Are you ready to take your pizza game to the next level? Forget takeout and frozen pizzas; with a Blackstone griddle, you can create authentic, delicious pizzas right in your backyard. This versatile cooking surface isn't just for breakfast; it’s perfect for crafting crispy-crusted, perfectly gooey pizzas that will impress your family and friends. These easy recipes are perfect for quick dinner ideas, offering a healthy and fun homemade cooking experience. Let's get started!
Blackstone Pizza Recipe: Classic Margherita
This recipe provides a foundation for countless pizza variations, showcasing the Blackstone's ability to deliver a fantastic crust. It's one of the best recipes for a simple yet satisfying meal.
Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 10-12 minutes Yields: 2 large pizzas
Ingredients:
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Pizza Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
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Pizza Sauce:
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
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Toppings:
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
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Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour and salt; mix until a shaggy dough forms. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add olive oil and knead for another minute. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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Make the Sauce: While the dough is rising, combine crushed tomatoes, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
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Prepare the Blackstone: Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). Lightly oil the surface.
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Assemble and Bake: Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Roll each half into a 12-inch circle or your desired shape. Carefully transfer the dough to the preheated griddle.
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Cook the Crust: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly browned and cooked through.
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Add Toppings: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over each crust, leaving a small border. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from the griddle, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and slice. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade pizza!
Tips for Blackstone Pizza Perfection:
- Use a pizza peel: This will make transferring the dough to the griddle much easier.
- Don't overcrowd the griddle: Give each pizza enough space to cook evenly.
- Experiment with toppings: Get creative with your favorite vegetables, meats, and cheeses!
- Monitor the heat: Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Variations:
- Pepperoni Pizza: Add pepperoni slices to the cheese before baking.
- Vegetarian Pizza: Use your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, onions, peppers, and olives.
- Meat Lovers Pizza: Load up with sausage, bacon, ham, and pepperoni.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 350-400
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This recipe is a great starting point for your Blackstone pizza adventures. Remember, the best part of homemade cooking is experimenting and finding your own perfect pizza combination! Enjoy!