Introduction
Making pizza on the Arteflame grill is a perfect way to get that crispy, smoky flavor. The flat-top griddle creates a beautifully charred crust, while the cheese melts to perfection. This recipe will show you how to achieve the best grilled cheese pizza using simple ingredients and the Arteflame Pizza Oven attachment for an unbeatable outdoor pizza-making experience.
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the cooktop)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional garnish)
- Flour (for dusting)
Instructions
1. Fire Up the Arteflame Grill
To get started, fire up your Arteflame grill by soaking three paper napkins with vegetable oil, stacking firewood over them, and lighting the grill. Let it heat up for about 20 minutes, reaching a high temperature perfect for pizza grilling. If you're using the optional Arteflame Pizza Oven attachment, set it up over the flat-top cooktop for even cooking.
2. Prepare the Dough
While your grill heats up, dust your work surface with flour and stretch the pizza dough into a 12-inch round. Make sure it's thin enough for a crispy crust but thick enough to hold the sauce and cheese.
3. Preheat the Flat-Top Griddle
Add a tablespoon of butter to the Arteflame's flat-top cooktop, spreading it around to prevent sticking and to add flavor to your crust. Place the pizza dough directly on the flat-top, near the hotter center for a quick initial cook.
4. Add Sauce and Cheese
Once the bottom of the pizza begins to set (about 2 minutes), flip it. Quickly spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about an inch around the edge for the crust. Then generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Season with dried oregano and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
5. Bake in the Pizza Oven
If using the Arteflame Pizza Oven attachment, place the pizza inside. The surrounding heat will cook the top of the pizza while the flat-top griddle ensures a crisp bottom. Close the opening with the included metal door and allow the pizza to bake for 7-10 minutes, rotating it halfway through.
If you're not using the pizza oven, simply cover the pizza with a large metal bowl to mimic oven-like conditions, or cook it uncovered while keeping a close eye on the cheese melting. The goal is a bubbly, golden-brown cheese top and a crispy crust.
6. Remove and Serve
When the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is perfectly charred, carefully remove the pizza from the grill. Let it rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to settle. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Slice and serve immediately!
Tips
- Make sure to keep an eye on the pizza as the flat-top griddle can cook it quickly, especially near the center where it’s hottest.
- Rotate the pizza often for even cooking if you're not using the pizza oven attachment.
- Control the heat: do not put any firewood directly under the pizza, this will cause the crust to bake faster than the toppings.
- Let the pizza rest for a couple of minutes before cutting to avoid a messy slice and allow the cheese to firm up slightly.
Conclusion
Grilling a cheese pizza on the Arteflame brings out amazing flavors and creates the perfect blend of crispy crust and gooey cheese. This simple recipe is a great way to enjoy pizza with a wood-fired flavor without needing a traditional pizza oven.
Variations
- Margherita Pizza: Add fresh slices of mozzarella and tomatoes before grilling. Garnish with fresh basil.
- Four Cheese Pizza: Mix mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone, and blue cheese for a rich flavor.
- Pepperoni Pizza: Add thin slices of pepperoni on top of the mozzarella before baking.
- BBQ Chicken Pizza: Use BBQ sauce instead of pizza sauce and top with grilled chicken, red onions, and cilantro.
- Veggie Pizza: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and olives along with the cheese for a healthy twist.
Best Pairings
- A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Grilled vegetables on the side (zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers)
- A cold beer or chilled sparkling water
