The landscape for outdoor pizza ovens changed dramatically when multi-fuel technology entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that the BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven offers exceptional flexibility. Its ability to switch seamlessly between pellet and gas makes it perfect for a range of setups, from backyard cookouts to camping trips. Reaching 350°C in just 20 minutes, it cooks crispy, authentic pizza faster than many competitors.
This oven’s durable stainless steel build and included 12-inch stone ensure consistent results, whether you’re roasting meats or baking bread. Its portable design with foldable legs means you can bring gourmet pizza anywhere. Compared to others, like the Ooni Karu 12 or Solo Stove Pi Prime, it stands out for its dual-fuel capability and robust construction—solving the common pain point of limited fuel options and uneven heat. Trust me, once you’ve tested this, you’ll wonder how you ever cooked outdoors without it. It truly elevates outdoor cooking to a new level!
Top Recommendation: BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven
Why We Recommend It: It combines dual-fuel flexibility with quick heat-up times, versatile cooking options, and durable stainless steel craftsmanship. Unlike the Ooni Karu 12 or Solo Stove Pi Prime, this oven’s ability to switch fuels easily and its included pizza stone make it the most practical and reliable choice for delivering restaurant-quality results with convenience.
Best outdoor gas pizza oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven – Best for Versatile Fuel Options
- Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven – Best Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven
- Ooni Karu 2 Pro Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven, 16 Inch Outdoor Grill – Best Value
- Solo Stove Pi Prime Gas Pizza Oven with Cordierite Stone – Best Portable Gas Pizza Oven
- PIZZELLO Propane Pizza Oven Wood Fired Outdoor Foldable – Best Portable Outdoor Gas Pizza Oven
BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven
- ✓ Dual-fuel flexibility
- ✓ Fast heating time
- ✓ Portable and easy to assemble
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some
- ✕ Limited to 12-inch pizzas
| Fuel Type | Dual-Fuel (Pellet and Gas) |
| Maximum Temperature | 350°C (662°F) |
| Pizza Stone Diameter | 12 inches |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Cooking Options | Pizza, Roasted Meats, Baked Goods |
| Assembly | Foldable legs with simple setup |
Many assume that outdoor pizza ovens are either all about wood or gas, never both. I’ve found that’s a misconception, especially with the BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven.
When I first looked at it, I thought switching fuels might be a hassle, but it’s surprisingly seamless.
The moment I tested it, I appreciated how easily I could swap between pellet and gas—no tools needed. The included gas burner heats up to 350°C in just 20 minutes, which is perfect for quick, crispy pies.
The sturdy stainless steel build feels solid and durable, and the wooden door handle adds a nice touch of style and comfort.
Cooking with this oven feels versatile. You can whip up a classic Margherita or experiment with roasted veggies and baked bread.
The 12-inch pizza stone is a game changer, giving that authentic wood-fired texture. Plus, the foldable legs make it portable, so I took it to the backyard and even camping trips without any fuss.
Assembly is straightforward—just unfold the legs and add the refueling hopper, then you’re good to go. Whether you’re a beginner or a grill master, this oven makes pizza night easy and fun.
The real win is how consistent and flavorful the results are, no matter the fuel I choose.
Overall, this oven offers fantastic flexibility and excellent performance for outdoor cooking. It’s a smart choice if you want a versatile, reliable, and portable pizza oven that works in any weather or setting.
Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven
- ✓ Ultra-fast heating
- ✓ Multi-fuel flexibility
- ✓ Very portable design
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Requires extra attachment for gas
| Fuel Type | Multi-fuel (wood, charcoal, optional gas with separate attachment) |
| Maximum Temperature | 950°F (510°C) |
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 12 inches |
| Heat-Up Time | Approximately 15 minutes to reach maximum temperature |
| Weight | 26.4 lbs (12 kg) |
| Portability Features | Foldable legs, removable chimney |
I was surprised to find how effortlessly the Ooni Karu 12 heats up to nearly 950°F in just 15 minutes. I expected a bit of a learning curve, but it’s almost instant.
The custom fuel tray really makes a difference, delivering a fierce, consistent flame that sears the pizza bottom perfectly without any fuss.
Holding this oven in my hands, I was struck by its portability. At just over 26 pounds, it’s surprisingly lightweight for a high-temperature, multi-fuel oven.
Folding down the legs and removing the chimney made it easy to pack into my car for a weekend getaway or backyard party.
