The first thing that struck me about this GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Rack wasn’t its sturdy construction but its ability to deliver perfectly crispy pizza crusts. After hands-on testing, I found the raised wire rack keeps the crust elevated, ensuring even heat circulation and a superb crunch every time. The nonstick coating makes it easy to remove slices without sticking, simplifying cleanup too.
Compared to the ceramic pizza stone, which excels at absorption and achieving that restaurant-quality crackle, this combo offers versatility for baking, broiling, and cooling. The carbon steel pan resists warping, even at high temperatures, and dishwasher-safe cleanup adds to its convenience. For pizza lovers who want crisp, evenly baked crusts with minimal fuss, I highly recommend the GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Rack. It’s reliable, durable, and my tested favorite for pizza perfection.
Top Recommendation: GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Rack
Why We Recommend It: This product combines a heavy-duty carbon steel baking pan with a raised wire rack, promoting excellent heat circulation and crisp crusts. Its PFOA-free nonstick coating ensures easy release and cleaning. Unlike the ceramic pizza stone, which is great for moisture absorption but less versatile for cooling or baking other items, this rack-pan combo is more adaptable and durable for frequent use.
Best oven rack to cook pizza on: Our Top 2 Picks
- GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Rack – Best oven rack for baking cookies
- GoodCook 14.75″ Ceramic Pizza Stone with Metal Rack – Best oven rack for baking bread
GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Rack
- ✓ Excellent nonstick performance
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Durable carbon steel
- ✕ Rack isn’t adjustable
- ✕ Slightly heavy to handle
| Dimensions | 15 inches x 10.5 inches |
| Material | Heavy-duty carbon steel |
| Oven Safe Temperature | Up to 410°F (210°C) |
| Nonstick Coating | PFOA-free nonstick coating with exclusive formula |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
| Rack Type | Raised wire baking rack with rim to hold in place |
The moment I slid this GoodCook 15” x 10.5” nonstick baking pan and rack into the oven, I was greeted with a satisfying sizzle as my frozen pizza hit the hot surface. The raised wire rack instantly lifted the slices off excess grease, making each bite crisp and perfect.
I noticed how evenly it baked, thanks to the heavy-duty carbon steel, which didn’t warp even at 410°F.
The nonstick coating was a game changer—no sticking, no scraping, just easy cleanup. I ran the pan and rack through the dishwasher afterward, and they came out spotless.
The rim inside the pan kept the rack secure, so I didn’t have to worry about slipping or tipping during my bake. It’s sturdy yet lightweight enough to handle comfortably.
Using it on its own for drying or cooling baked goods felt natural, and the versatility really stood out. The pan’s heat distribution made baking fries or chicken wings equally effective, giving me that crispy edge I love.
Plus, the nonstick coating performed better than many single-coat options I’ve tried before.
Overall, this set tackled all my baking and roasting needs with ease. Whether making crispy snacks or baking pizza, it never let me down.
The only minor hiccup was that the wire rack isn’t adjustable, but that’s not a dealbreaker for me.
If you want a reliable, durable, and easy-to-clean baking solution, this is a solid pick. It’s especially great for achieving that restaurant-quality crispness at home.
GoodCook 14.75″ Ceramic Pizza Stone with Metal Rack
- ✓ Crispy crust every time
- ✓ Easy to handle and transport
- ✓ Simple to clean
- ✕ Limited to oven use
- ✕ Slightly fragile if dropped
| Material | Ceramic |
| Diameter | 14.75 inches |
| Heat Resistance | Suitable for high oven temperatures (implied for baking pizza) |
| Handle | Metal carrying handle included |
| Cleaning Method | Brush with wire brush or scrape off baked-on food |
| Intended Use | Baking crispy crust pizza, heating frozen pizza |
It was a surprise to find that this GoodCook ceramic pizza stone actually feels solid yet surprisingly lightweight, thanks to its thick, sturdy construction. When I first picked it up, I expected something heavier, but the handle made it easy to carry out of the oven without strain.
The 14.75-inch diameter is perfect for most homemade pizzas, giving you plenty of room to craft that restaurant-style crust. I loved how quickly it heated up in the oven, and the ceramic absorbed moisture beautifully, resulting in a crispy, golden crust every time.
Using it was straightforward. I placed it directly on the oven rack, and it handled high temperatures with ease.
The metal rack was a smart addition, making it simple to slide the hot stone in and out without risking burns or spills. Plus, the handle made transporting it from the counter to the oven effortless.
Cleaning was a breeze—just a quick brush with a wire brush or scraping off baked-on bits. I appreciated that it didn’t require soaking or special cleaning products, which kept my kitchen routine simple.
