How to Grill a Frozen Pizza on Charcoal?

Grilling pizza is a fantastic way to enjoy this classic dish, and using charcoal can add even more flavor to your creation. But what if you want to use a frozen pizza instead of making your own dough? Can you still achieve a delicious, crispy crust and melted toppings? The answer is yes, and in this article, I will share with you my step-by-step guide to grilling a frozen pizza on charcoal. I will also provide some useful tips for charcoal grilling in general, so you can create mouth-watering dishes every time.

Key Takeaways

Grilling a frozen pizza on charcoal is possible and can result in a delicious and unique flavor.
Follow the step-by-step guide provided in this article to achieve a perfectly grilled frozen pizza.
Charcoal grilling requires some specific techniques and practices, so be sure to read the charcoal grilling tips section as well.

Charcoal Grilling Tips

Grilling frozen pizza on charcoal may seem daunting, but with the right tips and techniques, you can achieve delicious results every time. Here are some essential charcoal grilling tips and best practices for grilling frozen pizza:

1. Preheat your grill

Before you start cooking your frozen pizza, make sure your charcoal grill is preheated to the right temperature. For frozen pizza, aim for a temperature of around 400-450°F. This will ensure that your pizza cooks evenly and achieves a crispy crust without burning.

2. Use indirect heat

One of the most important tips for charcoal grilling is to use indirect heat. This means placing the pizza away from the direct heat source, so it cooks evenly and doesn’t burn. You can do this by placing your pizza on the side of the grill opposite the charcoal.

3. Monitor cooking time

It’s crucial to monitor the cooking time closely when grilling frozen pizza on charcoal. Keep an eye on your pizza and check it frequently to ensure it’s cooking evenly. Depending on the thickness of the crust, cooking time can vary, so adjust accordingly.

4. Rotate and flip the pizza

To ensure even cooking, it’s a good idea to rotate and flip your pizza during the cooking process. Use a spatula to carefully flip the pizza over, and rotate it every few minutes to ensure even exposure to the heat.

5. Don’t overload with toppings

When it comes to frozen pizza on the grill, less is more. Avoid overloading your pizza with too many toppings, as this can prevent it from cooking evenly. Stick to a few simple toppings, and add more after the pizza is cooked if desired.

6. Let it rest

After your frozen pizza is cooked on the grill, resist the urge to slice and serve it immediately. Instead, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the cheese and toppings to set. This will also help prevent the pizza from becoming soggy.

By following these charcoal grilling tips and techniques, you’ll be able to grill a delicious frozen pizza on charcoal every time. Experiment with different toppings and crusts to find your favorite combination, and enjoy the smoky flavor that only charcoal grilling can provide.

Preparing the Charcoal Grill

Before grilling a frozen pizza on a charcoal grill, it is important to properly prepare the grill. Follow these steps to get the best results:

Start by cleaning the grates with a grill brush to remove any debris or residue from previous grilling sessions. This will ensure that the pizza does not stick to the grates.
Next, create a two-zone fire by placing charcoal on only one side of the grill. This will allow for indirect heat and prevent the pizza from burning or cooking too quickly.
Light the charcoal using a chimney starter or lighter fluid, and let it burn until it is covered with ash and glowing red. This should take about 15-20 minutes.

Spread the hot coals evenly on one side of the grill, creating a hot zone for searing the pizza.
Place an aluminum drip pan on the other side of the grill, under the grates, to catch any drips and prevent flare-ups.

Now that the grill is prepared, it’s time to make the charcoal grill frozen pizza recipe!

Grilling the Frozen Pizza

Now that the charcoal grill is prepared, it’s time to start grilling the frozen pizza. Follow these easy steps to achieve a perfectly grilled pizza:

Place the frozen pizza onto the preheated grill, directly on the grates. Be sure to close the lid immediately to ensure the grill stays hot and creates the desired smoky flavor.
After about 5-7 minutes, check the frozen pizza. The cheese should be melting and the crust should start to brown slightly.

If the crust is browning too quickly or the cheese is not melting, move the pizza to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat. Keep a close eye on the pizza to prevent it from burning.
After about 10-15 minutes, depending on the grill’s temperature, the pizza should be ready. Use a pizza peel or a spatula to remove the pizza from the grill.
Let the pizza rest for a few minutes before cutting and serving.

