There’s nothing quite like the taste of a freshly grilled pizza. And while many may opt for homemade dough and toppings, sometimes you just crave the convenience and flavor of a Papa Murphy’s take-and-bake pizza. But why stop at the oven when you can elevate your pizza experience by cooking it on the grill? Grilling adds a delightful smokiness and char to the crust while ensuring a perfectly cooked pie. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to grill your Papa Murphy’s pizza to perfection.
Preparation:
Grill type suitability:
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to consider the type of grill you have and its suitability for pizza. Gas, charcoal, and pellet grills each offer unique advantages and challenges when it comes to grilling pizza.
Gas Grill: Gas grills provide consistent heat and precise temperature control, making them an excellent choice for grilling pizza. They’re convenient and easy to use, making them ideal for beginners. However, gas grills may not impart as much smoky flavor as charcoal or pellet grills.
Charcoal Grill: Charcoal grills are prized for their ability to impart a rich, smoky flavor to foods. They can reach higher temperatures than gas grills, which is ideal for achieving a crispy crust. However, charcoal grills require more attention and skill to maintain a steady temperature.
Pellet Grill: Pellet grills offer the convenience of gas grills with the flavor of charcoal. They use wood pellets as fuel, imparting a delicious smoky flavor to the pizza. Pellet grills are versatile and can maintain consistent temperatures, making them a popular choice among grill enthusiasts.
Necessary equipment:
Regardless of the type of grill you use, you’ll need a few essential tools and equipment to grill your Papa Murphy’s pizza:
Pizza stone or pizza steel: A pizza stone or steel helps distribute heat evenly and creates a crispy crust.
Grill brush: To clean the grill grates and prevent sticking.
Pizza peel or large spatula: For transferring the pizza onto and off the grill.
Oven mitts: To protect your hands from the heat of the grill.
Pizza preparation:
Temperature considerations:
Grilling a pizza requires a higher temperature than baking in an oven. Preheat your grill to around 500-600°F (260-315°C) for optimal results. This high heat ensures that the crust cooks quickly and develops a crispy texture while melting the cheese and cooking the toppings.
Crust preparation:
Papa Murphy’s pizzas come with a raw, uncooked crust, which is perfect for grilling. Unlike oven baking, there’s no need to pre-bake the crust before adding toppings. The high heat of the grill will cook the crust evenly, resulting in a deliciously crispy base.
Grilling Process:
Step-by-step instructions:
Preheating the grill: Depending on your grill type, preheat it to the recommended temperature (500-600°F or 260-315°C). For gas grills, preheat with all burners on high for at least 10-15 minutes. For charcoal grills, light the charcoal and let it burn until covered with white ash, then spread it evenly across the bottom of the grill. For pellet grills, set the temperature to high and allow it to preheat for 10-15 minutes.
Placing the pizza: Once the grill is preheated, transfer the pizza onto the grill using a pizza peel or large spatula. If using a pizza stone or steel, place it on the grill grates before placing the pizza on top. Close the lid of the grill to trap the heat and ensure even cooking.
Cooking time: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the crust, the toppings, and the temperature of the grill. On average, a Papa Murphy’s pizza will take 10-15 minutes to cook on the grill. Keep a close eye on the pizza and rotate it occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Checking for doneness: To determine if the pizza is cooked through, look for a golden-brown crust, bubbling cheese, and melted toppings. Use a pizza peel or spatula to lift the edge of the pizza and check the underside for a crispy texture.
Tips and Tricks:
Controlling flame flare-ups:
To prevent flare-ups, avoid placing the pizza directly over the flames. If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals to create an indirect heat zone. For gas grills, lower the heat to medium once the pizza is on the grill to reduce the risk of flare-ups.
Achieving a crispy crust:
For a perfectly crispy crust, preheat your pizza stone or steel on the grill before placing the pizza on top. This helps create a sear on the bottom of the crust, resulting in a crunchy texture. You can also brush the edges of the crust with olive oil before grilling to enhance crispiness.
Flavor variations:
Experiment with different toppings and flavor combinations to customize your grilled pizza. Try adding grilled vegetables, fresh herbs, or spicy meats to elevate the taste profile. Don’t be afraid to get creative and mix and match your favorite ingredients.
Troubleshooting common problems:
If you encounter issues such as burning, uneven cooking, or sticking, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take. Lower the heat of the grill or move the pizza to a cooler area to prevent burning. Rotate the pizza occasionally to ensure even cooking on all sides. Use a pizza peel or spatula to gently lift the edges of the pizza if it sticks to the grill grates.
Conclusion:
Grilling Papa Murphy’s pizza is a fun and delicious way to enjoy your favorite take-and-bake pie. With the right equipment and techniques, you can achieve a crispy crust, melty cheese, and perfectly cooked toppings every time. Whether you’re using a gas, charcoal, or pellet grill, follow these step-by-step instructions and tips to grill your Papa Murphy’s pizza to perfection. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a slice of grilled goodness!
FAQs
What is the best way to cook a Papa Murphy’s pizza?
The best way to cook a Papa Murphy’s pizza is to follow the instructions provided on the packaging. Typically, you’ll preheat your oven to the recommended temperature (usually around 425°F), place the pizza directly on the oven rack, and bake it for the specified time (usually 12-18 minutes).
How do you cook a premade pizza on the grill?
Cooking a premade pizza on the grill can give it a delicious smoky flavor. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Place the pizza directly on the grill grates or on a pizza stone if you have one. Close the lid and cook for about 10-15 minutes, rotating the pizza halfway through to ensure even cooking.
How long do you cook a Papa Murphy’s pizza on a Traeger grill?
When cooking a Papa Murphy’s pizza on a Traeger grill, you’ll want to use indirect heat. Preheat your Traeger grill to 400°F and place the pizza directly on the grill grates or on a pizza stone. Cook for approximately 12-18 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.