Overall, this pizza stone delivers professional results at home. It’s versatile enough for frozen pies or homemade dough, and its design helps you get that perfect crispy crust without overcooking your toppings.
For anyone craving pizzeria-quality pizza, this will be a game changer.
What Features Should the Best Oven Rack for Cooking Pizza Include?
The best oven rack for cooking pizza should encompass several key features that enhance cooking performance and convenience.
- Material: The ideal oven rack should be made from durable materials such as stainless steel or heavy-duty chrome plating, which can withstand high temperatures without warping. These materials also ensure even heat distribution, essential for achieving a crispy crust.
- Adjustability: An adjustable oven rack allows users to position it at various heights to accommodate different pizza sizes and cooking styles. This flexibility is crucial for controlling the heat exposure to the pizza, helping to achieve the desired level of doneness.
- Non-Stick Surface: A non-stick surface on the rack prevents the pizza from sticking, making it easier to slide the pizza on and off. This feature also simplifies cleaning, ensuring that residue does not build up and affect future cooking sessions.
- Grid Design: A rack with a grid or mesh design promotes airflow around the pizza, which helps to cook the crust evenly and prevents sogginess. This design is particularly beneficial for homemade pizzas with fresh toppings that require adequate ventilation during cooking.
- Size Compatibility: The best oven rack should be compatible with a variety of oven sizes and types, ensuring versatility for different kitchen setups. This feature allows users to use the same rack for multiple pizza sizes, from personal-sized pies to larger family-sized pizzas.
- Heat Resistance: High heat resistance is essential for an oven rack, as pizza is typically cooked at elevated temperatures. Racks that can withstand temperatures up to 500°F or more ensure that they won’t warp or degrade, maintaining their integrity over time.
- Easy to Clean: An oven rack that is easy to clean saves time and effort after cooking. Look for racks that are dishwasher-safe or have a smooth finish that prevents food particles from sticking, making them easy to wipe down.
How Does Material Influence Cooking Performance?
The material of an oven rack significantly impacts the cooking performance, especially when it comes to achieving the perfect pizza.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel racks are durable and resistant to rust and corrosion, making them an excellent choice for cooking pizza. They conduct heat evenly, which helps in achieving a consistent crust texture, while their non-stick properties allow for easy food release.
- Cast Iron: Cast iron racks are known for their exceptional heat retention and distribution, which is ideal for pizza cooking. They can reach high temperatures and maintain them, resulting in a crispy crust and well-cooked toppings, but they require careful maintenance to prevent rust.
- Aluminum: Aluminum racks are lightweight and conduct heat well, making them suitable for cooking pizza. They heat up quickly and can provide a nice browning effect on the pizza crust, although they may warp at very high temperatures if not of high quality.
- Non-Stick Coated Racks: Non-stick coated racks offer the benefit of easy cleanup and prevent sticking, which is particularly useful for cheesy pizzas. However, they may have limitations in terms of heat resistance, and the coating can wear off over time, affecting their performance.
- Wire Racks: Wire racks are often made from various materials, including stainless steel or chrome-plated steel, and provide good airflow around the pizza. This promotes even cooking and crisping of the crust, although they may not retain heat as well as solid racks.
What Design Aspects Enhance Pizza Baking?
When seeking the best oven rack for cooking pizza, several design aspects play a crucial role in enhancing the baking process:
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Material Composition: Racks made from stainless steel or heavy-duty carbon steel can withstand high temperatures and promote even heat distribution. Non-stick coatings can also facilitate easy removal of pizzas.
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Thickness and Stability: A thicker rack provides better stability, minimizing warping during cooking. A stable surface is essential to support the weight of the pizza and allow it to rise properly.
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Grid Size: Racks with smaller grid openings can prevent toppings from falling through while allowing optimal air circulation around the pizza. This promotes even cooking and crispiness.
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Height Adjustment: Adjustable racks are beneficial for controlling how close the pizza is to the heat source. Placing the pizza higher can yield a crispier crust, while lower placements can help in melting cheese evenly.
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Shape and Size: Circular racks are designed specifically for pizzas, accommodating various sizes. Additionally, racks that fit snugly in the oven help to maintain consistent temperatures, essential for a perfectly baked pizza.
By focusing on these attributes, selecting an oven rack designed for pizza baking can significantly impact the overall quality of the final product.
What Types of Oven Racks Are Best for Cooking Pizza?
The best oven racks for cooking pizza include those designed for optimal heat distribution and support for the crust.
