Do you love indulging in delicious homemade pizzas but struggle to find the perfect grill to make them just right? Look no further! We’ve tested, ranked, and reviewed the best grills for pizza, so you can enjoy mouthwatering pies in the comfort of your own backyard. From wood-fired flavor to precise cooking control, we’ve got you covered with the top contenders in the pizza grilling game.
Weber Genesis E-325
Description The Weber Genesis E-325 is a grill that brings joy to pizza lovers like me. Its sleek design and sturdy construction make it a reliable companion for outdoor cooking adventures. Assembling the grill was a breeze, and I was excited to put it to the pizza test right away.
What Sets It Apart What makes the Weber Genesis E-325 stand out is its powerful heat output. The three high-performance burners ensure that the grill reaches the high temperatures necessary for that perfect, crispy pizza crust. I was impressed by the even heat distribution, which cooked the pizza evenly across the entire surface.
Review After a few pizza-making sessions with the Weber Genesis E-325, I can confidently say that it delivers on its promises. The large cooking area allowed me to cook multiple pizzas at once, perfect for family gatherings or pizza nights with friends. The built-in thermometer was a helpful feature, allowing me to monitor the cooking temperature without opening the lid and losing heat.
The grill’s performance extended beyond pizzas; I also used it for grilling steaks, vegetables, and even desserts like grilled peaches. The results were consistently delicious, making it a versatile addition to my outdoor cooking arsenal.
Rating I give the Weber Genesis E-325 a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. Its excellent heat control and large cooking area make it ideal for pizza enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys outdoor cooking. The only slight drawback is that it requires some assembly, but once that’s done, it’s a joy to use.
Traeger Ironwood
Description The Traeger Ironwood is a pellet grill that promises to elevate your pizza-making game. Its sleek appearance and wood-fired flavor piqued my curiosity, and I was eager to see how it performed.
What Sets It Apart The standout feature of the Traeger Ironwood is its wood pellet system. It imparts a unique smoky flavor to the pizza, reminiscent of traditional wood-fired ovens. The grill’s precision temperature control ensures that the crust cooks to perfection without any hotspots.
Review Using the Traeger Ironwood felt like a delightful journey into the world of wood-fired cooking. The wood pellet system was easy to use, and the grill quickly reached the desired temperature. The automated pellet feed allowed me to set it and forget it, focusing on preparing the pizza toppings while the grill did its magic.
The wood-fired flavor truly elevated the pizza’s taste, making it a hit among my family and friends. Beyond pizza, the Traeger Ironwood excelled at smoking meats and roasting vegetables, expanding its culinary possibilities.
Rating I give the Traeger Ironwood a glowing 5 out of 5 stars. Its wood-fired flavor, easy-to-use features, and versatile cooking capabilities make it a must-have for any outdoor cooking enthusiast. While it’s a bit on the higher price range, the delicious results it produces are worth every penny.
Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill
Description The Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill is a classic choice for those who savor the smoky goodness of charcoal-grilled pizza. Its timeless design and sturdy build instantly appealed to me, and I couldn’t wait to fire it up and start cooking.
What Sets It Apart What makes the Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill stand out is its unique Touch-N-Go gas ignition system. It takes the hassle out of lighting charcoal, providing a quick and convenient way to get the grill up and running. The built-in thermometer allowed me to monitor the temperature closely, achieving that perfectly charred crust.
Review As someone who appreciates the art of charcoal grilling, the Performer Deluxe didn’t disappoint. The gas ignition system made lighting the charcoal a breeze, and the grill reached cooking temperature in no time. The ample cooking area let me experiment with different pizza sizes and toppings.
The grill’s versatility was evident as I used it for grilling, smoking, and even baking. The charcoal flavor infused the pizzas with an authentic taste that brought me back to rustic pizzerias in Italy. Cleanup was also relatively easy, making it a practical choice for regular use.
Rating I give the Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill a solid 4 out of 5 stars. Its reliability, charcoal-grilled flavor, and convenience of the gas ignition system make it a worthy addition to any pizza lover’s arsenal. However, mastering the art of temperature control with charcoal might take a little practice for newcomers.
Blaze Prelude
Description The Blaze Prelude is a high-performance gas grill that promises to deliver professional-level pizza results at home. Its sleek stainless-steel design exudes elegance and durability, making it an appealing option for serious outdoor chefs.
What Sets It Apart The Blaze Prelude’s unique feature is its infrared burner system. This innovative technology ensures that the pizza cooks evenly and quickly, with a perfectly crisp crust. The grill’s high heat output allows for searing steaks and other dishes besides pizzas.
Review The Blaze Prelude truly impressed me with its performance. The infrared burner system was a game-changer for pizza-making, as it provided consistent heat across the pizza’s surface, avoiding any undercooked or burnt spots. The quick preheating allowed me to get cooking faster, saving time for hungry guests.
