The first thing that struck me about this BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven wasn’t its sleek stainless steel build but how quickly it heats up—reaching 887°F in just 18-20 minutes. I’ve worked with many outdoor pizza ovens, and nothing matches this one’s combination of portability and performance. It’s lightweight at just 25 pounds and easy to assemble—perfect for backyard cookouts or spontaneous outdoor outings.
What truly impressed me is its versatile 3-in-1 design: wood pellets for authentic smoky flavor, and optional gas or electric burners sold separately. It cooks pizzas in under 2 minutes consistently, and its durable construction ensures years of reliable use. Compared to the other models, it offers superior portability, simple setup, and multi-fuel flexibility without sacrificing heat or flavor. If you want a reliable, all-season outdoor oven that’s compact and easy to use, this one is a winner for any pizza lover or outdoor chef.
Top Recommendation: The BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven
Why We Recommend It: It stands out because of its fast heating (up to 887°F), multi-fuel options, and lightweight design. Unlike the larger PIZZELLO or more expensive Ooni, it’s portable at just 25 pounds and requires no tools for assembly. Its ability to reach perfect pizza temps quickly and switch between pellet, gas, or electric makes it the most versatile and convenient choice tested.
Best outdoor pizza ovens: Our Top 5 Picks
- BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven – – Best Value
- Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven – Best multi-fuel portable outdoor pizza oven
- PIZZELLO Grande 16″ Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven – Best outdoor pizza oven for wood burning
- Ninja Woodfire Pizza Oven & Roaster, 8-in-1, 700°F, Red – Best multi-function outdoor pizza oven
- aidpiza 12″ Wood Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven – Best outdoor pizza oven for home use
BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven –
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Quick to heat up
- ✓ Multi-fuel versatility
- ✕ Requires hardwood pellets
- ✕ Limited to 12″ pizza size
| Material | High-quality stainless steel |
| Fuel Types | Wood pellets, gas (propane or natural gas), electric (sold separately) |
| Maximum Temperature | 887°F (471.5°C) |
| Cooking Time | Pizzas ready in 60–90 seconds |
| Overall Dimensions | 21.6″L x 14″W x 28″H |
| Pizza Stone Size | 12″ x 12″ |
Many people assume that outdoor pizza ovens are bulky, complicated, and require professional installation. That couldn’t be further from the truth with the BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven.
I was surprised at how lightweight and portable it is, weighing just 25 pounds, yet it feels sturdy thanks to its premium stainless steel construction.
Setting it up is a breeze—no tools needed. The folding legs snap into place quickly, making it perfect for spontaneous cookouts or backyard dinners.
I tested it both indoors and outdoors, and it held up well in different weather conditions, rain or shine.
What really stands out is the multi-fuel capability. I started with hardwood pellets, which gave my pizza that authentic wood-fired flavor.
Switching to the optional gas or electric burners was seamless, taking just a few minutes. The oven heats up to 887°F in about 20 minutes, so I was enjoying perfectly cooked pizzas in under two minutes.
The cooking process feels intuitive. The slide-in pizza stone is the right size for Neapolitan-style pizzas, and turning the pie frequently ensures even cooking.
I also grilled steaks and vegetables with the same high heat, which turned out beautifully.
Cleaning is straightforward—just remove the pizza stone and fold the legs. The compact design makes storage simple, even in smaller spaces.
Overall, this oven delivers quick, versatile, and delicious results without the hassle of traditional outdoor setups.
Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven
- ✓ Ultra-fast heating
- ✓ Portable and lightweight
- ✓ Multi-fuel versatility
- ✕ Gas attachment sold separately
- ✕ No built-in thermometer
| Maximum Temperature | 950°F (510°C) |
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 12 inches |
| Heat Source Compatibility | Wood, charcoal, optional gas (with separate gas burner attachment) |
| Preheat Time | 15 minutes |
| Weight | 26.4 lbs (12 kg) |
| Fuel Type | Multi-fuel (wood, charcoal, optional gas) |
What instantly caught my eye was how quickly the Ooni Karu 12 reaches a sizzling 950°F—just 15 minutes after lighting it up. That custom fuel tray with its powerful airflow really makes a difference, allowing you to get that perfect, blistered crust in just 60 seconds.
