If you are craving a fresh, vibrant, and utterly delicious pizza that feels like summer on a plate, the Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe is your new best friend. This recipe brings together the classic elements of a Caprese salad—juicy tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a sweet balsamic glaze—on a perfectly charred, flavorful grilled crust. It’s not just pizza; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients elevated by the grill’s smokiness, all coming together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just treating yourself, this grilled Caprese pizza never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making a standout pizza, and this Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe relies on fresh and simple components that pack big flavor. Each ingredient plays an essential role—from the tender mozzarella that melts beautifully to the basil that adds aromatic brightness, every bite is a balance of textures and tastes.
- 1 pound pizza dough: Choose homemade or store-bought dough for the perfect chewy, crispy base.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Divided; adds richness and helps create that gorgeous grilled crust.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Imparts a subtle savory depth directly on the crust.
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced: Provides creamy, melty pockets of indulgence throughout the pizza.
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced: Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes to bring a bright, fresh flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick to balance the freshness.
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves: Gives that unmistakable aromatic lift and vibrant green color.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze: A sweet and tangy drizzle that finishes the pizza beautifully.
How to Make Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Heat the Grill
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Getting the grill to the right temperature is key since it will give you those enticing grill marks and a crust that’s crispy on the outside but tender inside. While waiting, lightly flour your surface and roll the pizza dough out to about 12 inches in diameter.
Step 2: Grill the First Side of the Dough
Brush one side of the dough with olive oil, then place that oiled side directly on the grill. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until bubbles begin to form and those perfect grill lines appear. This step builds the base for the pizza’s crunchy, smoky flavor.
Step 3: Flip and Add Toppings
Once you flip the dough over, immediately brush the grilled side with more olive oil and sprinkle the minced garlic evenly. Next, arrange the sliced mozzarella and tomato slices over the dough. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper for seasoning. This layering ensures every bite is rich and balanced.
Step 4: Finish Cooking with the Lid Closed
Close the grill lid to trap the heat and cook the pizza for another 3 to 5 minutes, or until the mozzarella melts beautifully and the crust becomes crisp and golden. This step melds all the flavors together and gives you that irresistible gooey cheese texture.
Step 5: Add Fresh Basil and Balsamic Glaze
Remove the pizza from the grill and immediately top it with fresh basil leaves. Finally, drizzle with balsamic glaze to add a touch of sweetness and tang, elevating your Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe to pure perfection. Slice and serve right away to enjoy the best texture and fresh flavors.
How to Serve Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few extra touches can take your grilled Caprese pizza to the next level. Try sprinkling freshly cracked black pepper after cooking, or adding a pinch of sea salt flakes for a delightful crunch. A few additional whole basil leaves serve as a vibrant, aromatic garnish that always impresses.
Side Dishes
This pizza pairs wonderfully with light and fresh sides. Consider serving with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or a simple arugula salad to complement the richness of the cheese. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon rounds out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, serve the pizza on a rustic wooden board with a small bowl of extra balsamic glaze on the side for dipping. For a more elegant presentation, cut into small appetizer-sized squares and garnish each with a tiny basil leaf, making it perfect for parties or entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover grilled Caprese pizza, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, keeping the cheese and toppings tasty though the crust may soften slightly.
Freezing
While the pizza is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual slices by placing them on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. Frozen slices should be consumed within one month for best quality.
Reheating
To reheat, avoid the microwave as it can make the crust soggy. Instead, warm slices in a preheated oven at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes or on a hot skillet to help restore some of the original crispness. Add fresh basil and a balsamic drizzle after reheating for that fresh finish.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough works perfectly and saves time, especially when you want to whip up this delicious pizza quickly. Just make sure it’s thawed and at room temperature before rolling out.
Is it possible to make this pizza indoors without a grill?
You can mimic the grilling effect using a hot pizza stone or cast-iron skillet in your oven, but the unique smoky flavor comes from the outdoor grill. For a close taste, broil for a few minutes, but grilling outdoors is highly recommended.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Yes! Adding grilled chicken or thin slices of prosciutto after cooking elevates this pizza to a heartier meal while still balancing the fresh Caprese flavors beautifully.
What type of balsamic glaze is best to use?
Choose a thick, high-quality balsamic glaze with a good balance of sweetness and acidity. You can also make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar until syrupy if you prefer a homemade touch.
How do I keep the pizza from sticking to the grill?
Brushing the dough generously with olive oil and preheating the grill well are key steps. You can also clean the grill grates just before cooking and lightly oil them to help prevent sticking.
Final Thoughts
The Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe is more than just a pizza; it’s a simple pleasure that brings fresh ingredients and the magic of the grill together in harmony. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, it’s guaranteed to become one of your favorite ways to enjoy the classic Caprese flavors with a fun, crispy twist. So fire up that grill and get ready to create a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Print
Grilled Caprese Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Grilled Caprese Pizza is a deliciously fresh and smoky Italian-inspired flatbread topped with melted mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for summer gatherings, this easy-to-make pizza combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with the irresistible char and crispness from grilling.
Ingredients
Pizza Base
- 1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
Toppings
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced)
- 2 medium tomatoes (sliced)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high to ensure it’s hot enough for cooking the pizza dough and ingredients evenly while achieving a nice char.
- Prepare the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to approximately 12 inches in diameter. Brush one side of the dough with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking and promote browning.
- Grill the dough – first side: Place the oiled side down directly onto the grill grates. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the dough shows bubbles and grill marks.
- Flip and oil the other side: Brush the top (uncooked) side of the dough with remaining olive oil, then flip the dough carefully on the grill. Quickly brush the newly exposed side with olive oil and sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over it for added flavor.
- Add toppings: Arrange the sliced mozzarella cheese and tomato slices evenly over the dough. Season the toppings with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Finish grilling: Close the grill lid and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese melts and the crust crisps up to your liking.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the pizza from the grill, top with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with balsamic glaze just before slicing and serving for a vibrant final touch.
Notes
- For a smoky flavor, grill tomato slices separately for 1 to 2 minutes before adding them to the pizza.
- Add prosciutto or grilled chicken to boost protein and create a heartier meal.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, grill the pizza a bit longer, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Use a pizza stone on the grill for an even cook and more consistent crust texture, if available.