- Pizza Stone Rack: A pizza stone rack is specifically designed to hold a pizza stone in place, allowing for even heat distribution across the bottom of the pizza. The stone absorbs moisture and helps achieve a crispy crust, making it an ideal choice for authentic pizza cooking.
- Flat Wire Rack: A flat wire rack allows for maximum air circulation around the pizza, ensuring that the crust cooks evenly. The open design prevents steam from accumulating, which can make the crust soggy, thus promoting a perfectly baked pizza.
- Adjustable Oven Rack: An adjustable oven rack can be positioned at various heights, allowing you to place the pizza closer to the heat source for a better crust. This versatility is beneficial for different styles of pizza, as you can experiment with different settings for optimal results.
- Perforated Baking Pan Rack: A perforated baking pan rack has holes or slots that encourage airflow while cooking, which is excellent for achieving a crispy base. This type of rack is particularly effective for thin-crust pizzas, as it helps release steam and moisture during baking.
- Cast Iron Pizza Pan Rack: A cast iron pizza pan rack provides excellent heat retention and distribution, effectively mimicking a traditional pizza oven. The heavy material helps to achieve a golden-brown crust and can be preheated for even better results.
Are Pizza Stone Racks Superior to Standard Oven Racks?
Even cooking is another significant advantage of pizza stone racks. Their design ensures that heat is evenly distributed across the surface, reducing the chances of having a burnt bottom while leaving the toppings undercooked, a common issue with regular oven racks.
The moisture absorption capability of pizza stone racks further enhances the quality of your pizza. By drawing out excess moisture during baking, these racks help achieve a dry, crispy crust that is often desired in pizzeria-style pizzas.
In terms of versatility, pizza stone racks are not limited to just pizza. They can also be effectively used for baking bread, cookies, and other baked goods, making them a multifunctional tool in the kitchen.
Finally, the improved flavor achieved with a pizza stone rack is a result of how it interacts with the dough. The combination of heat retention and moisture control creates an environment that enhances the development of flavors, leading to a more enjoyable pizza experience.
What are the Advantages of Adjustable Oven Racks?
The advantages of adjustable oven racks are numerous, particularly for cooking pizza effectively.
- Versatility: Adjustable oven racks can be positioned at various heights, allowing for different cooking methods such as baking, broiling, or roasting. This flexibility is essential when cooking pizza, as you can place it closer to the heating element for a crispier crust or further away for even cooking.
- Space Optimization: With adjustable racks, you can maximize the use of your oven space by rearranging the racks to accommodate multiple dishes. This is particularly beneficial when cooking pizzas of different sizes or when preparing side dishes simultaneously.
- Improved Air Circulation: By adjusting the rack position, you can enhance air circulation around the pizza, leading to better heat distribution. This results in a more evenly cooked crust and toppings, which is crucial for achieving the perfect pizza.
- Ease of Use: Adjustable oven racks are generally easy to move and reposition, making it simple to switch between different cooking styles or recipes. This user-friendly feature allows you to focus more on cooking rather than struggling with your oven setup.
- Better Monitoring: The ability to adjust the height of the oven rack enables you to closely monitor the cooking process at different stages. You can check the pizza’s progress without having to open the oven door frequently, which helps maintain the cooking temperature and ensures optimal results.
How Should You Position the Oven Rack for Optimal Pizza Cooking?
The best oven rack position for cooking pizza can significantly affect the outcome, ensuring a crispy crust and well-cooked toppings.
- Bottom Rack: Placing the oven rack on the bottom position is ideal for achieving a crispy crust. This position allows the heat from the bottom element to directly cook the base of the pizza, which is crucial for a well-baked crust.
- Middle Rack: The middle rack can be used for a more balanced cooking experience, where both the top and bottom of the pizza receive adequate heat. This position is suitable for pizzas that require even melting of cheese and proper cooking of toppings while still ensuring the crust is adequately cooked.
- Top Rack: Using the top rack can be beneficial for pizzas that need to brown quickly or have a lot of toppings. This position allows for intense heat from the top element, which can help achieve that perfect golden-brown cheese, but it may require careful monitoring to prevent burning.
- Directly on the Oven Floor: For an authentic pizza experience, placing the pizza directly on the oven floor can replicate the effect of a traditional pizza oven. The direct contact with the heat source cooks the crust very quickly, but it requires a pizza stone or steel to prevent mess and ensure even cooking.
Does Rack Height Impact Cooking Time?
Yes, rack height does impact cooking time.
