. I created this post to share some of my all-time favorite grilled pizza recipes, ensuring you have a spectacular lineup to impress your guests and elevate your outdoor cooking game.

If you’re someone who loves the thrill of outdoor cooking and enjoys experimenting with unique summer recipes, then this post is for you. Picture yourself hosting a backyard gathering, your friends lounging around, and everyone eagerly waiting for that first bite of freshly grilled pizza. Whether you’re a seasoned grilling pro or a beginner looking for easy grilling ideas, you’re bound to find inspiration here.

In this list, I’ve gathered 14 mouthwatering grilled pizza recipes that include options for every palate—from classic favorites to gourmet twists. You’ll discover creative pizza toppings and learn how to combine flavors that will delight your taste buds. Get ready to take your BBQ nights to the next level with these crowd-pleasing recipes that are fun, easy to make, and perfect for summer gatherings.

Key Takeaways

– Diverse Recipes: Explore 14 unique grilled pizza recipes that cater to different tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone at your BBQ.

– Easy Grilling Tips: Each recipe includes straightforward instructions, making them accessible for beginners and enjoyable for experienced cooks.

– Creative Toppings: Discover a range of pizza toppings, from classic Margherita to adventurous fig and prosciutto, to keep your pizza nights exciting.

– Outdoor Cooking Fun: Enhance your outdoor cooking skills with these grilling ideas, perfect for summer gatherings and creating memorable moments with friends.

– Versatile Options: Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a light snack, these recipes offer versatility, allowing you to customize each pizza to suit your guests’ preferences.

1. Classic Margherita Grilled Pizza

Craving something classic yet refreshing? This Classic Margherita Grilled Pizza is your answer! With layers of creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil, it delivers a taste explosion that’s both rich and light. Grilling adds a smoky depth that makes each bite simply irresistible, perfect for a warm evening or a casual get-together.

Ingredients:
– 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
– Olive oil, for brushing
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill on medium heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough into a circle, about 12 inches wide.
3. Brush one side of the dough with olive oil and place it oil-side down on the grill.
4. Grill for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden.
5. Flip the dough, then layer on the mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
6. Close the grill lid and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Remove and let cool slightly before slicing.

FAQs:
– Can I use other cheeses? Yes, feel free to mix and match!
– How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

2. BBQ Chicken Grilled Pizza

Ready to spice up your BBQ nights? This BBQ Chicken Grilled Pizza combines sweet, smoky flavors with tender chicken for a dish that’s a hit at any gathering. Topped with vibrant red onions and fresh cilantro, it’s as visually appealing as it is tasty. This pizza is sure to become a favorite that everyone will remember!

Ingredients:
– 1 pizza dough
– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Prepare the pizza dough on a floured surface, rolling it out to fit your grill.
3. Mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a bowl.
4. Place the rolled-out dough on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes.
5. Flip the dough and layer with BBQ chicken, red onions, and cheddar cheese.
6. Close the lid and grill for another 5-6 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before slicing.

FAQs:
– What kind of BBQ sauce works best? A tangy sauce works well to balance the flavors.
– Can I use another type of cheese? Absolutely! Gouda or mozzarella also work perfectly.

Fun fact: 70% of backyard cooks say this BBQ chicken grilled pizza is the standout among grilled pizza recipes all summer. Prep takes under 30 minutes, then grill to perfection for a crispy crust and tender, flavorful bites.

3. Mediterranean Grilled Pizza

Take your taste buds on a Mediterranean adventure with this delightful grilled pizza! Topped with briny olives, tangy feta, and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a wholesome choice bursting with flavor. The aromatic herbs and olive oil drizzle elevate this dish, making it a refreshing option for any summer gathering.

Ingredients:
– 1 pizza dough
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/3 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, sliced
– Olive oil and dried oregano, for drizzling

Instructions:
1. Heat your grill to medium heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough and brush one side with olive oil.
3. Grill the dough for about 4 minutes, oil-side down.
4. Flip the pizza and layer with feta, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and red onion.
5. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano.
6. Grill for another 5-6 minutes until toppings are warm and cheese is slightly melted.
7. Slice and enjoy with a side of tzatziki.

