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Are Pizza Ovens Worth the Hype in 2023?

Are pizza ovens worth the hype? Is investing in a pizza oven still worth it? Explore the pros and cons to make an informed decision about your next pizza oven.

Olivia Williams

Assistant Editor At Ovenreview.co.uk

June 17th, 2023

8 Minute Read

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Home pizza ovens have transformed the way we make pizza, offering the ability to reach temperatures that regular ovens or grills simply can’t match.

In this article we’ll take a look at how pizza ovens work, the different types and what makes a good oven. So are pizza ovens really worth the hype in 2023? Can pizza ovens really save us money?

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How do pizza ovens even work?

Pizza ovens work by using high temperatures and hot bases to cook pizzas faster than microwaves and regular ovens. While there are various types of pizza ovens, such as wood-fired, gas, electric, or even outdoor brick ovens, they all share the same principles.

Traditionally, wood-fired pizza ovens are able to produce the most authentic pizzas. These ovens are heated by burning wood logs or charcoal, which creates intense heat. The heat is then absorbed by the oven’s interior, typically made from bricks or stones. As the wood burns, it generates high levels of heat, which is evenly distributed throughout the oven chamber.

The oven’s design plays an important role in its functionality. Typically ovens will be shaped like a dome or a box. The dome or box shaped structure helps retain heat and ensures proper air circulation. In outside ovens, the floor is often made of tiles or stone, which absorbs heat, creating a hot surface on which the pizza is placed.

Wood ovens operate at around 700°F (370°C) or higher. After being preheated (electric ovens however don’t require preheat) the pizza is carefully slid onto the hot surface using a pizza peel. The intense heat quickly cooks the dough, causing it to rise and develop a crispy crust.

Gas and electric pizza ovens operate using the same principle but utilise different fuel sources. Gas ovens use burners to generate heat, while electric ovens rely on electric heating elements. These ovens offer more precise temperature control and faster preheating times compared to wood-fired ovens.

What are the different types of pizza ovens?

As I briefly spoke before, there are 3 main types of pizza ovens. Here are the 3 in more detail.

Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens:

- Wood-fired pizza ovens use wood as the fuel source to generate heat. All types of woods can be burned.
- The fire is built inside the oven, typically in a chamber. The wood is ignited and allowed to burn until it produces a bed of hot coals.
- The heat resistant materials used in the construction of the oven absorb the heat from the fire.
- The oven is preheated for a period of time to allow the walls, floor, and dome of the oven to reach the desired temperature, usually around 700-900°F (370-480°C).
- The pizzas are then placed directly on the hot floor or on a pizza peel, a long-handled tool, and slid into the oven. The intense heat cooks the pizza quickly, typically in just a few minutes.

Gas Pizza Ovens:

- Gas pizza ovens use natural gas or propane as the fuel source. They have gas burners that produce flames, which heat up the cooking chamber.
- The burners are ignited, and the temperature is controlled using gas valves or control knobs.
- Like wood-fired ovens, gas ovens are made from materials that absorb and distribute the heat evenly throughout the oven.
- Gas ovens can reach high temperatures quickly and are often used in shops and restaurants due to their convenience and temperature control capabilities.

Electric Pizza Ovens:

- Electric pizza ovens use electricity as the heat source. They have heating elements located at the top and bottom of the cooking chamber.
- The oven is plugged into an electrical outlet, and the temperature is controlled using a thermostat or digital controls.
- Electric ovens heat up relatively quickly and provide consistent temperature control.

What is a wood pellet oven?

Usually smaller pizza ovens simply don’t have the space for larger fires like some of the ovens on this list. Wood fueled, Compact ovens, use wooden pellets instead of logs or sticks. Wood pellets burn at a certain rate, allowing you to regulate the ovens temperature better and cook more authentic pizzas. Wood pellets are nothing special, nor expensive. Here is an example from Amazon.

Which type of pizza oven should I buy?

When choosing a pizza oven, it’s important to be aware of the types available.

Portable pizza ovens are perfect for those who are looking for flexibility in their outdoor setup or want to bring the oven along on camping trips. However, it’s worth mentioning their small size may limit the diameter of the pizzas you can make.

Pizza oven kits, on the other hand, usually require more thought. If you’re looking for a permanent fixture that cooks pizzas fast, a built in pizza oven is what you’re looking for.

For those who prefer indoor cooking, counter top ovens offer impressive temperatures and the ability to cook high-quality pizzas quickly. Indoor ovens provide precise temperature control and offer settings for various pizza styles, including:

Pan pizza
New York style
Wood-fired
Thin and crispy Chicago style

However, it’s important to note that building your own permanent pizza oven will cost a lot more than a counter top cooker.

