Are you ready to elevate your pizza game? Forget about ordering takeout; prepare to experience the unparalleled flavor of a pizza cooked on your Big Green Egg. This recipe delivers crispy, perfectly charred crust and melty, flavorful toppings—all from the comfort of your backyard. It's a fun, family-friendly activity that results in a truly delicious meal. Whether you're a seasoned Big Green Egg user or a curious beginner, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you to pizza perfection. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
For the Pizza Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Pizza Sauce:
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings: (Use your favorites!)
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
Making the Pizza Dough:
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the yeast mixture, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Making the Pizza Sauce:
- Sauté garlic: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Assembling and Cooking the Pizza on the Big Green Egg:
- Preheat the Big Green Egg: Preheat your Big Green Egg to 500-550°F (260-288°C), using the pizza stone or steel. Ensure the temperature is consistent.
- Prepare the dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it in half (or more, depending on your desired pizza size). On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion of dough into a 12-inch circle.
- Assemble the pizza: Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or upside-down baking sheet dusted with cornmeal. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and your desired toppings.
- Cook the pizza: Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone inside the Big Green Egg. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Rotate the pizza halfway through for even cooking.
- Serve immediately: Remove the pizza from the Big Green Egg using the pizza peel. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Tips:
- For an extra crispy crust, pre-bake the dough for a few minutes before adding toppings.
- Don't overload the pizza with toppings; this can prevent the crust from cooking properly.
- Use a pizza peel or a rimless baking sheet to easily transfer the pizza onto the hot stone.
- A pizza stone or steel is highly recommended for best results. It provides even heat distribution and a crispy crust.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Pizza: Use a variety of vegetables like spinach, onions, olives, and artichoke hearts.
- BBQ Chicken Pizza: Add grilled chicken, BBQ sauce, and red onions.
- White Pizza: Use a creamy garlic sauce instead of tomato sauce and top with ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and fresh herbs.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, will vary based on toppings):
- Calories: 300-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
Enjoy your homemade Big Green Egg pizza! This easy recipe guarantees a delicious and memorable meal, perfect for any occasion. The smoky flavor from the Big Green Egg adds a unique twist, making this pizza truly special. Experiment with different toppings and find your perfect combination!