The star died in her hotel room on 11 February last year.
Speaking at a pre-Grammy gala in Los Angeles, Grohl said Houston would be remembered "as one of the most iconic vocalists of all time."
"Not only did she sell 800 bazillion records," he added, "but she's [an] amazing singer".
Grohl was speaking to The Hollywood Reporter at music industry mogul Clive Davis's annual pre-Grammy party.
Houston had been due to attend last year's event, but died hours before it took place.
R&B singer and actress Brandy said: "She was the greatest voice of all time and nobody will ever come close to touching her. I will never forget her."