Best Grill For Pizza – Crispy Crusts And Melted Perfection!

You’ve attempted homemade pizza on your regular grill, but it always falls short of that wood-fired, pizzeria-quality perfection. The struggle lies in finding the right equipment to turn your backyard into a pizza paradise: “What is the best grill for pizza?”.

In the following article, you’ll gain valuable insights into the features and capabilities of these grills, empowering you to make an informed decision. Whether you’re seeking smoky authenticity or convenient pizza crafting, we’ve got the ultimate solutions for you. We’ll also share tips on how to grill the perfect pizza, every time.

HOW DOES A PIZZA GRILL WORK?

Ah, pizza. It’s a universal favorite. We love its cheesy goodness, the aroma of freshly baked crust, and the delightful toppings that dance on our taste buds. 

The Core Concept of the Pizza Grill

At the heart of any pizza grill is the pizza stone. This is a flat, typically round slab made of ceramic or cordierite that helps in achieving that perfect crispy crust. The stone absorbs the heat from the grill and distributes it evenly, ensuring the base cooks uniformly.

The magic of the pizza grill lies in its ability to produce high heat and facilitate direct grilling. Grilled pizzas often boast a smokier flavor compared to their oven counterparts, thanks to the direct exposure to flames. This high-heat and direct method can yield a crust that’s crispy on the outside but soft and fluffy on the inside.

The Grilling Process

Pizza grills are specially designed to cook pizza at high temperatures without burning it. They typically have a domed lid that helps to trap the heat and circulate it evenly around the pizza. Pizza grills also often have a built-in pizza stone, which helps to create a crispy crust.

The heat from the pizza grill is transferred to the pizza in two ways: by conduction and by convection. Conduction is the transfer of heat from one object to another through direct contact. The pizza crust directly contacts the hot pizza stone, which causes the crust to cook quickly and evenly. Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of hot air. The hot air inside the pizza grill circulates around the pizza, cooking it from all sides.

The domed lid of the pizza grill plays an important role in the cooking process. The lid helps to trap the heat inside the grill and prevents the pizza from drying out. The lid also helps to distribute the heat evenly around the pizza, ensuring that the crust and toppings cook evenly.

The pizza stone is another important component of the pizza grill. The pizza stone is a thick, flat stone that is placed on the bottom of the pizza grill. The pizza stone helps to absorb and retain heat, which helps to cook the pizza crust evenly. The pizza stone also helps to create a crispy crust by wicking away moisture from the dough.

The Flavor Enhancement

To add a delicious smoky flavor to your pizza crust, add wood chips to the grill. Different types of wood, such as cherry, hickory, or apple, will impart different characteristics to the flavor. Additionally, the lovely char marks on the bottom of the pizza are not just aesthetically pleasing; they also add a unique grilled flavor to every bite.

Toppings and Timing

Given the quick grilling time, some toppings may need pre-cooking. Ingredients like bell peppers, mushrooms, and certain meats benefit from a quick sauté before they land on your pizza dough. The swift cooking time on the grill ensures your pizza toppings remain fresh and retain their natural flavors.
 

BENEFITS OF HAVING A PIZZA GRILL

Pizza grills are a great way to cook delicious, wood-fired pizzas at home. They offer a number of benefits and advantages over traditional ovens, including: 

• Even cooking: Pizza grills have a domed lid that helps to trap the heat and circulate it evenly around the pizza. This ensures that the crust and toppings cook evenly, without burning.
• Crispy crust: Pizza grills typically have a built-in pizza stone, which helps to create a crispy crust. The pizza stone absorbs and retains heat, which helps to cook the crust quickly and evenly.
• Smoky flavor: Pizza grills can be used to cook pizzas with a delicious smoky flavor. This is because the wood chips that are used to fuel the grill impart a smoky flavor to the food.

