Ultimate Grilled Burrata Pizza Recipe: Your Go-To for Flavorful Summer Entertaining

Discover the ultimate Grilled Burrata Pizza, a fresh and irresistible take on outdoor cooking perfect for any summer evening gathering. This gourmet pizza features a perfectly grilled dough base, generously topped with vibrant tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, savory crispy fried prosciutto, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fragrant fresh basil, and of course, luscious, soft burrata cheese. Get ready to fire up your grill and impress your taste buds!

About This Grilled Burrata Pizza

This isn’t just a pizza; it’s a culinary revelation, especially for those warm summer evenings. I can confidently say this Grilled Burrata Pizza has earned its spot as my new all-time favorite. While I’ve always loved burrata, experiencing it melted and slightly warmed atop a perfectly grilled crust truly elevates it to an unparalleled level of deliciousness.

The inspiration for this exquisite pizza actually stems from a memorable trip to Italy, specifically the enchanting island of Burano. If you ever find yourself in Venice, I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to Burano – it’s a magical place with its canals lined by vividly colored buildings and incredible local pizza. The prosciutto pizza we enjoyed there was fantastic, but it sparked a thought: what if the prosciutto were crispy? That textural contrast, I imagined, would be nothing short of extraordinary.

Thus, the journey of evolving that simple pizza concept began. It culminated in this recipe, perfecting the crispy prosciutto and then crowning it with generous dollops of creamy, fresh burrata. The blend of savory, salty, tangy, and rich textures in every bite is simply unbeatable. For an extra layer of flavor, consider drizzling some hot honey over the pizza after it comes off the grill. It introduces a subtle sweet heat that perfectly complements the other ingredients.

If a full pizza isn’t in the cards today, but you’re craving similar flavors, my four cheese pizza dip makes a fantastic appetizer for your next gathering!

What Exactly is Burrata?

Often mistaken for a simple mozzarella ball, burrata is a soft Italian cheese that offers a delightful surprise. Its name, meaning “buttered” in Italian, perfectly describes its rich and creamy interior. Burrata is crafted from cow’s milk (though sometimes buffalo milk is used) and consists of an outer shell of solid mozzarella. However, the magic happens inside: it’s filled with a delectable mix of stracciatella (shredded mozzarella curds) and fresh cream.

This unique composition gives burrata a significantly richer flavor and an incredibly luxurious, supple texture compared to traditional fresh mozzarella. When you slice into a ball of burrata, the creamy, milky interior gently oozes out, creating a truly decadent experience. While commonly enjoyed fresh in salads (like a caprese salad) or as a standalone appetizer with crusty bread, burrata is also phenomenal when added to warm dishes like pizza, stirred into pasta, or even served with roasted vegetables. Its mild, milky flavor and unparalleled creaminess make it a versatile ingredient that elevates any dish it graces.

Essential Ingredients for Grilled Burrata Pizza

Crafting the perfect grilled burrata pizza relies on a few high-quality, fresh ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