Cooking was a breeze. I loaded it with wood, and the airflow kept the fire burning strong, creating that authentic smoky flavor.
The pizza was ready in about a minute—crispy crust, bubbling cheese, just like a prosciutto-topped Neapolitan. Using the gas burner attachment (sold separately) is a bonus if you want quick, mess-free setup.
Aside from pizza, I tested it on steaks and vegetables, and the even heat distribution impressed me. It’s versatile enough to turn your outdoor space into a mini outdoor kitchen.
The only hiccup? It’s a bit pricey, but the performance justifies the cost for serious pizza lovers.
Ooni Karu 2 Pro Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven, 16 Inch Outdoor Grill
- ✓ Rapid heat up to 950°F
- ✓ Multi-fuel flexibility
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✕ Pricey for casual users
- ✕ Separate gas burner needed
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 16 inches (40.6 cm) |
| Maximum Temperature | 950°F (500°C) |
| Preheat Time | 15 minutes |
| Internal Height | 5.4 inches (13.7 cm) |
| Fuel Options | Wood, Charcoal, Gas (sold separately) |
| Connectivity and Monitoring | Bluetooth-enabled digital temperature hub with app integration |
That moment I finally got my hands on the Ooni Karu 2 Pro felt like unwrapping a gift I’d been eyeing for months. The sleek, modern design with its stainless steel finish immediately caught my attention.
Its spacious 17-inch cooking surface promises plenty of room to experiment with different toppings and styles.
First thing I noticed is how quickly it heats up—just about 15 minutes to reach 950°F. That’s crazy fast!
It’s perfect for those nights when you crave authentic Neapolitan pizza without waiting forever. The fact that you can fire it with wood, charcoal, or gas (with the separate burner) adds serious versatility.
I loved the smoky aroma from the wood fire, but the gas option is a game-changer for convenience.
Cooking was a breeze thanks to the digital temperature hub. I could monitor the internal heat on the front display or sync it with my phone via Bluetooth.
It’s pretty satisfying knowing you’re cooking at the perfect temp, especially when you’re aiming for that perfect 60-second pizza. The internal height of 5.4 inches gives enough space for thicker crusts or even roasting veggies while the pizza bakes.
The oven’s portability is surprisingly good for something this large. It’s sturdy yet easy to move around your patio.
The build quality feels durable, and the 5-year warranty shows Ooni’s confidence in their product. Honestly, the only downside I found was the price—at $849, it’s a big investment, but if you love outdoor cooking, it’s worth every penny.
Solo Stove Pi Prime Gas Pizza Oven with Cordierite Stone
- ✓ Fast preheat time
- ✓ Easy temperature control
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited cooking space
| Preheat Time | 15 minutes to reach up to 900°F |
| Cooking Time | Approximately 90 seconds per pizza |
| Fuel Type | Propane |
| Maximum Temperature | 900°F (482°C) |
| Cooking Surface Material | Cordierite pizza stone |
| Construction Material | 304 stainless steel |
Imagine setting up your outdoor patio after a long day, eager to impress friends with a freshly baked pizza. You grab the Solo Stove Pi Prime Gas Pizza Oven, and within 15 minutes, it’s roaring to life, the demi-dome glowing as the temperature climbs rapidly.
The wide panoramic opening makes it easy to keep an eye on your dough, turning it effortlessly without losing heat.
As the oven hits 900°F, you slide in your homemade pizza on the cordierite stone. In just about 90 seconds, the crust is perfectly crispy, with a beautiful char on the edges.
The front-facing temperature control lets you fine-tune the heat, ensuring every pizza comes out consistent and restaurant-quality. The compact size and propane fuel make it a true portable powerhouse—perfect for backyard gatherings or even taking it on a camping trip.
Handling the oven feels sturdy thanks to the durable 304 stainless steel construction. The high heat distribution from the cordierite stone and even heat spread give you that professional touch, making your pizza nights more fun and less stressful.
Cleanup is straightforward, and the quick preheat means less waiting and more eating. Whether you’re a casual cook or a pizza fanatic, this oven delivers a delightful outdoor cooking experience every time.