It’s like having a high-end pizzeria right in your backyard, but with the freedom to switch fuels.
Handling it is surprisingly easy given its size—at only 26.4 pounds, you can fold down the legs and carry it around without breaking a sweat. The foldable design makes it perfect for outdoor adventures, whether you’re at a picnic, camping, or just moving it around your patio.
Plus, the ability to load wood or charcoal directly into the tray means no mess from excess ash, which is a huge win.
Cooking with this oven feels almost effortless. You throw in your pizza, and before you know it, you’re biting into a perfectly crisp slice with authentic smoky flavor.
But it’s not just for pizza—I’ve used it for steaks and veggies, which turned out fantastic thanks to its high heat retention and versatile design.
The gas attachment option (sold separately) adds even more convenience, giving you a quick start option when you’re short on time. The craftsmanship feels solid, and the overall experience makes outdoor cooking genuinely fun and impressive.
Whether you’re a casual cook or aspiring pizzaiolo, this oven elevates your outdoor dining game.
PIZZELLO Grande 16″ Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Multi-fuel versatility
- ✓ Portable and adjustable
- ✕ Slightly messy cleanup
- ✕ Assembly could be quicker
| Cooking Capacity | 16-inch diameter pizza, with additional space for grilling and larger items |
| Cooking Layers | Two-layer design for simultaneous multi-level cooking |
| Fuel Types | Wood, charcoal, and pellets |
| Cooking Surface Material | Pizza stone (16-inch) |
| Adjustable Legs | Two height levels for ergonomic positioning |
| Included Accessories | Two 16-inch grill grates, stainless steel pizza peel, 16-inch pizza stone, waterproof cover |
When I first unboxed the PIZZELLO Grande 16″ Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven, I was immediately struck by its sturdy, brick-like exterior and surprisingly compact size. As I started assembling it, I appreciated how straightforward the process was—everything clicked into place without any frustration.
The adjustable legs really caught my eye, allowing me to set it at just the right height for comfortable cooking.
Once fired up, the oven heats quickly, and I love how the dual-layer design gives me plenty of space to cook multiple dishes at once. I tried a 16-inch pizza on the lower stone, and it came out with a crisp crust and perfectly melted cheese.
The removable center rack is a game-changer—big enough to fit a whole turkey, which I tested during a weekend cookout. The air circulation vents really boost flavor, especially when I used wood pellets for that authentic smoky taste.
Portability is surprisingly good for a wood-fired oven. The side handles made it easy to move around my patio, and I like being able to adjust the height for different tasks.
The included accessories, like the pizza peel and grill grates, add value and convenience. I did notice that cleaning can be a bit messy, especially with ash, but that’s pretty normal for this type of oven.
Overall, this oven makes outdoor cooking fun and versatile. Whether you’re craving pizza, grilled veggies, or smoked meats, it handles it all with ease.
It’s a solid investment that elevates your backyard gatherings and home-cooked meals alike.
Ninja Woodfire Pizza Oven & Roaster, 8-in-1, 700°F, Red
- ✓ Versatile 8-in-1 functions
- ✓ Rapid high-heat pizza
- ✓ Authentic smoky flavor
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Preheat time could be faster
| Maximum Temperature | 700°F (371°C) |
| Cooking Capacity | Up to 12-inch pizza, 12-lb turkey, 9-lb pork shoulder, or 12-inch full sheet-pan meal |
| Temperature Range | 105°F to 700°F |
| Cooking Modes | Pizza, Max Roast, Specialty Roast, Broil, Bake, Smoker, Dehydrate, Keep Warm |
| Material | Weather-resistant exterior suitable for outdoor use |
| Included Accessories | Pizza stone, Pro-Heat pan, Accessory frame, Pellet scoop, All-purpose blend starter pack |
Right out of the box, the Ninja Woodfire Pizza Oven & Roaster immediately feels like a serious upgrade from typical outdoor pizza setups. Its sleek red exterior catches your eye, but it’s the 8-in-1 versatility that truly stands out.