• Pizza Dough: The foundation of any great pizza! You have options here – you can embark on making your own homemade pizza dough (my garlic agave pizza crust is a fantastic, flavorful choice), or opt for convenience with store-bought. If buying, avoid the shelf-stable canned varieties often found near biscuits; they lack flavor and texture. Instead, seek out fresh pizza dough, typically located in the deli or refrigerated sections of grocery stores like Kroger, Whole Foods, or Trader Joe’s. Fresh dough makes a world of difference for a chewy, bubbly crust.
• Sauce: A flavorful base is key. Consider making your own homemade pizza sauce for a truly custom taste. If you prefer to buy, I highly recommend Rao’s marinara sauce. While it’s a bit of an investment, its rich, authentic flavor is absolutely worth it. Otherwise, use any high-quality tomato sauce from your favorite brand.
• Cheese: This pizza features a delightful dual-cheese approach. Start with a thin, even layer of shredded mozzarella cheese as the base. This provides classic cheesy goodness and helps bond the toppings. Then, the star of the show, burrata cheese, is added after grilling. This combination offers both the familiar melty texture of mozzarella and the luxurious, creamy bursts of burrata, making every bite incredibly satisfying.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These tangy gems add a concentrated burst of sweet and savory flavor that perfectly complements the rich cheeses and salty prosciutto. You can buy them pre-sliced in oil, or purchase whole ones and slice them yourself. Ensure they are well-drained before adding to the pizza to prevent excess moisture.
• Fresh Basil: Don’t underestimate the power of fresh herbs! Use vibrant, aromatic fresh basil leaves. You can either finely chop them or simply tear them by hand for a more rustic look and intense flavor release. Added post-grilling, the basil provides a beautiful, aromatic finish.
• Prosciutto: This Italian dry-cured ham brings a wonderful salty depth to the pizza. Unlike typical prosciutto that is added raw, in this recipe, we fry it until wonderfully crispy. This transformation adds an incredible textural element that perfectly contrasts the soft burrata and chewy crust.

Kitchen Tools for Perfect Grilled Burrata Pizza

To achieve grilled pizza perfection, you’ll need a few essential kitchen and grilling tools:

• A Grill: This is non-negotiable for grilled pizza! I personally love my Traeger grill, which uses wood pellets for incredible smoky flavor. If you’re using a Traeger, their signature pellets are a great choice. Any gas grill or charcoal grill will work too. For a truly professional touch, you can even use a dedicated outdoor pizza oven if you have one!
• Pizza Stone: A pizza stone is highly recommended for achieving a crispy crust. It absorbs and radiates intense heat, mimicking a brick oven. Ensure your pizza stone is placed on the grill during preheating so it gets screaming hot.
• Pizza Peel: This flat, shovel-like tool is crucial for transferring your assembled pizza onto the hot grill or pizza stone, and then safely removing it once cooked. Dusting it with cornmeal or flour prevents sticking.
• Pizza Cutter or Scissors: For clean and easy slicing, a sharp pizza cutter or even pizza scissors will make serving a breeze.
• Nonstick Skillet: You’ll need your favorite nonstick skillet to fry the prosciutto until perfectly crispy.

How to Make Grilled Burrata Pizza (Step-by-Step)

Making pizza on the grill is a fun and rewarding experience that yields an exceptionally crispy and flavorful crust. Follow these steps for a perfect grilled burrata pizza:

1. Prepare and Assemble Your Pizza

Begin by preheating your grill to a very high heat, aiming for temperatures between 450˚F and 550˚F, or as high as your grill will go. For best results, place a pizza stone on the grill grates before preheating so it can reach the desired temperature along with the grill itself. This ensures an even, crispy crust.

While the grill heats up, stretch your pizza dough into your desired shape (round or rectangular) on a clean, lightly floured work surface. A sprinkle of cornmeal on your pizza peel (or parchment-lined baking sheet) will help prevent the dough from sticking when it’s time to transfer.

Next, evenly spread a thin layer of your chosen tomato sauce over the dough, leaving about a one-inch border around the edge for the crust. Follow this with an even layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.

2. Grill to Perfection

Carefully transfer the assembled pizza onto the preheated grill or pizza stone using your pizza peel or a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Close the grill lid to allow the heat to circulate and cook the toppings. Grill the pizza for approximately 5 to 10 minutes, or until the crust is beautifully browned and bubbly, and the mozzarella cheese is fully melted and slightly golden. It’s crucial to keep a close eye on the pizza during this stage, as direct heat can cause the bottom to cook very quickly and potentially burn.

3. Crispy Prosciutto Preparation

While your pizza is grilling, prepare the crispy prosciutto. Heat a medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the prosciutto strips to the hot pan in a single layer. Cook for about 1 minute per side, flipping once, until the prosciutto is rendered crisp and slightly browned. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes in total. Once crispy, remove the prosciutto from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess fat.

