Welcome, pizza aficionados! If you’re a fan of outdoorsy cooking and want to bring the iconic **Papa Murphy’s** pizza experience to your backyard, you’re in the right place. Today, we delve deep into the world of **pizza grilling** and uncover the secrets of how to cook a Papa Murphy’s pizza on a gas grill. With this comprehensive guide, not only will you master the craft, but you’ll also stir up some serious envy among your friends and neighbors.
The Appeal of Grilling Pizza
Grilling pizza offers a unique flavor that traditional ovens just can’t match. The high, dry heat of a **gas grill** mimics a professional pizzeria’s brick oven, creating a perfectly crispy crust and beautifully melted cheese. This method also adds a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the pizza’s overall taste. If you love entertaining outdoors, nothing beats the experience of grilling a fresh Papa Murphy’s pizza under the open sky.
Getting Started: The Essentials
Before we dive into the actual grilling process, its essential to gather all the necessary equipment and ingredients. Heres what you’ll need to get started:
Ingredients:
- Papa Murphy’s pizza (freshly prepared)
- Olive oil (optional, for brushing the crust)
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnishing)
Equipment:
Note:
While you can use any **gas grill**, a model with temperature controls and a built-in thermometer is ideal. This allows for better heat management and ensures your pizza cooks evenly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Papa Murphy’s Pizza on a Gas Grill
Preheat Your Grill
Begin by preheating your **gas grill** to a temperature of 425F to 450F. Preheating is crucial because it ensures that the grill grates and the internal temperature are optimal for cooking a pizza. The time it takes to preheat will vary depending on your grill, but it usually takes about 10-15 minutes. During this time, make sure all burners are on to create an even distribution of heat.
Prepare Your Pizza
While your grill is preheating, unpack your Papa Murphy’s pizza from its wrapper. If you desire, you can brush the crust with a bit of olive oil for added flavor and crispness. This step is optional but highly recommended for those who love a crispy crust. At this stage, you can also sprinkle any additional fresh herbs or toppings you’d like to include.
Set Up for Indirect Heat
Getting the proper heat setup on your grill is crucial. Turn off the burner (or burners) directly beneath where the pizza will sit. This is called the indirect heating method and will help you avoid burning the bottom of your pizza while ensuring it cooks evenly. The indirect heating method mimics the way traditional brick ovens cook pizza, providing a well-balanced cook that leaves the crust crispy and the toppings perfectly melted.
Time to Grill
Once your grill is preheated and the pizza is ready, it’s time to transfer it to the grill. Carefully place the pizza on the grill grates in the area with indirect heat. Close the grill lid to maintain a consistent temperature. Check the pizza after about 10 minutes to ensure it’s cooking evenly. If it needs more time, close the lid and continue grilling, checking every 5 minutes until done.
Monitor and Rotate
Throughout the grilling process, you’ll want to keep a close eye on your pizza. Grills can have hot spots, so it’s important to rotate the pizza halfway through the cooking time for even cooking. Use a long-handled spatula or tongs to gently lift and turn the pizza. Be cautious, as the grill and pizza will be extremely hot.
Checking for Doneness
The pizza is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown. This process usually takes about 15-20 minutes but can vary depending on the thickness of the crust and the grill’s temperature. To ensure the bottom crust is fully cooked, use a spatula to lift the pizza and check for a nicely browned bottom.
Remove and Rest
Once your pizza is done, carefully remove it from the grill using a spatula or pizza peel. Place it on a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This rest period allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Your perfectly grilled Papa Murphy’s pizza is the star of the meal, but pairing it with some complementary sides can enhance your dining experience. Consider serving your pizza with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or some grilled vegetables. These side dishes add variety to your meal and balance the richness of the pizza.
Using the Right Tools
When it comes to cutting and serving your pizza, having the right tools on hand can make a big difference. A sharp, quality knife is essential for slicing through the crispy crust and gooey toppings effortlessly.
For more information on choosing the best knife for your kitchen, check out this guide on knife sharpening.
Cleaning Up
After enjoying your delicious grilled pizza, its time to tackle the cleanup. Cleaning your **gas grill** properly ensures it stays in top condition and ready for your next culinary adventure. For the grill grates, use a grill brush to scrub off any remaining food particles. For deeper cleaning, you can use a vinegar solution to loosen and remove any stubborn debris.
If you’ve used a **cutting board** for slicing your pizza, don’t forget to clean and condition it as well. For step-by-step guidance on maintaining your cutting board, this cutting board cleaning guide offers some excellent tips.
Final Thoughts
Cooking a Papa Murphy’s pizza on a gas grill is an enjoyable way to elevate your pizza night. The unique flavors and textures achieved through grilling add an extra layer of excitement to an already beloved meal. With the right tools and techniques, anyone can master the art of **pizza grilling** and impress their family and friends.
If you found this guide helpful and want to explore more about culinary techniques and tools, check out the collection of articles at Knives Genius.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