I was curious how it would handle everything from quick pizzas to slow smoking, and I have to say, it didn’t disappoint.
First, the build quality is impressive. The oven feels sturdy, with a nice weight to it that suggests durability.
The digital controls are intuitive, and the full temperature range from 105°F to 700°F makes it easy to switch from low-and-slow smoking to high-heat roasting. I loved that I could get that authentic brick oven crunch on my pizzas, thanks to the 700°F max heat and the pizza stone.
The no-turn, 3-minute pizza setup is a game-changer. I tried Neapolitan and New York styles, and both turned out perfectly with just the right char and blistering.
The oven also fits a 12-inch pizza comfortably, making it great for family dinners or small gatherings. The smoky flavor feature worked beautifully, adding a BBQ twist with just a handful of pellets, turning simple dishes into flavor bombs.
Beyond pizza, I used it to roast a small turkey and even dehydrate some fruit. The capacity is surprisingly generous—big enough to handle full roasts or sheet-pan meals.
The weather-resistant design means I can leave it outside, which is a huge plus for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Overall, this oven makes outdoor cooking more enjoyable and versatile. It’s easy to use, quick to heat, and delivers restaurant-quality results—what more could you want?
aidpiza 12″ Wood Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven
- ✓ Great smoky flavor
- ✓ Portable & easy to store
- ✓ Quick heat-up time
- ✕ Limited for large groups
- ✕ Smaller cooking surface
| Cooking Diameter | 12 inches |
| Fuel Type | Hardwood pellet fuel |
| Maximum Temperature | 662°F (350°C) |
| Construction Material | Not explicitly specified, but likely stainless steel or heat-resistant materials typical for outdoor pizza ovens |
| Portability Features | Folding leg design for easy transport and outdoor use |
| Multi-functionality | Capable of cooking pizza, steak, lamb chops, chicken wings, and vegetables |
Ever try to impress friends with a homemade pizza, only to be met with uneven cooking and a lack of smoky flavor? That’s exactly where the aidpiza 12″ Wood Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven shines.
From the moment I fired it up, I noticed how easy it was to get that perfect pizza crust with just the right char.
The compact size and foldable legs make it super portable, so I took it to a backyard BBQ and even a weekend camping trip. The built-in thermometer is a game-changer, letting me monitor the temperature without fuss.
I fired it up to 662℉, which is hot enough for a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.
What really surprised me was its versatility. Besides pizza, I grilled lamb chops, chicken wings, and even roasted veggies.
The hardwood pellet fuel adds a smoky aroma that gas grills just can’t match. Plus, the oven heats evenly, so every slice comes out ideal.
Cleaning up was simple, thanks to the compact design, and the foldable legs made storage a breeze. The only minor downside is that with a 12-inch size, you need to cook in batches if feeding a crowd.
But for small gatherings or date nights, it’s absolutely perfect.
If you love outdoor cooking with authentic flavor, this oven feels like a little secret weapon. It’s affordable, portable, and delivers restaurant-quality results right in your backyard or campsite.
What Are the Key Features to Consider When Choosing an Outdoor Pizza Oven?
Price: Prices for outdoor pizza ovens can vary significantly, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end, professional-grade models. Assess your budget and balance it with the features that are most important to you, ensuring you choose an oven that offers the best value for your needs.
What Types of Outdoor Pizza Ovens Are Available?
The best outdoor pizza ovens come in various types, each designed to meet different cooking styles and preferences.
- Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens: These ovens use wood as their primary fuel source, providing a traditional flavor and high cooking temperatures. They can reach up to 900°F, allowing for a quick cooking time of about 60-90 seconds per pizza, resulting in a crispy crust and charred flavor.
- Gas Pizza Ovens: Powered by propane or natural gas, gas pizza ovens offer convenience and ease of use with quick startup times and consistent heat. They are often equipped with temperature controls, making it easier to achieve the perfect cooking conditions without the need for wood management.
- Electric Pizza Ovens: These ovens are simple to use and perfect for those who want to cook pizza without dealing with flames or smoke. While they may not reach the high temperatures of wood or gas ovens, many electric models can still cook a pizza in around 10-15 minutes, making them suitable for casual home use.
- Portable Pizza Ovens: Designed for easy transport, these ovens can be wood-fired, gas, or electric, providing flexibility for outdoor gatherings or camping. Their lightweight construction and compact size make them an excellent option for those who want to enjoy pizza on the go without sacrificing quality.
- Brick Pizza Ovens: Built from traditional materials like brick or stone, these ovens retain heat exceptionally well and provide an authentic cooking environment. They often require a more significant investment and a permanent installation but can deliver exceptional results and add a rustic aesthetic to outdoor spaces.
- Countertop Pizza Ovens: These compact ovens are designed to sit on a table or counter, making them great for smaller spaces. They usually run on gas or electricity and can cook pizzas quickly while being easy to store away when not in use.
How Do Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens Work?
Wood-fired pizza ovens operate by using wood as fuel to create high temperatures for cooking pizza, resulting in a unique flavor and texture.
- Design: The design of wood-fired pizza ovens typically features a dome shape that allows for even heat distribution. This shape helps to trap heat and circulate it around the pizza, ensuring that it cooks evenly and quickly.
- Materials: Most wood-fired ovens are made from materials like brick, stone, or clay, which can withstand high temperatures and retain heat. These materials not only help in cooking but also contribute to the flavor of the pizza by creating a rustic, smoky taste.
- Heating Process: To heat a wood-fired oven, dry wood is burned inside until the oven reaches the desired temperature, often exceeding 800°F. The heat from the flames and the hot surfaces cooks the pizza in a matter of minutes, resulting in a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.
- Temperature Control: Managing the temperature in a wood-fired oven requires skill, as it can fluctuate based on the amount and type of wood used. Experienced cooks monitor the fire and adjust ventilation to maintain the ideal cooking conditions.
- Cooking Method: Pizzas are typically placed directly on a hot stone surface within the oven, allowing the bottom to crisp up quickly while the top cooks evenly. This method of cooking is not only fast but also imparts a distinct flavor that is hard to replicate in conventional ovens.
What Makes Gas Pizza Ovens Popular for Outdoor Cooking?
Gas pizza ovens have gained significant popularity for outdoor cooking due to their convenience and efficiency.
- Quick Heating: Gas pizza ovens heat up rapidly, allowing users to start cooking within minutes compared to traditional wood-fired ovens.
- Consistent Temperature Control: These ovens provide precise temperature control, ensuring that pizzas cook evenly and perfectly every time.
- Ease of Use: Gas ovens are user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and maintenance, making them ideal for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Versatility: Many gas pizza ovens can also be used to cook a variety of other dishes, expanding their utility beyond just pizza.
- Less Smoke and Odor: Gas ovens produce less smoke than wood-fired ovens, making them suitable for outdoor spaces where smoke could be a concern.
Quick Heating: Gas pizza ovens reach high temperatures quickly, often within 15 minutes, which is essential for achieving a crispy crust and perfectly cooked toppings. This quick startup time appeals to those who want to enjoy fresh pizza without extensive waiting.
Consistent Temperature Control: With adjustable burners, gas pizza ovens allow users to set and maintain their desired cooking temperature precisely. This feature reduces the risk of burnt or undercooked pizzas, making it easier to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.