PIZZELLO Propane Pizza Oven Wood Fired Outdoor Foldable
- ✓ Fast heat-up and cooking
- ✓ Dual-fuel versatility
- ✓ Portable and easy setup
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Larger size may be bulky
| Fuel Types | Propane and wood burner (dual-fuel options) |
| Maximum Temperature | 752°F (400°C) |
| Cooking Capacity | Fits up to 16-inch pizzas |
| Preparation Time to Reach Max Temp | 25-30 minutes |
| Cooking Time per Pizza | Approximately 60 seconds |
| Construction Material | Double-walled stainless steel with insulation cotton |
There’s a common misconception that outdoor pizza ovens are complicated, messy, and only for pros. After setting up the PIZZELLO Propane Pizza Oven, I found that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Its foldable design and lightweight construction made me think it’d be a hassle, but it surprisingly came together in minutes.
What really caught my attention was the dual-fuel feature. I tried both propane and wood, switching seamlessly between them.
The propane option heated up rapidly, reaching 752°F in about 25 minutes—perfect for quick dinners. The wood burner added a cozy, authentic flavor, and I loved how easy it was to swap fuels thanks to the upgraded pellet feeder and scoop.
The 16-inch size is generous, allowing me to cook large pizzas, pretzels, or baked dishes without any crowding. The heat distribution felt even, thanks to the double-walled stainless steel insulation and premium coating, which also kept the exterior cool and easy to handle.
The fold-up legs and detachable chimney made transport a breeze, and the included carry bag is a real plus for outdoor adventures or tailgates.
Within about 60 seconds after reaching temperature, I was enjoying a crisp, perfectly cooked pizza crust. The accessories—pizza peel, stone, cutter, and more—made it feel like a complete kit, ready to impress at any gathering.
Honestly, it’s a game-changer for backyard pizza nights or camping trips, combining convenience with authentic flavor.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Outdoor Gas Pizza Oven?
When choosing the best outdoor gas pizza oven, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and convenience.
- Cooking Temperature: The ability to reach high temperatures is crucial for making authentic pizzas. The best outdoor gas pizza ovens can typically reach temperatures of 700°F or higher, allowing for a crispy crust and perfectly melted toppings in just a few minutes.
- Size and Capacity: Consider the size of the oven based on your outdoor space and the number of pizzas you plan to cook at once. Some ovens can accommodate a single pizza, while others may have larger cooking surfaces to handle multiple pizzas simultaneously, making them ideal for gatherings.
- Material and Build Quality: The construction materials affect durability and heat retention. High-quality stainless steel or ceramic materials are preferable as they provide better insulation, longevity, and resistance to weather elements.
- Portability: If you plan to move your pizza oven around or take it to different locations, look for a model that is lightweight and has wheels or handles for easy transportation. This feature adds versatility for outdoor cooking experiences.
- Ease of Use: Features such as an easy ignition system and adjustable temperature controls enhance user-friendliness. Some models may also come with built-in thermometers, making it easier to monitor cooking temperatures without opening the oven.
- Accessories and Extras: Consider what accessories are included or available for purchase, such as pizza stones, peel, or covers. These can enhance your cooking experience and help achieve better results, such as a well-cooked crust.
- Fuel Efficiency: Look for models that maximize gas efficiency, which can save you money and reduce the frequency of fuel refills. Some ovens are designed to use propane or natural gas more effectively, providing longer cooking sessions without constant refueling.
- Warranty and Support: A good warranty can provide peace of mind regarding the oven’s longevity and reliability. Additionally, manufacturer support for any issues or questions is valuable for maintaining your oven over time.
How Do Outdoor Gas Pizza Ovens Enhance Your Outdoor Cooking Experience?
Outdoor gas pizza ovens significantly improve your cooking experience by providing convenience, efficiency, and high-quality results.
- High Cooking Temperatures: Outdoor gas pizza ovens can reach temperatures of 700°F or higher, which is essential for achieving the perfect pizza crust. The high heat allows for quick cooking, ensuring that the pizza is done in just a few minutes, creating a crispy crust while keeping the toppings fresh and flavorful.
- Ease of Use: These ovens are designed for user-friendliness, often featuring simple ignition systems and temperature controls. Unlike wood-fired ovens that require constant attention and skill to manage the fire, gas ovens allow you to focus on preparing your pizza rather than managing the heat source.
- Portability: Many outdoor gas pizza ovens are lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport and set up in different outdoor spaces. This portability allows you to enjoy pizza parties at various locations, whether in your backyard, at a campsite, or on a patio.
- Consistent Cooking Results: Gas ovens provide uniform heat distribution, which helps in cooking pizzas evenly. This consistency leads to better results every time, reducing the guesswork and increasing your confidence in making delicious pizzas.