What makes a good pizza oven?

A good pizza oven can heat up pizzas in less than 4 minutes whilst still keeping the authentic Italian taste. So when it comes to pizza ovens, you have the option to choose between wood/pellet-fired, gas or electric. Here are some pointers which make a good pizza oven.

Temperature control – Gas-fired ovens provide better temperature control compared to wood-fired ovens. This can be beneficial if you need precise control over the cooking temperature, especially for specific pizza types (e.g. gluten-free or vegan pizzas) that require lower temperatures. Gas ovens allow you to easily maintain the desired temperature.

Convenience – Gas ovens offer convenience and ease of use. Unlike wood-fired ovens that require a running fire, gas ovens allow you to set the temperature and forget about it. This is similar to the convenience of using a propane grill over a charcoal grill. If you’re looking for a pizza oven that can quickly cook weeknight meals, a gas-fired option is a great choice.

Flavor – While gas ovens provide convenience, wood-fired ovens offer a distinct flavor profile. The wood-burning process infuses the pizza with a smoky, charred taste that many pizza enthusiasts appreciate. If you’re passionate about achieving the authentic wood-fired flavor, a wood-fired oven is the way to go.

Are pizza ovens worth it?

Are pizza ovens really worth it? This video is great if you’re on the fence about getting pizza oven. Bryce also gives a live pizza cooking demo.

Safety tips when using a pizza oven

While pizza ovens are generally safe, you still need to consider the following safety measures:

Read the packaging. Some portable ovens are designed specifically to be used outside. For example the Ariete 909 can be used inside, but wood fired pellet ovens have open fires and chimneys which should only be used outside.
When using the oven outdoors, carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the required space between the oven and any surrounding walls. Some pizza ovens may require up to three feet of open space and ventilation.
If you plan to build your own pizza oven using a kit, follow the instructions or contact the manufacturer to get help.

What about pizza oven accessories?

Along with your pizza oven, it’s worth taking a look at some accessories that can make your cooking experience easier, especially if you have a garden oven.

Pizza Peels – It’s worth getting a couple of pizza peels. Pizza peels are large metal discs which are used to move the pizza to and from the oven, I prefer pizza peels with longer handles. Especially if you have a garden pizza oven they can get very hot.

French Steel or Cast Iron Pans – These pans are ideal for cooking foods, such as chicken wings and fish in your pizza oven. They are designed to withstand very hot environments.

Griddle Plate – A griddle plate is a flat cooking surface, typically made of cast iron or steel, that is used for cooking a variety of foods. Additionally, the flat surface of the griddle plate allows for easy flipping and turning of food items without the risk of them falling through grill grates.

Takeaway message

Investing in a pizza oven can enable you to achieve restaurant-quality pizzas. But it’s important to consider what you want to do with your oven. If you plan on taking it to events or gatherings, portable ovens are better. Whereas if you’re often the host, it’s worth looking at fixed garden alternatives.

FAQ

Are pizza ovens portable?

Portable pizza ovens are typically smaller and are designed to be light and compact, making them easier to handle and transport. Portable pizza ovens can use various different fuels, some use wood pellets for a more authentic taste, and some are just electrical. It’s really down to choice.

Can you build your own pizza oven?

Yes you can, and it’s easier than you think! A DIY pizza oven usually consists of a wood fire under a heated stone plate encased in a brick oven. The fumes created by the wood fire is then blown out of a chimney.

How much space do I need for a pizza oven?

The space required for a pizza oven depends on its size and type. Wood-fired ovens are typically larger. While smaller countertop ovens can fit in a compact kitchen or patio space. But again, this depends on personal preference.

Are pizza ovens energy-efficient?

Wood-fired ovens are not energy-efficient since they require continuous burning of wood. However, electric ovens offer better energy efficiency, as you have more control over the heat and can turn it off when not in use. Electric ovens also heat up quicker and don’t produce CO2.

How many types of pizza ovens are there?

There are various types of pizza ovens, including traditional wood-fired ovens, gas-fired ovens, electric ovens, and portable countertop ovens. Each type has its own advantages, so choosing the right one depends on your preferences and specific needs.

Olivia Williams

Assistant Editor At Ovenreview.co.uk

Olivia Williams is a keen writer and has spent 6+ years writing professional, research-based content. Specialising in everything home related, whether that’s smart home products or homeland security, she has an extensive knowledge on home appliances and lots of reviewing experience. Before joining Ovenreview.co.uk, she wrote content for her own website.