TOP PICKS: THE BEST GRILLS FOR PIZZA

Commercial Chef Pizza Oven Outdoor – Gas Pizza Oven Propane

Outstanding features:

• Gas-Powered: Utilizes propane for quick and even heating.
• Temperature Control: Precise controls for perfect cooking.
• Durable Construction: Built to withstand regular outdoor use.

The Commercial Chef Pizza Oven Outdoor stands out as a high-performance grill tailored for those who seek convenience. 
This propane-fueled pizza oven offers consistent heat, ensuring evenly cooked pizzas every time. Designed for the outdoors, it boasts a robust build, allowing it to withstand varying weather conditions. The convenience of using propane means quick heat-up times and easy temperature control.
The oven also comes with a built-in thermometer, providing real-time temperature readings to achieve the perfect crust. With its powerful burners and efficient heat distribution, you’re guaranteed gourmet pizzas within minutes. 
Users can expect a seamless cooking experience, with a spacious interior that accommodates large pizzas. 

• Suitable for: Professional chefs, frequent party hosts, and culinary enthusiasts.
• How it Helps: Offers restaurant-quality pizzas with quick and even heating. Ideal for those who want to elevate their culinary game.
• Uses: Perfect for garden parties, culinary demonstrations, and weekend family gatherings. Also suitable for festive occasions and holiday dinners.

Our testimonial:
When I first fired up the Commercial Chef Pizza Oven, I was pleasantly surprised. It roared to life and reached the cooking temperature in just 15 minutes, shaving off a good 5 minutes from the time mentioned in the manual. The very first pizza I grilled had that ideal golden-brown crust, reminding me of my favorite pizzeria. Its sleek stainless steel felt premium to the touch, and with the roomy interior, I knew I was getting value for my money.

Specifications:

1. Temperature Range: Up to 700°F
2. Heat Source: Propane Gas
3. Weight: 70 lbs
4. Dimensions: 28″x21″x19″
5. Max Pizza Size: 16 inches

DNKMOR Outdoor Pizza Oven Wood Fire Wood

Outstanding features:

• Wood-Fired: Traditional wood-fired cooking experience.
• Heat Retention: Ensures even cooking of pizzas.
• Adjustable air vents provide optimal temperature control.

This wood-fired oven is not just an appliance; it’s a testament to classic pizza-making. Made for authentic pizza enthusiasts, it employs wood as its primary heat source, imparting a rustic, smoky flavor to pizzas. 
Constructed with durable materials, it promises longevity and resilience against outdoor elements. The oven’s design enhances heat retention, while its spacious chamber ensures consistent cooking. 
It captures the essence of traditional pizza baking, promising a sensory experience from the aroma of burning wood to the taste of perfectly charred crust.

• Suitable for: Traditional food lovers, rustic cooking enthusiasts, and homeowners with spacious outdoor setups.
• How it Helps: Brings the classic wood-fired taste, ideal for those who value authenticity in their dishes. Best for backyard barbecues, rustic-themed parties, and family reunions. An excellent choice for winter evenings and festive gatherings to enjoy a warm, smoky pizza.

Our testimonial:
Using the DNKMOR Outdoor Pizza Oven felt like taking a trip down memory lane. It took around 25 minutes to heat, a tad more than the manual’s estimate, but oh, the flavor! It was reminiscent of those rustic wood-fired pizzas I loved during my travels in Italy. The brick design gave it such a classic appeal, making me proud to show it off during backyard gatherings.

Specifications:

1. Temperature Range: Up to 750°F
2. Heat Source: Wood
3. Weight: 112 lbs
4. Dimensions: 30″x23″x80″
5. Max Pizza Size: 18 inches

Pizzello Outdoor Pizza Oven 16″ Large Wood Fired 2-Layer

Outstanding features:

• Dual-Layer Design: Can cook two pizzas simultaneously.
• Large Cooking Area: 16″ space for bigger pizzas or diverse dishes.
• Stylish and Functional: Aesthetic design suitable for outdoor kitchens.