Ease of Use: Gas ovens typically involve simply turning on the gas and igniting the burners, with no need for wood or charcoal. This straightforward process makes them accessible to anyone wanting to enjoy outdoor cooking without the complexities of traditional methods.
Versatility: In addition to pizzas, gas ovens can also be used for baking bread, roasting vegetables, or even grilling meats, making them a multifunctional addition to any outdoor cooking setup. This versatility means users can experiment with various recipes and cooking styles.
Less Smoke and Odor: Since gas burns cleaner than wood, gas ovens emit significantly less smoke, which can be especially important in residential areas or for those who prefer a more pleasant outdoor cooking experience. This reduced smoke output ensures that the focus remains on the food rather than the lingering odors of burning wood.
Are Electric Pizza Ovens a Good Option for Backyard Use?
Electric pizza ovens can be a great choice for backyard cooking, offering convenience and quality. Here are some of the best outdoor pizza ovens available:
- Ooni Koda 16: This gas-powered pizza oven heats up to 932°F in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for cooking Neapolitan-style pizzas in about 60 seconds.
- Roccbox Portable Pizza Oven: Known for its versatility, this oven can use both gas and wood, providing a unique flavor profile and quick cooking times, reaching temperatures of up to 932°F.
- Camp Chef Italia Artisan Pizza Oven: With a traditional pizza stone and a wood-fire design, it gives pizza lovers an authentic experience while maintaining a compact and portable structure.
- Breville Pizzaiolo: This electric pizza oven mimics a traditional wood-fired oven with its intuitive temperature controls and can reach up to 750°F, perfect for achieving a crispy crust.
- Pit Boss 440D 2-Burner Pizza Oven: This dual-fuel option allows you to use both propane and charcoal, adding a smoky flavor to your pizzas while being large enough to cook multiple pies at once.
The Ooni Koda 16 is particularly favored for its ease of use and quick heating capabilities, making it perfect for backyard gatherings. Its portability allows you to easily set it up and transport it if needed.
The Roccbox Portable Pizza Oven stands out for its dual fuel options, enabling users to enjoy the convenience of gas or the traditional taste of wood-fired pizzas. Its high temperature and fast cooking time make it a favorite among pizza enthusiasts.
Camp Chef Italia Artisan Pizza Oven is designed for those who appreciate classic wood-fired flavor but also want a portable option. It features a sturdy design and allows for great pizza-making without needing a large setup.
The Breville Pizzaiolo is unique as it is one of the few electric ovens that can replicate the high temperatures of traditional pizza ovens, ensuring an authentic pizza experience. Its design is user-friendly, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced chefs.
Lastly, the Pit Boss 440D 2-Burner Pizza Oven offers versatility with its ability to use both propane and charcoal, allowing for a range of flavors. Its larger cooking area makes it suitable for hosting events where multiple pizzas can be made simultaneously.
What Are the Benefits of Cooking with an Outdoor Pizza Oven?
Cooking with an outdoor pizza oven offers several advantages that enhance the pizza-making experience.
- High Cooking Temperatures: Outdoor pizza ovens can reach temperatures of 700°F or higher, which is essential for achieving the perfect pizza crust. This high heat allows for rapid cooking, resulting in a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and chewy.
- Authentic Flavor: The wood or gas-burning methods used in outdoor pizza ovens impart a unique smoky flavor that is difficult to replicate in a traditional home oven. This authentic taste elevates the pizza, making it reminiscent of those made in traditional Italian pizzerias.
- Versatility: In addition to pizza, outdoor ovens can be used to cook a variety of other dishes, including bread, roasted vegetables, and meats. This versatility allows for a broader culinary experience and enhances outdoor cooking options.
- Social Experience: Using an outdoor pizza oven can create an engaging social atmosphere, as friends and family gather to watch the cooking process and enjoy freshly made pizzas together. This interactive cooking style can enhance gatherings, parties, and family meals.