4. The Finishing Touches

Once the pizza is cooked to your liking, carefully remove it from the grill and transfer it to a serving plate or large cutting board. This is where the magic happens! Immediately top the hot pizza with the crispy fried prosciutto pieces, the tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and generous dollops of the soft, creamy burrata cheese. Finally, scatter fresh basil leaves over the top. Slice your grilled burrata pizza and serve it warm. For an extra savory kick, you can also sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the finished pizza.

Tips for Grilled Burrata Pizza Success

Mastering grilled pizza is easier than you think, especially with these helpful tips:

• Achieve the Hottest Grill Possible: This is arguably the most critical step for a truly great grilled pizza. Don’t just get the grill hot; let it preheat over high heat for a full 10 to 15 minutes before adding your pizza. This creates an intense cooking surface, mimicking a traditional pizza oven, which is essential for a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese. You can grill the dough directly on clean, oiled grates or use a pizza stone (my personal preference) that has been preheated along with the grill.
• Choose Quality Dough: While making your own dough is rewarding, pre-made pizza dough is a fantastic shortcut. However, not all pre-made dough is created equal. Skip the highly processed, shelf-stable options by big brands. Instead, look for fresh pizza dough in the refrigerated section of your grocery store, often found in the deli or bakery area. Stores like Kroger, Whole Foods, Sprouts Farmers Market, and similar often offer excellent fresh dough that will yield a much better texture and flavor.
• Prevent Sticking: Before transferring your pizza to the grill, ensure your pizza peel (or parchment paper) is generously dusted with cornmeal or flour. This acts as tiny ball bearings, allowing the dough to slide off smoothly onto the hot cooking surface.
• Don’t Overload Your Pizza: Less is often more with grilled pizza. Too many toppings can make the dough soggy, difficult to transfer, and prevent even cooking. Stick to a thin layer of sauce and cheese, and measured amounts of other toppings.
• Monitor Closely: Grilled pizza cooks very quickly due to the high heat. Stay by the grill and constantly monitor the crust to prevent burning. Use tongs to lift the edges and check the browning of the bottom.
• Add Some Heat: For those who love a bit of spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes over the finished pizza is a simple yet effective way to add a delightful kick. You could also experiment with a drizzle of spicy olive oil or even a dash of hot sauce.

Craving more delicious pizza recipes? Try these: Salsa Verde Chorizo Pizza | Pesto Greens Pizza | Last Minute Grilled Pizza Bar Party | Buffalo Chicken Pizza | Spicy Skillet Pepperoni Pizza

Can I Bake This Pizza in the Oven Instead?

Absolutely! While grilling imparts a unique smoky flavor and char that’s hard to beat, you can certainly achieve a fantastic burrata pizza in your home oven if you don’t have a grill or prefer indoor cooking. To do so, preheat your oven to its highest temperature, typically 500˚F to 550˚F. Just like with the grill, place a pizza stone or heavy baking steel into the oven while it preheats for at least 30-60 minutes. This is crucial for a crisp crust. Do not place the dough directly on the oven rack; always use a preheated pizza stone or a parchment-lined baking sheet for support. Follow the same assembly and cooking times, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.

Making Your Grilled Burrata Pizza Vegetarian

Yes, this recipe is easily adaptable for vegetarians! Simply skip the prosciutto entirely. The pizza will still be incredibly flavorful and rich thanks to the burrata, mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil. To compensate for the savory, salty element that prosciutto provides, I highly recommend a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the finished pizza. You could also consider adding other savory vegetarian toppings, such as sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers, to build back some of that umami depth.