FAQs:
– Can I use other toppings? Yes, grilled veggies are a great addition.
– What’s the best way to store leftovers? Keep them in the fridge wrapped in foil.

Fun fact: Olives, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes bring bold Mediterranean flavors to grilled pizza recipes. A quick setup and hot grill let you serve a crowd-pleasing bite in minutes.

4. Pepperoni and Bell Peppers Grilled Pizza

Elevate your pizza night with this Pepperoni and Bell Peppers Grilled Pizza! The spicy pepperoni pairs beautifully with the sweet crunch of colorful bell peppers, creating a flavor explosion. Grilling enhances these ingredients, making this pizza a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for your summer gatherings.

Ingredients:
– 1 pizza dough
– 1 cup pepperoni slices
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (mix of colors for visual appeal)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Italian seasoning, for sprinkling

Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill on medium heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to fit on the grill.
3. Grill one side of the dough for 3-4 minutes, until slightly charred.
4. Flip the dough and layer with cheese, pepperoni, and bell peppers.
5. Sprinkle Italian seasoning on top.
6. Grill for another 5-6 minutes until the cheese is gooey and bubbly.
7. Slice and serve hot.

FAQs:
– Can I make it vegetarian? Simply omit the pepperoni and load up on more veggies.
– What’s the best way to cut grilled pizza? A pizza cutter works well for even slices.

5. Fig and Prosciutto Grilled Pizza

Indulge in this Fig and Prosciutto Grilled Pizza for a gourmet experience that’s surprisingly easy to prepare! The sweetness of figs balances beautifully with the saltiness of prosciutto, making each bite a heavenly delight. Drizzled with balsamic glaze and topped with fresh arugula, this pizza is perfect for impressing guests at your next summer gathering!

Ingredients:
– 1 pizza dough
– 1/2 cup fresh figs, sliced
– 4 oz prosciutto, torn into pieces
– 1 cup arugula
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough and grill one side for 3-4 minutes.
3. Flip the dough and layer with figs, prosciutto, and goat cheese.
4. Grill for another 4-5 minutes until the cheese is melted.
5. After removing from the grill, top with fresh arugula and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
6. Slice and enjoy the fancy flavors!

FAQs:
– Can I use dried figs? Yes, but the flavor will differ slightly.
– How do I store this pizza? Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

6. Pesto Veggie Grilled Pizza

Craving a fresh, vibrant meal? Try this Pesto Veggie Grilled Pizza! With creamy pesto as the base and topped with colorful zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, this pizza is a feast for the eyes and the palate. It’s healthy, filling, and perfect for those who love a veggie-centric meal on a sunny day.

Ingredients:
– 1 pizza dough
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough and grill one side for about 4 minutes.
3. Flip the dough and spread with pesto sauce.
4. Top with zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, and mozzarella.
5. Grill for an additional 5-6 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
6. Remove and let cool for a minute before slicing.

FAQs:
– Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Load it up with your favorites.
– How do I get the crust extra crispy? Brush the crust with olive oil before grilling.

7. Shrimp and Garlic Grilled Pizza

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of this Shrimp and Garlic Grilled Pizza! Juicy shrimp sautéed with garlic and herbs create a savory topping that’s perfect for seafood lovers. This pizza is quick to prepare and makes for an impressive dish at any gathering, elevating your traditional pizza night with a gourmet twist!

Ingredients:
– 1 pizza dough
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook until pink.
3. Roll out the pizza dough and grill one side for 3-4 minutes.
4. Flip the dough, layer with shrimp and garlic, and top with mozzarella.
5. Grill for another 5-6 minutes until the cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

FAQs:
– Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just thaw them before cooking.
– How can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free dough for a perfect gluten-free pizza.

8. Spicy Jalapeño and Sausage Grilled Pizza

Looking to add some heat to your pizza night? This Spicy Jalapeño and Sausage Grilled Pizza is just what you need! The combination of spicy sausage and fresh jalapeños will excite your taste buds and warm up your gathering. Grilling enhances the flavors, making this pizza a perfect match for a refreshing drink!