Here are some grilling frozen pizza techniques to ensure even cooking and the perfect smoky flavor:

Rotate the pizza occasionally to ensure even cooking and avoid burning.
Use a pizza stone or a cast-iron skillet to create a more even cooking surface and prevent the pizza from sticking to the grates.

Add some wood chips to the charcoal grill for an extra smoky flavor. Hickory, mesquite, and applewood are great choices.
For a crispy crust, brush the pizza dough with olive oil or garlic butter before grilling.

Checking for Doneness and Serving

After grilling a frozen pizza on charcoal, it’s important to check if it’s done before serving. To determine the right doneness, look for the crust’s color and texture. The crust should be golden brown and slightly crispy. Use a spatula to lift the pizza and check the bottom. The bottom should also be golden brown and slightly crispy. The cheese should be melted and bubbly.

If the pizza needs more cooking time, move it to a cooler area of the grill or reduce the heat. Cover the grill and continue to cook for a few more minutes, checking frequently. Avoid overcooking the pizza as it can become dry and burnt.

When the pizza is done, use a spatula to remove it from the grill and place it on a cutting board. Let the pizza rest for a few minutes before cutting it to allow the cheese to set. Cut the pizza into slices or squares and serve hot.

For best results, serve the grilled frozen pizza immediately. You can also add some extra toppings, such as fresh herbs, sliced tomatoes, or hot sauce, to enhance the flavors. Use these grilling frozen pizza techniques and best practices to impress your guests at your next outdoor party.

Conclusion

Grilling a frozen pizza on charcoal can seem like a daunting task, but by following these simple steps, you can achieve a delicious and smoky pizza that is sure to impress. Remember to prepare the grill and control the temperature for even cooking. Don’t forget to use the tips and techniques I shared for achieving the perfect crust, char, and smoky flavor.

And here’s a little secret: To add some extra flavor to your grilled frozen pizza, try experimenting with different toppings and ingredients. Whether it’s fresh herbs, different cheeses, or even adding some grilled vegetables, the possibilities are endless.

Frozen Pizza Grill Hacks

Here are some hacks to take your frozen pizza grilling game to the next level:

Use a pizza stone or pan to help distribute heat evenly and prevent burning.
Place a piece of parchment paper under the pizza to prevent sticking and make it easy to transfer the pizza onto the grill.
Try using wood chips or charcoal chunks for added smoky flavor.

If cooking multiple pizzas, use a separate area of the grill to keep the cooked pizzas warm while you finish cooking the others.

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be a pro at grilling frozen pizza on charcoal in no time. So fire up that grill, grab a frozen pizza, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.

FAQ

Q: Can I grill a frozen pizza on charcoal?

A: Yes, you can grill a frozen pizza on charcoal. Follow our step-by-step guide for the best results.

Q: How do I prepare the charcoal grill for grilling frozen pizza?

A: Start by lighting the charcoal and letting it burn until it turns gray. Then, arrange the coals for indirect heat. Place a pizza stone or a metal pizza pan on the grill to preheat.

Q: How long does it take to grill a frozen pizza on charcoal?

A: Cooking time can vary depending on the grill’s temperature and the size of the pizza. Generally, it takes around 10-15 minutes for a frozen pizza to cook on charcoal.

Q: Do I need to flip the frozen pizza while grilling?

A: It is generally not necessary to flip the frozen pizza while grilling. However, if you notice uneven cooking or want to achieve more char on the crust, you can carefully flip it using a spatula or grill tongs.

Q: How do I know if the grilled frozen pizza is done?

A: You can check if the pizza is done by looking at the color and texture of the crust. The crust should be golden brown and crispy, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.

Q: Any tips for serving grilled frozen pizza?

A: Once the pizza is done, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. You can garnish it with fresh herbs or drizzle with olive oil for extra flavor.

Author

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Michael Davis

Founder at Grill Gusto

I'm Michael R. Davis, the grilling fanatic behind GrillGusto.com. After getting my first grill in college 15 years ago, I was hooked and have been perfecting my barbecue skills ever since. When I'm not developing new recipes for the site, you can find me in my backyard grilling up juicy steaks, smoking tender ribs, and experimenting with rubs and grill setups. I created GrillGusto to share my passion for the art of grilling. Let's get grillin'!