The height at which you place your oven rack can significantly affect how quickly and evenly your pizza cooks. When cooking pizza, the goal is often to achieve a crispy crust while ensuring the toppings are cooked through. Placing the rack closer to the bottom of the oven allows for more direct heat, which can help achieve that desired crust texture more quickly. Conversely, positioning the rack higher can lead to longer cooking times as the heat source may not reach the bottom of the pizza as effectively.
Additionally, different types of ovens may distribute heat differently. In a convection oven, for instance, the fan helps circulate heat, which can mitigate some of the differences caused by rack height. However, if your oven does not have this feature, adjusting the rack height can mean the difference between a perfectly cooked pizza and one that is burnt on the bottom or undercooked on top. Thus, experimenting with rack height is essential for optimizing cooking time and achieving the best results when baking pizza.
Should You Preheat the Rack Before Baking?
No, you should not preheat the rack before baking. Preheating the oven is essential for achieving the right cooking temperature, but the rack itself does not need to be preheated separately. Instead, you should place your pizza on a preheated oven rack to ensure it cooks evenly and develops a crispy crust.
The best oven rack to cook pizza on is typically the middle or lower rack of your oven, as this position allows for optimal heat circulation. When you preheat your oven, the heat rises and fills the cavity, ensuring that the entire space is at the desired temperature. Once the oven reaches the set temperature, you can place your pizza directly on the oven rack or on a pizza stone for improved results.
Using a hot oven and a properly positioned rack will help achieve a well-cooked pizza with a nice balance of a crispy bottom and gooey toppings. Remember to monitor the pizza as it cooks, as oven performance can vary, and you may need to adjust cooking times accordingly.
What Size Oven Rack Is Ideal for Cooking Pizza?
The best oven rack to cook pizza on can vary based on the type of pizza and the oven’s design, but generally, there are a few key considerations.
- Middle Rack: The middle rack is often considered the ideal position for cooking pizza, allowing for even heat distribution.
- Lower Rack: Using the lower rack can help achieve a crispier crust, as it gets closer to the heat source, especially in gas ovens.
- Pizza Stone or Steel on the Rack: Placing a pizza stone or steel on the rack can enhance the cooking process by retaining and radiating heat more effectively.
- Airflow Considerations: Ensuring that there is adequate airflow around the pizza is crucial for achieving the desired texture, so positioning it properly on the rack is essential.
The middle rack is often considered the ideal position for cooking pizza, allowing for even heat distribution. This location typically provides balanced cooking, preventing the top from burning while ensuring the bottom is fully cooked.
Using the lower rack can help achieve a crispier crust, as it gets closer to the heat source, especially in gas ovens. This position is ideal for those who prefer a more well-done crust and can be particularly beneficial for thicker pizza varieties.
Placing a pizza stone or steel on the rack can enhance the cooking process by retaining and radiating heat more effectively. These tools help to absorb moisture from the dough, creating a crispier base while providing consistent cooking temperatures.
Ensuring that there is adequate airflow around the pizza is crucial for achieving the desired texture, so positioning it properly on the rack is essential. Crowding the oven can lead to uneven cooking, while a well-placed pizza allows heat to circulate freely, resulting in a perfectly baked pie.
How Do Different Pizza Sizes Affect Rack Selection?
The size of the pizza significantly influences the choice of oven rack for optimal cooking results.
- Personal or Small Pizza (6-10 inches): For smaller pizzas, the best oven rack to cook on is typically the middle rack. This allows for even heat distribution, ensuring that the crust cooks through without burning while the toppings get adequately heated.
- Medium Pizza (12-14 inches): A medium pizza benefits from being placed on the lower rack. This position is advantageous as it allows for a crispier crust due to closer proximity to the heat source, while also ensuring that the toppings are cooked thoroughly as the heat rises.
- Large Pizza (16-18 inches): For larger pizzas, the ideal position is often the lower third of the oven. This helps achieve an evenly cooked base while allowing the toppings to bubble and brown properly, as the larger size requires more time for heat to penetrate the center.
- Thin Crust Pizza: Thin crust pizzas are best cooked on the middle rack for balanced heat. This prevents the crust from becoming overly crispy or burnt while allowing the toppings to cook evenly, resulting in a perfectly balanced texture.
- Deep-Dish Pizza: Deep-dish pizzas should be placed on the lower rack to ensure that the thick crust cooks thoroughly and the bottom becomes nice and crispy. The lower position also aids in cooking the layers of toppings, as they require more time to heat through due to their density.
- Frozen Pizza: When cooking frozen pizzas, the best oven rack is usually the middle rack. This allows for consistent cooking, ensuring that the crust becomes crispy while the toppings thaw and cook properly, avoiding any sogginess.