Delicious Variations to Try

One of the best things about pizza is its versatility! Once you’ve mastered the basic grilled burrata pizza, feel free to experiment with these variations:

• Add Fresh Greens: After the pizza has come off the grill, top it off with a generous handful of fresh arugula that’s been lightly tossed with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The peppery greens and bright dressing add a wonderful fresh contrast to the rich pizza.
• Drizzle More Flavor: Enhance the flavor profile with an additional drizzle after cooking. Consider a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze for depth, or a vibrant basil pesto for an extra herbal kick. A drizzle of infused olive oil (like garlic or chili oil) could also be a fantastic addition.
• Spicy Kick: If you love heat, consider adding thinly sliced jalapeños or a generous pinch of red pepper flakes before grilling.
• Different Cheeses: While burrata is king here, you can experiment with other fresh cheeses like goat cheese crumbles or dollops of ricotta for varying textures and flavors.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add some pre-roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for extra nutrition and flavor.

Need some more inspiration for grilling? Check out my grilling recipes page for more delicious ideas!

What to Serve with Grilled Burrata Pizza

This savory and rich grilled burrata pizza pairs beautifully with lighter, brighter accompaniments that balance its decadence without weighing you down. Here are some perfect pairing suggestions:

• Side Salads: For a refreshing side, a crisp green salad with a vinaigrette is ideal. You could also try a bacon cranberry shaved brussels sprouts salad or a vibrant sweet and spicy broccolini for delicious additions that offer a delightful textural and flavor contrast.
• Appetizers: Before the main event, a light and fresh appetizer would be perfect. A burrata caprese, featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic, is an instant favorite that beautifully foreshadows the main course.
• Cocktails: To complement the meal, consider refreshing cocktails. A sparkling whiskey sour or a gin sling both offer a lighter, more refreshing flair that cuts through the richness of the pizza beautifully, making them super refreshing choices for a summer evening.
• Dessert: To round off your meal with a sweet note, make the most of seasonal produce. A classic strawberry shortcake is an excellent summery dessert that is light, sweet, and satisfying.

How to Store Leftover Grilled Pizza

If you happen to have any leftovers of this delicious grilled burrata pizza, allow the cooked pizza to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, place the slices in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the leftover slices on a microwave-safe plate and warm them through in the microwave until heated to your desired temperature. For a crispier crust, you can also reheat slices in a toaster oven or on a skillet over medium heat.

Finally, if you try this grilled burrata pizza recipe, please take a moment to give it a rating or leave a comment below! I genuinely love hearing when you recreate my recipes, and I make an effort to respond to every single comment. Feel free to ask any questions you might have about the process or ingredients.

Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you share your creations! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite thing, and it means the world to me. For the latest recipes and news, sign up for my newsletter to get them delivered straight to your inbox!

Grilled Burrata Pizza

Crispy grilled pizza dough topped with tangy tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, savory crispy prosciutto, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy burrata! A perfect summer meal.

Prep Time:
10 minutes mins

Cook Time:
10 minutes mins

Total Time:
20 minutes mins

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Equipment

• 3-Piece Bamboo Cutting Board Set
• Dreamfarm Scizza Pizza Scissors
• Pizza Stone
• Traeger Lil Tex Elite 34 Pellet Grill

Ingredients

• 1 lb pizza dough homemade or fresh store-bought
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/3 cup sliced sun-dried tomatoes drained
• 5 to 8 fresh basil leaves
• 6 slices prosciutto torn into strips
• 1-2 balls of burrata

Instructions

• Place a pizza stone on the grill and preheat over medium-high heat (about 550˚F). Ensure it’s hot for at least 10-15 minutes.
• Stretch dough into desired shape on a lightly floured surface. Place it on a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal for easy transfer.
• Evenly spread a thin layer of tomato sauce and shredded mozzarella onto the top of the pizza dough, leaving an inch border for the crust.
• Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated grill or pizza stone. Grill for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the crust is browned and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Monitor closely to prevent the bottom from burning.
• While the pizza is cooking, heat a medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add prosciutto strips to the pan and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
• Once grilled, remove the pizza from the grill to a cutting board. Top with the fried prosciutto, fresh basil, sun-dried tomatoes, and dollops of soft burrata. Slice and serve immediately.

Cuisine:
Italian-Inspired, Grilling

Category:
Pizza & Flatbreads, Summer Recipes