Grilled Cacio e Pepe Pizza is a delightful twist on a classic dish. Imagine biting into a crispy, grilled pizza crust topped with gooey, melted cheese and a generous sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. This recipe is perfect for a casual dinner or an easy weeknight meal, and it brings together flavors that are both comforting and bold. Get ready to elevate your pizza game with this simple yet delicious recipe!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 400
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
Why Make This Grilled Cacio e Pepe Pizza
This Grilled Cheese and Pepper Pizza offers an amazing blend of textures and flavors. The crispiness of the grilled crust pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of Pecorino Romano and Parmesan cheese. Add the kick of freshly cracked black pepper, and you have a pizza that tantalizes your taste buds. It’s an excellent choice for pizza lovers who want something new without straying too far from tradition.
How to Make Grilled Cacio e Pepe Pizza
Ingredients:
- 1 pizza dough
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
- Olive oil
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the grill on medium-high heat, so it’s nice and hot when your pizza dough is ready. This step is crucial for getting that irresistible grilled flavor.
Step 2: Rolling Out the Dough
Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. A thinner crust will yield a crispier bite, while a thicker crust will be more chewy.
Step 3: Grilling the Base
Brush one side of the dough with olive oil and place it on the grill, oiled side down. Grill for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is charred and crispy. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 4: Adding Cheese and Pepper
Flip the dough and sprinkle the Pecorino Romano and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top. Add the freshly cracked black pepper generously. The heat will enhance the pepper’s flavor!
Step 5: Melting the Cheese
Close the grill lid and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese starts to show a tempting golden color.
Step 6: Serving Hot
Remove from the grill, slice, and serve hot. Enjoy the cheesy goodness with every bite!
How to Serve Grilled Cacio e Pepe Pizza
This pizza pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some grilled vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra flavor boost. It’s also a fantastic appetizer for gatherings and parties!
How to Store Grilled Cacio e Pepe Pizza
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), let the pizza cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it back on the grill or in a toaster oven to restore its crispy texture.
Expert Tips for Perfect Grilled Cacio e Pepe Pizza
- Grill Temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated well to ensure that the dough cooks evenly and gets that nice char.
- Cheese Varieties: Feel free to mix in different cheeses such as mozzarella for extra meltiness or add a spicy cheese for a kick.
- Add Vegetables: Consider adding sliced bell peppers or onions on top of the cheese for added flavor and nutrition.
Delicious Variations
- Garlic Herb Oil: Brush the dough with a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, and herbs before grilling for an aromatic flavor boost.
- Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes along with the black pepper for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Meat Lover’s Option: Top the pizza with sliced salami or pepperoni for a heartier meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saver and works perfectly for this recipe. -
Is there a vegetarian option for the cheese?
Absolutely! You can use vegetarian Parmesan cheese to keep it meat-free. -
What type of grill is best?
A gas grill works well, but a charcoal grill adds a lovely smoky flavor if you prefer that. -
Can I bake this pizza in the oven instead?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 450°F and bake for about 10-12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. -
Can I freeze the pizza?
For best results, freeze the uncooked pizza. Just wrap it well in plastic film and foil and use it within a couple of months.
Conclusion
Grilled Cheese and Pepper Pizza is not just a meal, but an experience! It’s quick, simple, and, most importantly, delicious. With its crispy crust, rich cheeses, and peppery kick, this recipe is bound to become a favorite at your table. Give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Grilled Cheese and Pepper Pizza
- Author: hannah-belssy
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist on a classic dish featuring a crispy grilled pizza crust topped with gooey cheeses and freshly cracked black pepper.
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the grill on medium-high heat.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to desired thickness.
- Brush one side of the dough with olive oil and place it on the grill, oiled side down. Grill for 2-3 minutes until charred and crispy.
- Flip the dough, sprinkle with Pecorino Romano and Parmesan cheeses, and add freshly cracked black pepper.
- Close the grill lid and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the grill, slice, and serve hot.
Notes
Pair with a light salad or grilled vegetables. Great for gatherings and parties.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 25mg