New Jersey Boardwalk Sausage and Pepperoni Pizza

Introduction

Nothing brings you closer to the iconic flavors of the Jersey Shore like a grilled Boardwalk-Style Sausage and Pepperoni Pizza. Made entirely on the Arteflame grill, this thin crust pizza features spicy sausage, crispy pepperoni, and melty cheese with a slightly smoky flavor thanks to live fire cooking. If you’ve never used an Arteflame before, this recipe will show you just how versatile — and delicious — open-fire grilling can be.

Ingredients

• 1 ball of pizza dough (preferably thin crust, about 12 inches)
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce (your favorite)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup spicy Italian sausage, crumbled
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for griddle seasoning)
• 1 tablespoon cornmeal (to prevent sticking)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Get the Arteflame Ready for Grilling

1. Pour a little vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack hardwood firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Let the fire build and the cooktop heat for about 20 minutes until the griddle and grill grate are hot.

Step 2: Pre-Cook the Sausage on the Grill

1. Place the crumbled sausage on the hot center grill grate to sear at over 1,000°F.
2. Sear until browned on all sides (about 1–2 minutes), then move it to the flat griddle cooktop to finish cooking.
3. Cook until the sausage reaches an internal temperature of 160°F, then remove and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Pizza Dough

1. Lightly dust a pizza peel or wooden board with cornmeal.
2. Stretch the pizza dough into a 12-inch round and place it on the prepared peel.
3. Brush the top lightly with some melted butter for flavor and crispiness.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

1. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough.
2. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
3. Add the pre-cooked spicy sausage and layer with pepperoni slices.

Step 5: Grill the Pizza on the Arteflame

1. Carefully slide the pizza onto the hot flat cooktop near the center (for high heat searing of crust).
2. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, rotating the pizza occasionally for even heat exposure.
3. The cheese should be fully melted, pepperoni edges crispy and bottom crust golden brown.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

1. Remove pizza from the grill and let rest for 2 minutes.
2. Top with fresh basil leaves if using.
3. Slice and serve immediately while hot.

Tips

• Use butter to brush the crust for enhanced flavor and a golden finish.
• Reverse sear all meats by starting on the center grill grate and finishing on the cooktop.
• Remove meats when 15°F below target internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
• Keep a clean pizza peel ready so it slides smoothly on and off the flat cooktop.
• Use cornmeal or semolina under the dough to prevent sticking and get that crispy edge.

Variations

1. Garden Veggie Delight: Swap sausage and pepperoni for grilled bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and onions.
2. White Garlic Pizza: Use a garlic butter base instead of tomato sauce; top with ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan.
3. Buffalo Chicken Pizza: Use shredded grilled chicken tossed in buffalo sauce, mozzarella, and blue cheese crumbles.
4. Meat Lover’s Inferno: Add bacon, prosciutto, and chorizo to the sausage and pepperoni base for an extra punch.
5. Margarita Style: Use fresh tomato slices, buffalo mozzarella, and whole basil leaves with a light drizzle of olive oil before grilling.

Best pairings

• Cold craft IPA or pilsner
• Chopped Italian salad with vinaigrette
• Grilled garlic bread on the Arteflame
• Charred fire-roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts
• Classic cannoli or Italian ices for dessert

Conclusion

Grilling pizza on the Arteflame turns your backyard into a New Jersey boardwalk pizzeria. The live fire, the sizzling meat, the artisan crust — it’s all part of an unforgettable, crave-worthy experience. Perfect for summer nights or gameday gatherings, this pizza teaches you just how powerful flavor can be when fire meets steel.