The Pizzello Outdoor Pizza Oven offers a blend of capacity and authenticity. This 16″ wood-fired oven comes with a unique 2-layer design, allowing users to cook multiple pizzas simultaneously, making it ideal for gatherings or commercial use. 
The dual-layer system ensures even heat distribution for both tiers. Constructed using high-grade materials, it’s both stylish and durable. The ceramic insulation enhances heat retention, ensuring energy efficiency while promising a crispy base and well-cooked toppings. 
This oven combines traditional wood-fired techniques with modern design, making it a favorite among both traditionalists and contemporary pizza lovers.

• Suitable for: Large families, party planners, and individuals who frequently entertain guests.
• How it Helps: Its dual-layer design allows cooking multiple pizzas simultaneously, ensuring no guest waits too long. Ideal for birthdays, community gatherings, and any event where feeding a crowd quickly is essential,. Also suitable for family outings or picnics.

Our testimonial:
The Pizzello Oven was the talk of the evening during a recent family gathering. It took around 30 minutes for both layers to heat up. And being able to serve two large pizzas at once was fantastic—no more long waits! The rustic charm and the capacity were the perfect combination for my large family.

Specifications:

1. Temperature Range: Up to 700°F
2. Heat Source: Wood
3. Weight: 130 lbs
4. Dimensions: 36″x24″x76″
5. Max Pizza Size: 16 inches per layer

Pizzacraft PC7001 PizzaQue Deluxe Outdoor Pizza Oven Kettle Grill

Outstanding features:

• Kettle Grill Integration: Can transform a kettle grill into a pizza oven.
• Rapid Heating: reduces preheating time.
• Portable Design: Compact and suitable for limited spaces.

The Pizzacraft PC7001 PizzaQue Deluxe is a fusion of modern design and versatility. This outdoor pizza oven kettle grill offers a unique approach to pizza grilling. 
Designed for compatibility, it can seamlessly integrate with many traditional kettle grills, transforming them into pizza ovens. With its efficient heat distribution system, it promises evenly cooked pizzas with a delightful crust. 
It’s lightweight, portable, and perfect for outdoor gatherings or picnics. The built-in thermometer ensures you can monitor the temperature for optimal results. It’s a testament to innovative design, making gourmet pizza grilling accessible to everyone.

• Suitable for: compact homeowners, travelers, and those who enjoy portable cooking solutions.
• How it Helps: It easily integrates with kettle grills, making it an efficient two-in-one solution. Portable for on-the-go pizza making. Perfect for camping trips, beach outings, and picnics. Also suitable for small patios or balconies for daily use.

Our testimonial
I often go camping, and the Pizzacraft PC7001 was a game-changer. It heated up in a swift 10 minutes, way faster than I expected. I remember the amazed faces of my friends when I attached it to the kettle grill, transforming our campfire cooking game. It’s compact, quick, and a topic of conversation every trip.

Specifications:

1. Temperature Range: Up to 650°F
2. Heat Source: Charcoal (when attached to a kettle grill)
3. Weight: 25 lbs
4. Dimensions: 16″x16″x9″
5. Max Pizza Size: 15 inches

Hungry Chef Pizza Oven For Outdoor Grill

Outstanding features:

• Optimal Air Circulation: Ensures uniform cooking.
• User-Friendly: Easy operation and maintenance.
• Durable Build: robust construction for long-term use.

Elevate your grilling game with the Hungry Chef Pizza Oven for Outdoor Grill. Specifically designed to transform standard grills into a pizza baking haven, this oven is a must-have for those looking to diversify their grilling skills. 
Its universal design ensures compatibility with most grill models. Made with premium materials, it guarantees durability and consistent heat distribution. Its efficient airflow system amplifies the heat, ensuring pizzas are cooked to perfection within minutes. Portable and easy to install, this pizza oven is perfect for both casual family dinners and festive outdoor parties.