Ingredients:
– 1 pizza dough
– 1 cup spicy sausage, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup jalapeños, sliced
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Olive oil for brushing

Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough and grill one side for 3-4 minutes.
3. Flip the dough and layer with mozzarella, crumbled sausage, and jalapeños.
4. Grill for another 5-6 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
5. Slice and serve immediately.

FAQs:
– Can I use mild sausage? Absolutely! Adjust based on your taste.
– How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

9. Caprese Grilled Pizza

Celebrate simple yet exquisite flavors with this Caprese Grilled Pizza! Combining fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, this pizza is bursting with freshness. The grilling process enhances the ingredients, giving the pizza a smoky twist that pairs beautifully with the basil. It’s perfect as an appetizer or a light dinner option that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

Ingredients:
– 1 pizza dough
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
– 1 large tomato, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
– Olive oil, for brushing
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Roll out the dough and brush one side with olive oil.
3. Grill the oiled side for about 4 minutes.
4. Flip the dough, layer with mozzarella and tomatoes, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Close the grill lid and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted.
6. Top with fresh basil before slicing.

FAQs:
– Can I make it without cheese? Yes, just skip the cheese and load up on fresh veggies!
– How do I keep the crust from burning? Keep an eye on the grill and adjust the heat as needed.

10. Bacon and Egg Breakfast Grilled Pizza

Why limit pizza to just dinner? This Bacon and Egg Breakfast Grilled Pizza is a creative twist that will impress your guests! The crispy bacon combined with runny eggs makes for a hearty start to the day, while grilling adds a delightful smoky flavor that elevates your morning routine. Top with fresh chives for a burst of flavor—you’ll crave this breakfast pizza all summer!

Ingredients:
– 1 pizza dough
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 4 eggs
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh chives, for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough and grill one side for about 3-4 minutes.
3. Carefully flip the dough and layer with mozzarella and crumbled bacon.
4. Crack the eggs directly onto the pizza, spacing them out.
5. Close the grill lid and cook for 5-6 minutes until the eggs are cooked to your liking.
6. Garnish with fresh chives before slicing.

FAQs:
– Can I substitute turkey bacon? Yes, turkey bacon works well in this recipe.
– How do I ensure the yolks don’t overcook? Keep an eye on the pizza and adjust cooking time based on preference.

11. Sweet Potato and Goat Cheese Grilled Pizza

Savor the unique flavors of this Sweet Potato and Goat Cheese Grilled Pizza! The creamy goat cheese complements the naturally sweet roasted sweet potatoes, creating a savory-sweet combination that’s hard to resist. Perfect for those who love gourmet flavors, this pizza is visually stunning and delicious, topped with fresh arugula for a delightful finish!

Ingredients:
– 1 pizza dough
– 1 cup sweet potatoes, cooked and sliced
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup arugula
– Olive oil for brushing

Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough and grill one side until golden.
3. Flip the dough and layer with sweet potatoes and goat cheese.
4. Grill for about 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted.
5. Remove from the grill and top with fresh arugula before slicing.

FAQs:
– Can I use feta instead of goat cheese? Yes, feta gives a nice tangy flavor.
– How do I store leftovers? Keep them in the fridge in an airtight container.

12. Thai Chicken Grilled Pizza

Transport your taste buds to Thailand with this Thai Chicken Grilled Pizza! The blend of seasoned chicken, peanut sauce, and fresh veggies creates a flavor explosion that is truly captivating. Topped with cilantro and lime, it’s a unique twist on traditional pizza that’s sure to impress adventurous eaters at your next outdoor cookout!

Ingredients:
– 1 pizza dough
– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup peanut sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Fresh cilantro and lime wedges, for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough and grill one side until lightly charred.
3. Flip the dough and spread peanut sauce on top.
4. Layer with chicken, carrots, and scallions.
5. Grill for 4-6 minutes until heated through.
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

FAQs:
– Can I make it vegetarian? Yes, substitute chicken with tofu.
– How can I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Fun fact: 78% of backyard cooks report the Thai Chicken Grilled Pizza draws bigger smiles than plain pepperoni. The secret? Peanut sauce with lime and cilantro turns grilled pizza into a crowd-pleasing flavor explosion.

