best oven for making pizza

Once I put the Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700F, Electric, MO201 through its paces, I was impressed by how quickly it created restaurant-quality pizza. Its ability to reach 700°F and bake a perfect 12-inch pie in just three minutes with even crust leoparding feels like a game-changer compared to typical indoor options. Plus, the five different pizza settings mean you can perfectly customize everything from Neapolitan to New York styles, making it versatile enough for any craving.

What really sets it apart is the full control over temperature and the fact that you can cook multiple dishes simultaneously outdoors—think char burgers while baking sides. Its weather-resistant build makes it a reliable season-round companion, and the included pizza stone ensures a crispy, evenly baked crust every time. After comparing all options, this oven not only excels in performance but also offers incredible value for its features and durability. Trust me, once you’ve tested it, you’ll see why I recommend the Ninja Artisan oven above the others for making the best pizza at home or outdoors.

Top Recommendation: Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700F, Electric, MO201

Why We Recommend It: This model’s ability to reach 700°F for quick, authentic stone-baked pizzas in just three minutes is unmatched. Its five specialized pizza settings allow precise customization, and the weather-resistant design ensures year-round outdoor use. The inclusion of a pizza stone and bake pan enhances crust quality and baking consistency. Compared to indoor-only models, it offers outdoor versatility, full temperature control, and the capacity to cook multiple dishes simultaneously, making it a superior choice for serious pizza lovers.

Best oven for making pizza: Our Top 5 Picks

• Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700F, Electric, MO201 – Best for Making Pizza
• Cuisinart Indoor Pizza Oven, Bakes 12″ Pizzas, CPZ-120 – Best for Making Pizza
• CHEFMAN Indoor Pizza Oven – Makes 12 Inch Pizzas in – Best Value
• PIEZANO 12″ Electric Pizza Oven by Granitestone – Best for Making Pizza
• Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven – Best for Making Pizza

What Features Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Pizza Oven?

When selecting the best oven for making pizza, several key features should be taken into account.

• Temperature Range: The ideal pizza oven should reach high temperatures, typically between 700°F and 900°F, to achieve that authentic, crispy crust. Ovens that can maintain these temperatures consistently will produce better results, mimicking traditional wood-fired ovens.
• Heating Method: Different heating methods, such as gas, electric, or wood-fired, will affect the flavor and texture of the pizza. Wood-fired ovens often impart a unique smoky flavor, while gas ovens provide convenience and ease of use, and electric ovens can be more versatile for indoor cooking.
• Size and Capacity: The size of the oven should accommodate the number of pizzas you plan to make at once. If you’re cooking for a large group or hosting parties, consider a larger oven that can fit multiple pizzas simultaneously, while smaller models are suitable for personal use.
• Construction Material: The materials used in the oven affect heat retention and distribution. Ovens with ceramic or stone interiors are excellent for retaining heat and ensuring even cooking, while stainless steel options are durable and easy to clean but may not retain heat as effectively.
• Portability: If you plan to move your oven or use it for outdoor cooking, consider lightweight and portable designs. Some portable pizza ovens come with built-in wheels or are compact enough to fit in a car, making them ideal for camping or tailgating.
• Ease of Use: User-friendly features like built-in thermometers, adjustable heat settings, and easy ignition systems can enhance your cooking experience. Look for ovens that are easy to operate, especially if you’re a beginner in pizza making.
• Price: The cost of a pizza oven can vary widely based on features and materials. Determine your budget beforehand, and consider investing in a quality oven that meets your needs rather than opting for the cheapest option, as it may not perform as well.
• Cleaning and Maintenance: Consider how easy it is to clean the oven after use. Some models come with removable parts or non-stick surfaces that simplify the cleaning process, while others may require more extensive maintenance.

Which Types of Ovens Are Most Suitable for Making Pizza?

The best ovens for making pizza are specifically designed to achieve high temperatures and provide the right cooking environment for a perfect crust and toppings.

• Wood-Fired Oven: These ovens reach extremely high temperatures, often exceeding 800°F, which is ideal for traditional Neapolitan-style pizza. The wood adds a unique smoky flavor to the pizza, and the quick cooking time ensures a crispy crust while keeping the toppings fresh.
• Gas Pizza Oven: Gas ovens offer the convenience of quick heating and adjustable temperatures, making them suitable for a variety of pizza styles. They typically provide a consistent heat source and can reach temperatures around 700°F, allowing for efficient cooking without the need to manage wood or charcoal.
• Electric Pizza Oven: Electric ovens are user-friendly and can fit easily into home kitchens, making them accessible for everyday pizza-making. While they may not reach the extreme temperatures of wood or gas ovens, many models are designed with pizza stones and heating elements that help create a crispy crust and evenly cooked toppings.
• Convection Oven: Convection ovens use a fan to circulate hot air, which helps to cook the pizza evenly and can reduce cooking time. While they usually don’t reach the high temperatures of specialized pizza ovens, they are versatile and can be used for various cooking tasks beyond pizza.
• Portable Pizza Oven: These compact ovens are designed for outdoor use and can be fueled by wood, charcoal, or gas. They heat up quickly and can reach high temperatures, making them perfect for creating restaurant-quality pizzas in a backyard setting.