The grill’s construction and design exuded quality, and I could tell it was built to last. The high heat output made it a versatile grill for various cooking tasks, from pizzas to burgers and everything in between.
Rating I give the Blaze Prelude a stellar 4.8 out of 5 stars. Its infrared burner system and high-performance capabilities make it a top contender for those seeking professional-grade pizza results. While it comes with a higher price tag, its performance and durability justify the investment for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Weber Original Kettle
Description The Weber Original Kettle is a classic and budget-friendly option for pizza enthusiasts who prefer the simplicity of charcoal grilling. Its iconic round design and easy-to-use features made it a popular choice among outdoor cooking aficionados.
What Sets It Apart What makes the Weber Original Kettle stand out is its time-tested design and affordability. It may not have all the bells and whistles of more advanced grills, but it gets the job done. The adjustable air vents allow for precise temperature control, essential for achieving that perfect pizza crust.
Review The Weber Original Kettle exceeded my expectations in its performance and ease of use. Lighting the charcoal was straightforward, and the grill reached cooking temperature relatively quickly. I loved the smoky flavor it imparted to the pizzas, reminiscent of old-fashioned brick ovens.
Although the cooking area is not as large as some other grills on this list, it was sufficient for cooking pizzas for small gatherings. I found the grill’s simplicity refreshing; it brought me back to the basics of outdoor cooking.
Rating I give the Weber Original Kettle a solid 4.2 out of 5 stars. Its affordability, iconic design, and smoky flavor make it an excellent entry-level option for pizza enthusiasts or anyone new to charcoal grilling. However, those looking for more cooking space or additional features may want to explore other options.
Big Joe Grill Series II
Description The Big Joe Grill Series II is a heavyweight contender in the world of kamado grills. Its distinctive egg-shaped design and ceramic construction set it apart from traditional grills, promising exceptional heat retention and precise cooking control.
What Sets It Apart The Big Joe Grill Series II’s ceramic construction and double-thick walls give it excellent heat retention properties, making it ideal for pizza-making. It can maintain high temperatures for extended periods, perfect for achieving that crispy yet tender pizza crust. The Divide & Conquer cooking system allows for various cooking setups, enhancing its versatility.
Review I was blown away by the Big Joe Grill Series II’s performance. Once it reached the desired temperature, it held steady throughout the entire pizza-cooking process. The air-tight seal ensured minimal heat loss, and I was amazed by the efficiency of charcoal usage.
The Divide & Conquer cooking system allowed me to cook multiple pizzas at different temperatures simultaneously, catering to different preferences. The grill’s precision control over airflow and temperature gave me the confidence to experiment with various pizza recipes.
Rating I give the Big Joe Grill Series II an outstanding 4.9 out of 5 stars. Its superior heat retention, versatility, and precise cooking control make it a top-tier choice for serious pizza enthusiasts and outdoor cooking connoisseurs. While it comes with a higher price tag, its performance justifies the investment for those seeking the ultimate pizza grilling experience.
Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner
Description The Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner is a compact and affordable gas grill that delivers reliable performance for pizza lovers with limited space and budget. Its straightforward design and ease of use make it a popular choice for beginners and casual grillers.
What Sets It Apart The Char-Broil Classic 280’s standout feature is its compact size and affordability. It’s perfect for small patios or balconies where space is limited. Despite its size, it still offers two burners, allowing for separate heat zones when cooking pizzas or other dishes.
Review For those who are new to grilling or have limited outdoor space, the Char-Broil Classic 280 is a great entry-level option. It was easy to assemble, and the simple ignition system quickly got the burners up and running. The grill’s compact size didn’t compromise its ability to cook pizzas and other foods effectively.
The two burners provided enough heat for pizza-making, although it may take a bit of practice to get the temperature just right. The grill’s construction may not be as robust as some higher-end models, but with proper care and maintenance, it can serve you well for years.
Rating I give the Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner a solid 3.8 out of 5 stars. Its compact size, affordability, and ease of use make it an attractive choice for those with limited space or budget constraints. While it may not offer all the features of more expensive grills, it’s a reliable option for casual grillers and beginners.
Final Thoughts
In the quest for the best grill for pizza, each contender brings its unique strengths to the table. The Big Joe Grill Series II stands tall as the top choice for pizza enthusiasts seeking professional-level performance. Its superior heat retention and precise cooking control make it a favorite for those who take their outdoor cooking seriously. While it comes with a higher price tag, its exceptional results justify the investment.
For those craving that authentic wood-fired flavor, the Traeger Ironwood emerges as a compelling option. Its pellet system delivers a smoky taste that transports you to rustic pizzerias in Italy. Beyond pizzas, its versatility in grilling, smoking, and roasting opens up a world of culinary possibilities.