• Suitable for: Grill lovers, outdoor cooking enthusiasts, and homeowners with dedicated grill setups.
• How it Helps: It converts the regular grill into a pizza oven, maximizing the utility of existing cooking equipment. Great for Sunday family brunches, grill nights, and summer barbecues. A versatile addition for holidays like the Fourth of July or Labor Day.

Our testimonial

The first time I used the Hungry Chef Oven on my grill, it felt revolutionary. It aligned perfectly with the manufacturer’s heating time, getting hot and ready in 20 minutes. My grill nights now have an added attraction: pizzas! It’s built tough, and it feels like it’s made to last.

Specifications:

1. Temperature Range: Up to 680°F
2. Heat Source: Depends on the underlying grill (charcoal or gas)
3. Weight: 55 lbs
4. Dimensions: 24″x18″x7″
5. Max Pizza Size: 17 inches

Caprihom Large Pizza Baking Grilling Stone

Outstanding features:

• Even Heat Distribution: Guarantees a uniformly cooked crust.
• High-Temperature Tolerance: Made to withstand intense heat.
• Versatile Baking: Suitable for pizza, bread, pastries, and more.

The Caprihom Large Pizza Baking Grilling Stone is every pizza lover’s dream accessory. 
Made with high-quality ceramic, this stone ensures even heat distribution, resulting in a pizza with a crispy crust and perfectly cooked toppings. Its large size can accommodate bigger pizzas, making it ideal for families or social gatherings. 
Designed to resist high temperatures, it promises durability and performance. Its porous nature absorbs moisture from the dough, guaranteeing a crispy outcome every time. 

• Suitable for: baking enthusiasts, families, and anyone who enjoys a perfectly crisped pizza crust.
• How it Helps: It achieves an evenly cooked crust, enhancing the overall pizza quality. Also versatile for other baked goods. Excellent for weekend family dinners, baking sessions, and bread-making endeavors. Suitable for holidays like Thanksgiving, when baking is frequent.

Our testimonial
I always struggled with unevenly baked pizzas until I got the Caprihom Grilling Stone. It preheated faster than I’d anticipated, and the results were consistently great—a crisp crust every single time. It feels durable, and I’ve even tried it for baking bread. It is totally worth the investment.

Specifications:

1. Temperature Range: Can withstand up to 800°F
2. Heat Source: Oven/Grill Dependence
3. Weight: 9 lbs
4. Dimensions: 16″x16″x0.5″
5. Max Pizza Size: 16 inches
    

WHO SHOULD GET A PIZZA GRILL ?

1. Backyard Party Lovers:
Outdoor Fun
For those who love outdoor fun and BBQ weekends, adding a pizza grill is a great idea. It’s a fresh twist to regular BBQs and gives that yummy smoky taste to your pizza.

2. Kitchen Experimenters:
Try New Things & Food Lovers
If you love to try new things in the kitchen, this is for you. A pizza grill lets you play around with toppings and flavors. It’s a fresh way to enjoy your favorite meal.

3. People with Small Spaces:
Save Space
If you don’t have a big yard or balcony, don’t worry. Some pizza grills are made just for you. They’re small, easy to move, and perfect for any spot.

4. Those Who Love Get-Togethers:
Friends Over & Party Time
If you often have friends over, think about pizza grilling. Making and grilling pizzas together can be a fun activity for everyone.

5. Fans of Classic Tastes:
Old-School Flavors
Some people really love old-school flavors. A wood-fired pizza grill can give you that classic, traditional pizza taste right at home.

6. Families of All Sizes:
Meals Together & Fun for Kids
Pizza grills are great for meals together. Kids can have fun making their pizzas, and it’s a great way for families to spend time together.
 

TO WRAP IT UP
A pizza grill is more than just another kitchen tool. It’s fun, tasty, and great for everyone. If you fit into any of the groups above, think about getting one. Your pizza nights will never be the same again!