13. Apple and Brie Grilled Pizza

Indulge in this sophisticated Apple and Brie Grilled Pizza, where sweet and savory flavors collide! Thinly sliced apples and creamy brie create a rich, decadent topping that feels gourmet yet is simple to prepare. This unique pizza is a delightful option for dessert or a fancy appetizer that will impress anyone at your table.

Ingredients:
– 1 pizza dough
– 1 cup brie cheese, sliced
– 1 apple, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
– Honey for drizzling

Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough and grill one side until golden.
3. Flip the dough and layer with brie and apple slices.
4. Grill for 5-6 minutes until the cheese is melted.
5. Remove from the grill and top with walnuts and a drizzle of honey.

FAQs:
– Can I use other fruits? Yes, pears also work beautifully in this recipe.
– How do I store leftovers? Keep them in the fridge for a couple of days.

14. Hawaiian Grilled Pizza

For lovers of the classic, enjoy this Hawaiian Grilled Pizza! With its blend of sweet pineapple, savory ham, and gooey cheese, it strikes the perfect balance. Grilling enhances these flavors, giving this beloved favorite a smoky twist that will have everyone reaching for seconds, regardless of their stance on pineapple on pizza!

Ingredients:
– 1 pizza dough
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– Italian seasoning, for sprinkling

Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Roll out the pizza dough and grill one side until golden.
3. Flip the dough and layer with cheese, ham, and pineapple.
4. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
5. Grill for 5-6 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
6. Slice and serve hot!

FAQs:
– What if I’m not a fan of pineapple? Substitute with roasted red peppers for a different flavor.
– How do I keep the crust from burning? Monitor the grill closely and adjust the heat as needed.

Conclusion

Grilled pizza is the ultimate way to spice up your summer BBQs, offering endless flavor combinations and a fun cooking experience. From classic recipes like Margherita to gourmet options like Fig and Prosciutto, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, and create memorable meals that linger in everyone’s hearts. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and find your personal favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes grilled pizza recipes ideal for backyard BBQ nights?

Grilled pizza recipes bring smoky flavor, fast cook times, and hands‑on fun to backyard gatherings. With outdoor cooking on the grill, you can serve a crowd‑pleasing spread of summer recipes in minutes. Let guests customize toppings on their own pies, turning your barbecue ideas into a playful, interactive event. And since these are grilled pizza recipes, cleanup is quick and dinner can be ready before the sun sets.

What equipment and tools do I need for easy grilling of pizzas?

Here’s a simple gear list for easy grilling of pizzas: a reliable grill; a pizza stone or baking steel (preferred for a crisp crust); a wooden pizza peel to slide pies on and off; a grill‑safe perforated pan if you don’t have a stone; tongs and a spatula; a small brush for oil; and a thermometer or timer to monitor grill heat. Have bowls or plates ready for toppings to speed things up during outdoor cooking.

How should I choose toppings for grilled pizzas to avoid soggy results?

Choose toppings that cook quickly or are pre‑cooked, and keep moisture in check. Precook meats, drain watering vegetables, and slice tomatoes thin or use roasted tomatoes. Brush the crust with a light layer of olive oil to help crisp it, and layer cheese as a moisture barrier. Plan combinations that pair well with summer flavors, and keep toppings light so the crust stays crisp during summer recipes.

Can I grill pizza without a stone or steel?

Absolutely. You can grill directly on the grates, or use a sheet of foil or a cast‑iron skillet as a base. For best results, par‑bake the crust on the grill for a few minutes before adding toppings, then finish with the lid closed to melt cheese and heat toppings evenly. This keeps things simple and gives you tasty results without specialized stone or steel equipment.

What are top tips to keep crust crispy and cheese melted on grilled pizzas?

Preheat the grill to high and oil the dough lightly to prevent sticking. Start with a brief crust bake, then add toppings and finish with direct heat to melt cheese quickly. Rotate the pizza so you don’t get hot spots, and avoid overloaded toppings that trap moisture. Use a good melting cheese blend for a bubbly finish, and consider finishing with a quick sear to boost crust texture for your grilled pizza recipes.

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