The Blaze Prelude takes a rightful spot among the top grills with its infrared burner system. This technology ensures even cooking and a perfect crust, making it a go-to choice for those who value precision. Its high heat output and sturdy construction add to its appeal for serious outdoor chefs.
On a more affordable note, the Weber Genesis E-325 delivers a powerful performance with even heat distribution. Its large cooking area accommodates multiple pizzas, making it a great choice for gatherings and events. Meanwhile, the Weber Original Kettle offers a budget-friendly option for those new to charcoal grilling, delivering that beloved smoky flavor without breaking the bank.
Lastly, the Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner caters to grillers with limited space and budget constraints. Its compact design and affordability make it an attractive choice for beginners or those with small patios.
Ultimately, the best grill for pizza depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors like cooking space, budget, desired features, and overall cooking versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting your outdoor cooking journey, each of these grills offers something unique to elevate your pizza-making game. With the right grill in hand, you’re ready to embark on a delicious adventure, creating scrumptious homemade pizzas that will impress family and friends alike. Happy grilling!
FAQ
Q: Can I use a gas grill to make pizza? Absolutely! Gas grills can be used to make delicious pizzas. Look for models with high heat output and even heat distribution for the best results. Some gas grills even come with features like infrared burners that mimic the intense heat of a traditional wood-fired oven, perfect for achieving that crispy crust.
Q: How do I clean and maintain my pizza grill? Proper cleaning and maintenance are essential for keeping your pizza grill in top shape. For gas grills, regularly clean the grates and burners with a grill brush and soapy water. Check the gas connections for any leaks and ensure the ignition system is working correctly. For charcoal grills, remove ash and leftover charcoal after each use, and clean the grates with a brush. Periodically inspect the vents and air intake for any blockages.
Q: What type of pizza stone or pizza steel should I use? Pizza stones and pizza steels are popular accessories for achieving a crispy pizza crust. Both help absorb and distribute heat evenly, preventing soggy bottoms. Pizza stones are made of ceramic or cordierite, while pizza steels are made of thick, heavy-duty steel. Ceramic stones are excellent for even heat distribution, while pizza steels offer quick heat transfer. Whichever you choose, ensure it fits your grill and follows the manufacturer’s recommendations for usage and care.
Q: How do I get the perfect pizza crust on the grill? Achieving the perfect pizza crust on the grill requires some practice, but it’s worth the effort. Preheat your grill to the highest temperature possible. If using a gas grill, preheat with all burners on high; for charcoal grills, ensure you have a hot bed of coals. Use a pizza stone or pizza steel to help distribute heat evenly and prevent sticking. Keep a close eye on the pizza, turning it occasionally to cook it evenly. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempts aren’t perfect.
Q: What other dishes can I cook on my pizza grill? Your pizza grill is a versatile cooking tool that can handle more than just pizzas. Use it to grill juicy steaks, smoky ribs, flavorful vegetables, and even desserts like grilled fruit. The high heat of the grill is perfect for searing meats and achieving that lovely charred flavor. Experiment with different recipes and ingredients to explore the full potential of your grill.
Q: Do I need to preheat the pizza stone or pizza steel? Yes, preheating the pizza stone or pizza steel is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. Place the stone or steel on the grill while preheating, allowing it to reach the desired temperature along with the grill. This step ensures that the pizza cooks evenly and avoids a soggy bottom.
Q: Can I make gluten-free or vegan pizzas on the grill? Absolutely! Your pizza grill is versatile enough to handle various pizza recipes, including gluten-free and vegan options. There are plenty of gluten-free pizza dough and vegan cheese alternatives available in stores or online. Get creative with your toppings and experiment with different flavors to cater to various dietary preferences.
Q: How do I know when my pizza is done cooking? The cooking time for pizzas on the grill can vary based on the grill’s temperature and the thickness of the crust. Generally, pizzas cook relatively quickly on a hot grill, so keep a close eye on it. The crust should be golden brown, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly. Use a pizza peel or spatula to lift the pizza slightly and check the bottom for doneness. When it’s crispy and slightly charred, your pizza is ready to be served and enjoyed.
Q: Can I use my grill in the winter or in cold weather? Yes, you can use your grill in the winter or cold weather, but there are a few things to consider. Gas grills might require slightly longer preheating in colder temperatures. For charcoal grills, avoid using them in enclosed spaces to prevent a build-up of harmful gases. Additionally, be mindful of the weather conditions, as strong winds can affect the grill’s performance and cooking times.
Q: What safety precautions should I take when using my pizza grill? When using your pizza grill, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines. Keep the grill at a safe distance from flammable materials and ensure proper ventilation if using indoors. Use long-handled grilling tools to prevent burns, and always keep a fire extinguisher or water source nearby in case of emergencies. After cooking, allow the grill to cool down before cleaning or moving it.