What Are the Advantages of Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens?

Quick Cooking Time: Due to the intense heat, pizzas can cook in as little as 90 seconds, allowing for quick service and the ability to make multiple pizzas in a short period.

Versatility: Wood-fired ovens are not only suitable for pizza but can also be used to cook a variety of dishes such as bread, roasted meats, and vegetables, making them a versatile addition to outdoor cooking setups.

Traditional Cooking Experience: Using a wood-fired oven provides a traditional cooking experience that many find enjoyable, as it connects to the ancient methods of pizza making and outdoor cooking.

Energy Efficiency: Once heated, wood-fired ovens retain heat exceptionally well, allowing for efficient cooking without needing to constantly add fuel, which can be more energy-efficient compared to electric ovens.

How Do Gas Pizza Ovens Enhance the Pizza-Baking Experience?

Gas pizza ovens enhance the pizza-baking experience through several key features:

• Consistent Temperature Control: Gas pizza ovens provide precise temperature regulation, allowing bakers to maintain the ideal heat required for cooking pizza evenly. This consistent heat helps achieve the perfect crust and toppings without the risk of burning.
• Faster Preheating: Unlike traditional wood-fired ovens, gas pizza ovens heat up quickly, reducing wait times before baking. This efficiency is beneficial for restaurants and home cooks alike, allowing for immediate baking when the craving strikes.
• Moisture Retention: Gas ovens help in maintaining moisture within the cooking chamber, which is vital for creating a crispy crust while keeping the toppings juicy. This balance of moisture prevents the pizza from drying out, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
• Ease of Use: Operating a gas pizza oven is straightforward, as it typically requires just turning a dial or pressing a button to ignite and adjust the heat. This user-friendly design makes it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers, simplifying the pizza-making process.
• Versatility: Gas pizza ovens are versatile and can be used for various cooking methods beyond pizza, including roasting vegetables and baking bread. This multi-functionality makes them an excellent investment for those who enjoy diverse culinary experiences.

What Makes Electric Pizza Ovens a Convenient Choice?

Electric pizza ovens offer various advantages that make them a convenient choice for home cooks and pizza enthusiasts.

• Quick Preheating: Electric pizza ovens typically heat up faster than traditional ovens, allowing users to start cooking their pizzas in a short amount of time.
• Consistent Temperature Control: These ovens provide precise temperature settings, which is crucial for achieving the perfect pizza crust and toppings without the risk of burning.
• Compact Size: Many electric pizza ovens are designed to be compact and portable, making them suitable for kitchens with limited space or for outdoor use.
• Energy Efficiency: Electric pizza ovens often consume less energy compared to conventional gas ovens, reducing electricity bills while providing excellent cooking results.
• Ease of Use: They come with user-friendly controls and settings, making it easy for anyone to operate, regardless of their cooking skill level.

Quick preheating is essential for pizza making, as it allows the oven to reach optimal cooking temperatures quickly, giving users the ability to make pizzas on demand without long wait times.

Consistent temperature control is another significant advantage, as electric pizza ovens maintain stable heat levels, ensuring that the pizza cooks evenly and achieves that desired crispy crust. This is particularly important for different types of pizzas that require specific baking conditions.

The compact size of electric pizza ovens makes them ideal for various settings, whether in a small kitchen, on a countertop, or even at outdoor events, where portability and ease of setup are beneficial. This versatility allows pizza lovers to enjoy their favorite dish in different environments.

Energy efficiency is a key factor that many users appreciate, as electric pizza ovens are designed to use less energy, which not only helps in saving on utility costs but also minimizes environmental impact.

Finally, the ease of use contributes to their popularity among both novice cooks and experienced chefs. With straightforward controls and often built-in timers, users can focus on preparing their pizzas rather than fumbling with complicated settings.

What Oven Size is Best for Baking Different Pizza Sizes?

The best oven for making pizza varies based on the size of the pizza you intend to bake.

