This grilled pizza is a fun twist with sweet blackberries, fresh basil, and crispy bacon. The mix of flavors makes each bite exciting and delicious!
Who knew pizza could be so fancy? I love the surprise of sweet and savory. Plus, grilling it gives it that perfect smoky flavor. I can’t resist making this on sunny days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience, but homemade is tasty too! If you’re gluten-free, look for a gluten-free pizza dough option available in many stores.
Bacon: Regular bacon adds a great crunch. If you prefer a leaner option, try turkey bacon. For a vegetarian twist, use smoked tempeh or mushroom slices for a similar flavor profile.
Blackberries: Fresh blackberries work wonders here! If they’re out of season, consider frozen blackberries; just thaw them before use. Raspberries are a nice substitute for a slightly tart flavor too.
Basil: Fresh basil is essential for that vibrant flavor. If you don’t have it, try using fresh oregano or a sprinkle of dried herbs as an alternative, but adjust the quantity down since dried herbs are stronger.
Cheese: Mozzarella is my go-to for melting! If you want to enhance the flavor, mix in some cheddar or fontina. Goat cheese is optional but adds a unique creaminess; cream cheese can also make a delicious substitute!
How Do You Grill Pizza Without It Sticking?
Grilling pizza can be tricky when it comes to sticking. The good news is, with a few simple steps, you can avoid this hassle:
- Make sure to preheat your grill properly first. A hot grill helps create a sear that prevents sticking.
- Oil your pizza dough lightly on both sides. This creates a barrier between the dough and the grill grate.
- Use a pizza peel or a flat baking sheet to transfer the dough to the grill. Quickly place your dough on the grill for the first grilling side.
- Only flip the pizza once it has firmed up enough to hold its shape, usually after 2-3 minutes. Then, quickly add your toppings.
Remember, practice makes perfect! The more you grill, the easier it will become.
Blackberry Basil Bacon Grilled Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pizza dough ball (about 12 oz), store-bought or homemade
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled pizza takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook on the grill, making a total of roughly 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help the dough cook evenly and get those nice grill marks!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet, take your bacon slices and cook them over medium heat until they are crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, place the bacon on paper towels to drain excess grease, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Blackberry Mixture:
In a small bowl, gently mix the fresh blackberries with chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Roll Out the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll out your pizza dough into a round shape, roughly 12 inches in diameter. Brush both sides of the dough lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking on the grill.
5. Grill the Dough:
Carefully place the dough on the preheated grill. Close the lid and grill one side for about 2-3 minutes, until it’s firm and has nice grill marks.
6. Add Toppings:
Flip the dough over and quickly add your toppings: sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese, crumbled goat cheese (if you’re using it), the blackberry basil mixture, and the crumbled bacon on top.
7. Finish Grilling:
Close the grill lid again and let the pizza cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the crust is thoroughly cooked.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pizza from the grill. Let it cool for a minute or two, then slice it up and serve immediately. Enjoy the delightful mix of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors!
FAQ for Blackberry Basil Bacon Grilled Pizza
Can I Use Store-Bought Pizza Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a convenient option and works great for this recipe. Just make sure to follow package instructions for any pre-preparation steps.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you want a healthier or vegetarian option, try using turkey bacon, pancetta, or even smoked tempeh for that smoky flavor. You could also skip the meat entirely and load up on extra veggies!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in a hot oven for a few minutes or on a skillet over medium heat for a crispy crust.
Can I Use Different Fruits?
Yes! If blackberries aren’t available, raspberries or even sliced peaches could be delicious replacements. Just adjust the quantity based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose!
