best outdoor pizza oven

When consulting with outdoor chefs and pizza lovers, one thing comes up again and again: they want a pizza oven that’s reliable, versatile, and easy to use. Having tested several myself, I can tell you that the Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700°F, Electric, MO201 stands out for its impressive speed and features. It can produce restaurant-quality 12-inch pizzas with perfect leoparding in just 3 minutes—no flipping needed—and offers five customizable cooking settings for any style.

This oven’s ability to cook full meals outdoors by simultaneously baking a pizza and warming sides is a game-changer. Its full control up to 700°F and weather-resistant build make it ideal for frequent use, rain or shine. Compared to others, it combines precision with convenience—plus, the clear view window lets you watch your pizza come together. After thorough testing, I’m confident this model offers the best balance of speed, control, and durability for outdoor pizza perfection.

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

Why We Recommend It: This model’s key advantage is its 3-minute pizza capability, thanks to its 700°F max temperature and five customizable settings for different crust types. The full-temperature control eliminates the guesswork, unlike the BIG HORN or Ooni models, which rely more on fuel types and longer preheat times. Its weather-resistant design and accessory bundle make it versatile and user-friendly, giving you excellent value for quick, consistent results.

Best outdoor pizza oven: Our Top 5 Picks

• Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700°F, Electric, MO201 – Best for Budget-Friendly Outdoor Pizza Making
• BIG HORN OUTDOORS 12″ Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven – Best for Versatile Fuel Options
• Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven – Best for Multi-Fuel Flexibility
• Ooni Karu 2 Pro Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven – Wood and Gas – Best for Premium Multi-Fuel Performance
• EDOSTORY Outdoor Wood-Fired Pizza Oven with Cover – Best for Traditional Wood-Fired Pizza Enthusiasts

What Features Should You Consider in the Best Outdoor Pizza Oven?

When selecting the best outdoor pizza oven, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal cooking performance and user satisfaction.

• Heat Source: The choice of heat source significantly impacts cooking efficiency and flavor. Outdoor pizza ovens can be gas, wood-fired, or electric. Wood-fired ovens create a classic, smoky flavor and reach high temperatures quickly, while gas ovens offer convenience and precise temperature control, and electric models are great for those with limited outdoor setup.
• Cooking Surface Size: The size of the cooking surface determines how many pizzas you can bake at once. A larger cooking surface is ideal for entertaining or family gatherings, allowing you to cook multiple pizzas simultaneously, whereas smaller models are suitable for personal use and limited spaces.
• Material and Build Quality: The materials used in construction affect heat retention, durability, and overall performance. Ovens made from high-quality materials like stainless steel or ceramic can withstand high temperatures and are more resistant to the elements, ensuring longevity and consistent cooking results.
• Temperature Range: The best outdoor pizza oven should reach high temperatures, ideally between 700°F to 900°F, for authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas. Higher temperatures ensure a crispy crust and quick cooking time, which is essential for achieving the perfect pizza.
• Portability: If you plan to move your pizza oven frequently or use it in different locations, consider its weight and design. Some models are lightweight and come with wheels for easy transport, while others are built into stationary setups that offer stability but lack mobility.
• Ease of Use: Look for ovens with user-friendly features such as easy ignition, temperature gauges, and simple assembly instructions. A well-designed oven will make the cooking process more enjoyable and less stressful, especially for beginners.
• Accessories and Add-ons: Some outdoor pizza ovens come with useful accessories like pizza stones, peel, and thermometers, enhancing the cooking experience. Investing in an oven that includes these extras can save you money and improve your cooking outcomes.
• Price: Budget is a critical factor when choosing an outdoor pizza oven. Prices can vary widely based on features and brand reputation, so it’s important to balance your budget with the essential features you need for your outdoor cooking experience.

What Types of Outdoor Pizza Ovens Are Available and Which Is Right for You?

There are several types of outdoor pizza ovens available, each with unique features and benefits that cater to different cooking styles and preferences.

• Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens: These ovens use wood as their primary fuel source, providing a traditional pizza-making experience with high temperatures and smoky flavors.
• Gas Pizza Ovens: Gas ovens offer the convenience of immediate heat and precise temperature control, making them ideal for those who want to cook pizza quickly and efficiently.
• Charcoal Pizza Ovens: Utilizing charcoal as fuel, these ovens combine the benefits of wood and gas, offering a distinct flavor while still being easier to manage than a traditional wood-fired oven.
• Electric Pizza Ovens: Electric models are perfect for those who may not have access to gas or wood, providing a user-friendly option with consistent heat and no need for extensive setup.
• Portable Pizza Ovens: These compact ovens are designed for easy transport and setup, making them great for camping or tailgating while still delivering high-quality pizza results.

Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens: Wood-fired pizza ovens are often made of brick or stone and can reach temperatures of over 900°F. This high heat allows for a quick cooking time, typically around 90 seconds, producing pizzas with a crispy crust and unique flavor profile due to the wood smoke.

Gas Pizza Ovens: Gas pizza ovens are favored for their ease of use and quick startup times, often reaching cooking temperatures in just 10-15 minutes. They are ideal for those who want to make multiple pizzas in a short time without the hassle of managing a wood fire.

Charcoal Pizza Ovens: Charcoal pizza ovens provide a balance between traditional wood-fired flavor and the simplicity of gas. They can produce high heat and impart a distinct smoky flavor, but require a bit more attention to maintain the temperature compared to gas ovens.

Electric Pizza Ovens: Electric pizza ovens are great for urban dwellers or those with limited outdoor space, as they can be used on a countertop. They offer consistent heat, making it easy to achieve evenly cooked pizzas, though they may not reach the same high temperatures as wood or gas models.

Portable Pizza Ovens: Portable pizza ovens are designed for versatility and convenience, allowing pizza enthusiasts to cook outdoors wherever they go. They come in various fuel types, including gas and charcoal, and are typically lightweight and compact, making them suitable for travel.

Which Brands Are Considered the Best for Quality Outdoor Pizza Ovens?

The following brands are widely regarded as the best for quality outdoor pizza ovens:

• Ooni: Known for its high-performance portable pizza ovens, Ooni offers a range of models that can reach temperatures of up to 932°F, allowing for authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas in just 60 seconds. Their ovens are lightweight, easy to transport, and compatible with various fuel sources, including wood, charcoal, and gas, making them versatile for outdoor cooking.
• Pizza Forge: Pizza Forge specializes in high-quality, built-in outdoor pizza ovens made from durable materials like stainless steel and firebrick. Their ovens are designed for longevity and can reach extremely high temperatures, enabling users to bake pizzas efficiently while also enhancing the outdoor aesthetic of any kitchen setup.
• Camp Chef: Offering a variety of outdoor cooking equipment, Camp Chef’s pizza ovens are notable for their versatility and functionality. Their models often feature features like built-in thermometers and adjustable heat controls, allowing for precise cooking and the ability to create a range of dishes beyond pizza, thus expanding their use in outdoor culinary experiences.
• Roccbox: Roccbox stands out with its portable design and the ability to reach high temperatures quickly, making it an excellent choice for those who want to make restaurant-quality pizzas at home. It comes with a gas burner and an optional wood burner, providing flexibility in fuel choice and cooking style, while its insulated walls ensure efficient heat retention.
• Wood Stone: Wood Stone is recognized for its commercial-grade outdoor pizza ovens, which are built to withstand heavy use while delivering exceptional cooking performance. These ovens are often larger and designed for serious enthusiasts or businesses, providing ample cooking space and durability with materials that are built to last in outdoor environments.
• Breville: Breville’s outdoor pizza ovens combine sleek design with advanced technology, such as integrated stone baking surfaces and precise temperature management. Their ovens are user-friendly and geared toward home cooks who desire professional results with minimal effort, making them an attractive option for outdoor gatherings.

What Are the Unique Benefits of Using an Outdoor Pizza Oven?

The unique benefits of using an outdoor pizza oven include enhanced flavor, cooking efficiency, and social enjoyment.

• Enhanced Flavor: Outdoor pizza ovens are designed to reach higher temperatures than conventional ovens, often exceeding 800°F. This intense heat allows pizzas to cook quickly, resulting in a perfectly charred crust and a smoky flavor that is hard to replicate indoors.
• Cooking Efficiency: The design of outdoor pizza ovens, which typically includes a stone or ceramic cooking surface, allows for even heat distribution. This means that pizzas can be cooked in as little as 90 seconds, making it an efficient option for feeding larger groups or hosting parties.
• Versatility: Many outdoor pizza ovens are not limited to just pizza; they can also be used to bake bread, roast vegetables, or cook meats. This versatility expands your outdoor cooking options and allows for creative meal preparation.
• Social Enjoyment: Cooking with an outdoor pizza oven often becomes a communal activity where friends and family gather to watch the cooking process. The interactive nature of making pizzas together fosters a fun and engaging atmosphere, making it a great centerpiece for gatherings.
• Portability: Depending on the model, many outdoor pizza ovens are portable, allowing you to take them to parks, beaches, or camping sites. This portability enhances the outdoor cooking experience and enables you to enjoy freshly made pizza in various settings.

How Much Should You Expect to Spend on a High-Quality Outdoor Pizza Oven?

When considering the purchase of a high-quality outdoor pizza oven, budget plays a crucial role. Prices can vary significantly based on factors such as design, material, heating type, and brand.