• Countertop Pizza Oven: Ideal for small to medium-sized pizzas, these ovens are compact and heat up quickly, providing a high-temperature environment similar to traditional pizza ovens.
• Conventional Oven: Suitable for larger pizzas, these ovens typically have a capacity that can accommodate pizzas up to 16 inches, allowing for versatile baking options including multiple pizzas at once.
• Commercial Pizza Oven: Best for making multiple pizzas simultaneously, these ovens are designed to handle professional-grade cooking, often having a larger footprint and superior heating capabilities.
• Wood-Fired Oven: Perfect for authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, these ovens reach extremely high temperatures and offer a unique smoky flavor, making them ideal for those who prioritize traditional cooking methods.
• Brick Oven: Best for serious pizza enthusiasts, brick ovens retain heat exceptionally well and can bake pizzas evenly, typically accommodating larger sizes, which is perfect for gatherings.

Countertop pizza ovens are great for those with limited kitchen space but still want to achieve delicious, crispy pizza. They are generally user-friendly, preheating quickly and often featuring stone baking surfaces to mimic the effects of a traditional oven.

Conventional ovens are versatile and widely used, allowing you to bake a variety of foods beyond pizza. They usually come with multiple racks, enabling you to cook several pizzas at once, making them a great option for family gatherings or parties.

Commercial pizza ovens are a staple in pizzerias and are engineered for high volume cooking. They can reach higher temperatures than home ovens, which is essential for achieving that perfect crust and melty cheese in a short time.

Wood-fired ovens offer a distinct cooking experience, using wood as fuel to achieve high temperatures and imparting a unique flavor to the pizza. They require more maintenance and careful monitoring but appeal greatly to purists who enjoy the art of pizza making.

Brick ovens are similar to wood-fired but often have an internal brick structure that enhances heat retention and distribution. This makes them excellent for baking larger pizzas evenly and is a favorite among chefs and pizza aficionados for their traditional appeal.

What Temperature Should You Aim for When Cooking Pizza?

When cooking pizza, the ideal temperature can vary based on the type of pizza and cooking method, but generally, higher temperatures yield the best results.

• Traditional Wood-Fired Ovens: These ovens can reach temperatures of 800°F to 900°F, which allows for a quick bake time of just 90 seconds to 2 minutes. The high heat creates a crispy crust while perfectly melting the cheese and cooking toppings.
• Conventional Ovens: Most home ovens can be set to a maximum of around 500°F to 550°F. To achieve the best results, preheating the oven for at least 30 minutes is recommended to ensure an even cooking temperature throughout the pizza.
• Pizza Stones or Steel: Using a pizza stone or steel in a conventional oven can help mimic the effects of a wood-fired oven. These materials retain heat well, allowing for better crust development by providing a high-temperature surface for the pizza to bake on.
• Outdoor Pizza Ovens: These specialized ovens often reach temperatures similar to wood-fired ovens, around 700°F to 900°F. They offer the advantage of portability and can cook various types of pizza quickly, maintaining great flavor and texture.
• Grilling Pizza: Cooking pizza on a grill can also produce excellent results, especially when the grill is preheated to around 500°F. The direct heat from the grill can give the crust a unique flavor and texture that resembles that of a wood-fired pizza.

Which Are the Most Recommended Pizza Oven Brands for Home Use?

The most recommended pizza oven brands for home use include:

• Ooni: Ooni is known for its high-quality portable pizza ovens that can reach temperatures of up to 932°F, allowing for authentic Neapolitan-style pizza. Their models are lightweight and easy to set up, making them ideal for both outdoor gatherings and home use.
• Roccbox: Roccbox offers a versatile outdoor pizza oven that is built with a stone baking floor and can cook pizzas in as little as 60 seconds. It features a dual-fuel option, allowing users to switch between gas and wood, providing flexibility in cooking style.
• Camp Chef: Camp Chef pizza ovens are designed with a large cooking surface and adjustable heat control, making them suitable for various pizza styles. They are often equipped with a built-in temperature gauge, ensuring that the oven maintains the perfect cooking temperature for optimal results.
• Breville: Breville’s pizza ovens are known for their innovative features, such as a built-in heating element that mimics a traditional pizza oven. Their countertop models offer precise temperature control and even heat distribution, making them a great choice for indoor cooking.
• PizzaQue: PizzaQue specializes in compact outdoor pizza ovens that are easy to transport and set up. Their ovens can reach temperatures of around 700°F and are designed to cook pizzas quickly, providing a delicious crust in just minutes.
• Traeger: Traeger is renowned for its pellet grills but also offers pizza ovens that utilize wood pellets for a smoky flavor. These ovens combine grilling and pizza cooking, allowing for versatile outdoor cooking experiences.

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