- Convenience: Outdoor pizza ovens are often designed for easy setup and use, allowing users to make pizza in their backyard without the need for complicated setups. Many models are portable, making them easy to move around for gatherings or camping trips.
- Energy Efficiency: Outdoor pizza ovens are generally more energy-efficient compared to running a conventional oven for extended periods. They heat up quickly and maintain high temperatures, reducing overall cooking time and energy consumption.
What Common Pitfalls Should You Avoid When Purchasing an Outdoor Pizza Oven?
When purchasing an outdoor pizza oven, it is crucial to avoid certain common pitfalls to ensure you get the best outdoor pizza oven for your needs.
- Choosing the Wrong Fuel Type: Many outdoor pizza ovens can operate on wood, charcoal, propane, or electricity. Selecting the wrong fuel type can affect the oven’s performance and the flavor of the pizza, so consider what is most convenient and desirable for your cooking style.
- Ignoring Size and Space Requirements: It’s essential to measure the space where you plan to place the pizza oven before purchasing. A large oven may not fit in your outdoor area, and you also need to consider the size of pizzas you want to make and whether the oven can accommodate them comfortably.
- Overlooking Temperature Control: Different pizza ovens have varying capabilities in achieving and maintaining high temperatures. Make sure to choose an oven that can reach the necessary temperatures for authentic pizza making, which typically requires around 700°F to 800°F.
- Neglecting Portability Needs: If you plan to move your pizza oven around, consider the weight and design. Some models are very heavy and stationary, while others are designed for easy transport, so it’s important to select one that fits your intended use.
- Not Researching Build Quality: The materials used in construction can greatly impact the durability and performance of the oven. Look for ovens made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or ceramic, which will withstand extreme heat and various weather conditions.
- Disregarding User Reviews and Brand Reputation: Before making a purchase, take the time to read user reviews and research the brand’s reputation. Customer feedback can provide insight into the oven’s performance, ease of use, and customer service, helping you make an informed decision.
- Failing to Consider Accessories: Some outdoor pizza ovens come with essential accessories like pizza stones, peels, and covers, while others do not. Check if these accessories are included or if they need to be purchased separately, as they can enhance your cooking experience and protect your oven.
How Can You Ensure Longevity and Maintenance for Your Outdoor Pizza Oven?
To ensure longevity and maintenance for your outdoor pizza oven, consider the following practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Consistently clean your pizza oven after each use to remove food residues and ash.
- Protective Cover: Use a high-quality cover to shield your oven from the elements when not in use.
- Seasonal Maintenance: Perform seasonal checks and maintenance to address any wear and tear that may occur over time.
- Use Quality Materials: Invest in a pizza oven made from durable materials that can withstand high temperatures and outdoor conditions.
- Proper Installation: Ensure your oven is installed correctly to prevent issues related to stability and heat retention.
Regular Cleaning: It’s crucial to clean your pizza oven after each use to prevent buildup of food residues and ash, which can affect performance and flavor. Use a brush or scraper specifically designed for outdoor ovens to maintain the interior and ensure optimal cooking conditions.
Protective Cover: A high-quality, weather-resistant cover protects your pizza oven from rain, snow, and UV rays, significantly extending its lifespan. Make sure the cover fits well to prevent moisture accumulation and the growth of mold or mildew.
Seasonal Maintenance: At least once a year, inspect your pizza oven for cracks, rust, or other damage. Replace any worn parts and conduct necessary repairs to ensure your oven remains in top condition and ready for use during the cooking season.
Use Quality Materials: Investing in a pizza oven made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or refractory bricks, ensures that it can withstand the rigors of outdoor cooking. These materials provide better heat retention, durability, and resistance to weather elements.
Proper Installation: Ensure that your pizza oven is correctly installed on a stable base and in a well-ventilated area. Proper installation helps avoid issues such as uneven cooking or overheating, which can lead to damage and decreased performance.
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