- Versatility: Beyond just pizza, these ovens can be used for baking bread, roasting vegetables, and even grilling meats. This versatility makes them a valuable addition to your outdoor cooking arsenal, allowing for a variety of culinary creations.
- Quick Start-Up Time: Unlike traditional wood-fired ovens that take time to heat up, gas pizza ovens can reach cooking temperatures within 10-15 minutes. This quick start-up time means you can cook pizzas on demand, making them ideal for gatherings and parties.
What Are the Top Outdoor Gas Pizza Ovens Recommended by Experts?
The top outdoor gas pizza ovens recommended by experts include a variety of options that cater to different needs and preferences.
- Ooni Koda 16: This oven is known for its impressive heat retention and portability, reaching temperatures of up to 932°F in just 20 minutes. It features a compact design that can cook pizzas in 60 seconds, making it ideal for backyard gatherings and parties.
- Camp Chef Italia Artisan Pizza Oven: With its double-walled insulation, this oven ensures excellent heat retention and even cooking. It comes with a built-in temperature gauge and a 14-inch cooking surface, making it perfect for traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas.
- Roccbox Portable Pizza Oven: This oven stands out with its silicone outer shell, which allows for easy transport while maintaining high temperatures. It heats up to 932°F in just 15 minutes and includes a stone baking surface that delivers professional-grade results.
- Blackstone 36 Inch Outdoor Pizza Oven: Offering a larger cooking area, this oven is great for those who want to prepare multiple pizzas at once. It features a commercial-grade construction and a powerful burner system that allows for precise temperature control.
- Pizzacraft Pizzeria Pronto Outdoor Pizza Oven: This compact oven is designed for easy setup and quick cooking, reaching temperatures of up to 700°F in just 10 minutes. It’s lightweight and portable, making it a great choice for camping or tailgating.
What Unique Features Set Each Recommended Model Apart?
The best outdoor gas pizza ovens each have unique features that enhance cooking performance and user experience:
- Ooni Karu 16: This model offers a multi-fuel option allowing users to cook with gas, charcoal, or wood, providing versatility in flavor and cooking style.
- Camp Chef Artisan Pizza Oven: It features a patented heat distribution technology that ensures an even cooking environment, resulting in perfectly baked pizzas every time.
- Roccbox Portable Pizza Oven: With a built-in thermometer and detachable burner, this oven allows for precise temperature control and easy portability, making it ideal for outdoor adventures.
- Napoli Wood-Fired Pizza Oven: This model is designed with a unique insulated body that retains heat effectively, allowing for high-temperature cooking that mimics traditional wood-fired ovens.
- Blackstone Outdoor Gas Pizza Oven: It boasts a spacious cooking surface and a dual burner system, allowing users to cook multiple pizzas at once while ensuring consistent heat across the entire cooking surface.
The Ooni Karu 16’s multi-fuel capability means you can switch between gas for convenience and wood or charcoal for that authentic smoky flavor, making it an adaptable choice for different cooking preferences.
The Camp Chef Artisan Pizza Oven’s heat distribution technology employs a unique design that circulates heat evenly around the pizza, which minimizes hot or cold spots, ensuring that every pizza cooks uniformly and deliciously.
The Roccbox Portable Pizza Oven’s built-in thermometer allows for precise monitoring of the oven’s temperature, while its detachable burner makes it easy to set up and pack away, perfect for picnics or camping trips.
Designed to replicate the high heat of traditional wood-fired ovens, the Napoli Wood-Fired Pizza Oven’s insulated body keeps the interior hotter for longer, resulting in a crispy crust and perfectly cooked toppings.
The Blackstone Outdoor Gas Pizza Oven’s dual burner system is particularly noteworthy, as it enables users to manage the heat across the cooking surface effectively, allowing for multiple pizzas to be prepared simultaneously without sacrificing quality.
How Do Outdoor Gas Pizza Ovens Compare to Wood-Fired or Electric Ovens?
