cast iron skillet pizza on gas grill

Cooking Cast Iron Skillet Pizza on a Gas Grill

When it comes to outdoor cooking, few things can rival the experience of making pizza on a gas grill. Using a cast iron skillet not only simplifies the process but also enhances the pizza's flavor with a beautifully crisp crust. Here’s a step-by-step guide for you to create a mouth-watering cast iron skillet pizza on your gas grill.

Ingredients and Preparation

First, gather your ingredients. You will need a pre-made pizza dough, olive oil, tomato sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings—pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, and basil work wonderfully. Depending on your preference, you can also make the dough from scratch, but using pre-made dough saves time and effort.

Before you start cooking, prepare your grill. Preheat your gas grill to a high temperature, around 500°F (260°C). It’s essential to have the grill hot to ensure the cast iron skillet can create that coveted crispy crust.

Preparing the Skillet

While the grill heats up, take your cast iron skillet and lightly coat it with olive oil. This will prevent the dough from sticking and help in achieving that perfect golden-brown crust. Sprinkle a bit of flour or cornmeal in the skillet as well—this adds extra texture and flavor.

Next, roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Make sure it is slightly larger than your skillet’s diameter, as it will shrink a little when handled. Once rolled out, gently lay the dough into the prepared skillet, pushing it up the sides to form a crust.

Layering the Pizza

At this point, it’s time to layer your pizza. Start by spreading a generous amount of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving the edges clear for the crust. Sprinkle a rich layer of cheese on top, followed by your preferred toppings. The order of toppings can vary based on personal preference, but adding vegetables like bell peppers or onions beneath the cheese can help keep them tender and flavorful.

Grilling Time

Once your pizza is assembled, carefully place the cast iron skillet on the preheated grill. Close the grill lid and allow the pizza to cook for about 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on the pizza; the key is to achieve a bubbly cheese topping and a golden-brown crust. If you want a particularly crispy base, you can leave it on for a couple of additional minutes.

Serving the Pizza

After removing the skillet from the grill, let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing. This brief cooling period allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut. Serve your delicious cast iron skillet pizza hot, garnished with fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Conclusion

Cooking pizza on a gas grill using a cast iron skillet is not only an enjoyable activity but also a delightful way to savor homemade pizza outdoors. The high heat of the grill and the properties of cast iron combine to create a pizza that boasts a crispy crust and bubbly cheese, rivaling that of traditional pizzerias. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your friends or family to this delicious homemade creation!