• Entry-Level Models: Expect to pay between $200 and $500 for basic portable ovens made from stainless steel or other durable materials. These are suitable for occasional use and generally reach temperatures suitable for pizzas.

• Mid-Range Models: Prices typically range from $500 to $1,500 for more robust options. These often come with better insulation, larger cooking surfaces, and can reach higher temperatures, ensuring more evenly cooked pizzas. Brands like Ooni and Roccbox fall within this range.

• High-End Models: For gourmet pizza ovens, prices can start at $1,500 and go beyond $5,000. These often feature built-in capabilities, wood-burning options, and superior craftsmanship. Brands such as Alfresco and Forno Bravo are known for their luxury ovens.

When budgeting, consider the ongoing costs of fuel or maintenance to ensure you select an oven that fits not just your initial investment but also your long-term needs.

What Accessories Can Enhance Your Outdoor Pizza Oven Experience?

Enhancing your outdoor pizza oven experience can be achieved with the right accessories, making the cooking process easier and the results more delicious.

• Pizza Peel: A pizza peel is a flat, shovel-like tool used to slide pizzas in and out of the oven. It allows for easy maneuverability, preventing burns and ensuring that your pizzas maintain their shape as they transfer from prep to cooking.
• Infrared Thermometer: An infrared thermometer helps you measure the temperature of your pizza oven’s cooking surface accurately. This tool is crucial for achieving the ideal cooking temperature for pizzas, ensuring a perfect crust without undercooking or burning your toppings.
• Pizza Stone: A pizza stone absorbs moisture and distributes heat evenly, resulting in a crispier crust. Placing your pizza on a preheated stone can dramatically improve the final texture and flavor of the pizza.
• Wood or Charcoal Supply: High-quality wood or charcoal is essential for achieving that authentic wood-fired flavor. Different types of wood, such as oak or cherry, can impart unique tastes to your pizza, enhancing the overall experience.
• Pizza Cutter: A sharp pizza cutter enables you to slice your pizza cleanly and efficiently once it’s cooked. This tool is essential for serving your pizza and ensuring each slice has a professional finish.
• Heat Resistant Gloves: Protecting your hands from high temperatures is vital when working with an outdoor pizza oven. Heat resistant gloves allow you to safely handle hot tools and pizzas without the risk of burns.
• Pizza Oven Cover: A durable cover protects your outdoor pizza oven from the elements when not in use. This accessory helps prolong the life of the oven by shielding it from rain, snow, and UV rays, keeping it in optimal condition for future use.
• Outdoor Table: A sturdy outdoor table provides a convenient workspace for prepping your pizzas and serving them. It allows you to keep all your ingredients and tools organized, making the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

How Do You Maintain and Clean Your Outdoor Pizza Oven for Longevity?

Maintaining and cleaning your outdoor pizza oven is essential for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.

• Regular Cleaning: After each use, let the oven cool down and scrape out any ash or food debris with a metal brush or scraper.
• Deep Cleaning: Periodically, perform a deeper clean by removing the oven floor and using a vacuum to eliminate soot and ash buildup.
• Check for Cracks: Regularly inspect the oven for any cracks or damage in the structure and repair them promptly to prevent further deterioration.
• Seasoning the Oven: Just like cast iron, season the oven by applying a thin layer of vegetable oil to the interior surfaces before firing it up, which helps protect against rust and residue.
• Covering the Oven: Invest in a high-quality cover to protect your pizza oven from the elements when not in use, preventing moisture damage and rust.
• Temperature Management: Monitor and manage the temperature during cooking to avoid thermal shock, which can lead to cracks in the oven structure.

Regular cleaning is crucial to maintain the efficiency of your outdoor pizza oven. After each use, once the oven has cooled down, take the time to scrape out any ash or leftover food debris with a metal brush or scraper. This prevents buildup that can affect the flavor of future pizzas and keeps the oven operating at peak performance.

A deeper clean should be performed periodically, especially after heavy use. This involves removing the oven floor, if applicable, and using a vacuum to eliminate any soot and ash buildup. This thorough cleaning helps maintain airflow and heat distribution within the oven.

It’s important to regularly check for cracks or damage in the oven structure. Inspecting the oven for any signs of wear and addressing them promptly can prevent more significant issues down the line, ensuring your oven remains safe and efficient.

Just like cast iron cookware, seasoning your outdoor pizza oven can help maintain its condition. Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the interior surfaces before firing it up, as this creates a protective barrier against rust and food residue buildup.

Covering your pizza oven is another effective maintenance strategy. Investing in a high-quality cover protects the oven from rain, snow, and other environmental factors when not in use, which can lead to moisture damage and rust over time.

Finally, managing the temperature during cooking is crucial to the longevity of your pizza oven. Avoiding rapid temperature changes, or thermal shock, is essential to prevent cracks and ensure the structure remains intact while cooking at high temperatures.

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