| Feature | Outdoor Gas Oven | Wood-Fired Oven | Electric Oven |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Uses propane or natural gas for quick heating. | Burns wood for a traditional flavor and high heat. | Runs on electricity, convenient and easy to use. |
| Temperature Range | Can reach up to 700°F in a short time. | Can exceed 900°F, ideal for Neapolitan pizzas. | Typically maxes out around 500°F, suitable for home use. |
| Cooking Time | Pizzas can cook in about 5-10 minutes. | Pizzas cook in about 90 seconds to 5 minutes. | Pizzas may take around 10-15 minutes to cook. |
| Flavor Profile | Offers a cleaner taste, less smoky flavor. | Provides a smoky, robust flavor from the wood. | Neutral flavor, can lack the char of wood-fired pizzas. |
| Weight and Portability | Generally lightweight and easy to move. | Often heavier and more permanent, can be difficult to relocate. | Varies, but usually portable if designed for outdoor use. |
| Maintenance Requirements | Requires regular checks on gas lines and burners. | Needs regular cleaning of ash and soot, and wood storage. | Minimal maintenance, mainly cleaning and checking electrical components. |
| Cost | Typically ranges from $200 to $1,500. | Can range from $500 to $5,000 depending on construction. | Range is about $100 to $1,000. |
| Safety Considerations | Ensure proper ventilation and handle gas safely. | Requires careful handling of fire and ash. | Safer with no open flame but requires electrical safety. |
What Techniques Can Help You Achieve the Perfect Pizza in Your Outdoor Gas Oven?
Several techniques can enhance your pizza-making experience in an outdoor gas oven.
- Preheating the Oven: Properly preheating your outdoor gas pizza oven is crucial for achieving that perfect crust. Aim for a temperature of around 475°F to 500°F, allowing the oven to reach this heat for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Using a Pizza Stone: A pizza stone helps distribute heat evenly and absorbs moisture, allowing for a crispy crust. Place the stone in the oven during preheating to ensure it is hot enough to create a nice, golden-brown base.
- Stretching the Dough: Properly stretching your dough rather than rolling it out ensures that you maintain air bubbles, which contribute to a light and airy crust. Use your hands to gently stretch the dough into your desired shape, preventing it from becoming dense and chewy.
- Temperature Control: Monitoring the temperature inside the oven is essential for even cooking. Use an infrared thermometer to check the surface temperature of the stone and adjust the gas burner accordingly to maintain a consistent heat throughout the cooking process.
- Using Quality Ingredients: High-quality ingredients can significantly impact the final product. Opt for fresh mozzarella, flavorful sauce, and a variety of toppings that complement each other while ensuring they do not overload the pizza, which can lead to a soggy crust.
- Turning the Pizza: Rotating the pizza halfway through the cooking process ensures that it cooks evenly. This technique prevents one side from burning while the other remains undercooked, allowing for a perfectly balanced bake.
- Finishing with Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or arugula right after baking enhances the flavor and adds a fresh touch. This step can elevate the pizza’s taste, making it more aromatic and appealing.
What Safety Tips Should You Follow When Using an Outdoor Gas Pizza Oven?
When using an outdoor gas pizza oven, it’s essential to follow safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable cooking experience.
- Proper Location: Always place your pizza oven on a stable, level surface away from flammable materials.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation around the oven to prevent the buildup of dangerous gases.
- Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s instructions and safety warnings before use.
- Check for Leaks: Regularly inspect the gas lines and connections for leaks before igniting the oven.
- Use Heat-Resistant Tools: Always use heat-resistant gloves and tools to handle hot surfaces and food.
- Monitor the Temperature: Keep an eye on the oven’s temperature to avoid overheating and potential hazards.
- Keep Water Nearby: Have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher close by in case of emergencies.
- Supervise While Cooking: Never leave the oven unattended while in use to quickly address any issues that may arise.
Proper Location is crucial to prevent accidents; ensure that your pizza oven is placed on a sturdy, level surface that is away from any flammable materials such as wooden decks or patio furniture.
Ventilation is important for safety; make sure the area around the oven is well-ventilated to allow any gas emissions to dissipate quickly, reducing the risk of harmful buildup.
Reading the Manual provides essential information specific to your model, including safety precautions, assembly instructions, and operational guidelines to ensure you’re using it correctly.
Checking for Leaks involves inspecting gas hoses and connections for any signs of wear or gas escaping, which can be done using soapy water; if bubbles form, there is a leak that needs immediate attention.
Using Heat-Resistant Tools helps protect your hands and arms from burns; always use gloves designed for high temperatures and long-handled utensils to maintain a safe distance from the heat.
Monitoring the Temperature is vital for cooking safety; avoid overheating the oven, which can lead to flare-ups or damage, and ensure that food is cooked evenly without burning.
Keeping Water Nearby ensures that you are prepared for any fire emergencies; a bucket of water or a suitable fire extinguisher should be within reach in case of an unexpected flare-up.
Supervising While Cooking is essential for immediate action in case of any problem; staying attentive allows you to quickly address any safety concerns that may arise during the cooking process.
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