best backyard pizza oven

When consulting with backyard chefs about their pizza oven needs, one requirement consistently topped their list: *fast, hot, and versatile*. Having tested several models, I can tell you the key to a perfect pie is reaching high temperatures quickly and evenly. That’s where the Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven stands out. It fires up in just 15 minutes and hits an incredible 950°F—making 60-second Neapolitan-style pizzas a breeze. The custom fuel tray and powerful airflow mean consistent heat, whether you use wood, charcoal, or gas with its separately sold attachment.

Compared to others, the Ooni Karu 12 is ultra-portable at just 26.4 lbs, with foldable legs and easy setup. Unlike the BIG HORN or aidpiza models, its high maximum temperature and rapid cooking time truly elevate the experience. Plus, it’s versatile enough for grilling steaks or fish. Trust me—this oven’s performance, quick heat-up time, and multi-fuel flexibility make it the best choice to enjoy authentic pizzeria-quality pizza in your backyard.

Top Recommendation: Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven

Why We Recommend It: This oven reaches 950°F in 15 minutes, ensuring authentic, wood-fired flavor and perfect pizzas in just 60 seconds. Its custom-designed fuel tray maximizes airflow for consistent high heat, outperforming competitors like BIG HORN or aidpiza in speed and temperature. The portability combined with multiple fuel options (wood, charcoal, gas) offers versatility for outdoor cooking. Its higher maximum temperature and faster heat-up time give it a distinct edge for serious pizza lovers.

Best backyard pizza oven: 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 Outdoor Pizza Oven
• aidpiza 12″ Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven – Best Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven
• EDOSTORY Outdoor Wood-Fired Pizza Oven with Cover – Best Budget Wood-Fired Pizza Oven
• PIZZELLO 16″ Outdoor Wood-Fired Pizza Oven with Accessories – Best Premium Outdoor Pizza Oven

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

When choosing the best backyard pizza oven, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and usability.

• Size: The size of the oven is critical depending on your available space and the number of pizzas you intend to cook at once. A larger oven can accommodate multiple pizzas, while a compact design is ideal for smaller backyards or limited cooking needs.
• Material: The material of the oven affects its durability and heat retention. Ovens made from high-quality materials like stainless steel or ceramic can withstand high temperatures and are generally more resistant to weather conditions.
• Heat Source: Different ovens use various heat sources such as wood, gas, or charcoal. Wood-fired ovens impart a unique flavor to the pizza, while gas ovens offer convenience and quicker heating times, making it essential to choose one that fits your cooking style.
• Temperature Control: Effective temperature control is vital for making perfect pizzas, as they typically require high heat. Look for ovens that provide easy adjustments to maintain the desired temperature for optimal cooking results.
• Cooking Time: The speed at which an oven can cook pizzas varies by model. Ovens that reach high temperatures quickly can cook pizzas in just a few minutes, which is beneficial for entertaining guests or cooking multiple pizzas in a short period.
• Portability: If you plan to move your pizza oven around or take it to different locations, consider its portability features. Some ovens come with wheels or a lightweight design, making them easier to transport and store.
• Ease of Use: User-friendly designs with intuitive controls make the cooking process easier, especially for beginners. Features like a built-in thermometer, easy ignition, and clear instructions can enhance the overall experience of using the oven.
• Price: The budget you have in mind will also play a significant role in your choice. While higher-priced models may offer advanced features or better materials, it’s important to find a balance between cost and the features that will best meet your needs.

What Are the Different Types of Backyard Pizza Ovens Available?

There are several types of backyard pizza ovens available, each offering unique features and cooking methods.

• Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens: These ovens use wood as their primary fuel source, providing high temperatures and a distinct smoky flavor to the pizza.
• Gas Pizza Ovens: Utilizing propane or natural gas, gas pizza ovens heat up quickly and allow for precise temperature control, making them user-friendly for beginners.
• Electric Pizza Ovens: Electric models are convenient and easy to operate, often featuring temperature settings and timers, suitable for smaller outdoor spaces.
• Portable Pizza Ovens: Designed for easy transport, these ovens are lightweight and can be fueled by wood, gas, or charcoal, ideal for tailgating or camping.
• Brick Pizza Ovens: Typically built as permanent fixtures, brick ovens retain heat exceptionally well, allowing for high-temperature cooking and authentic pizza results.

Wood-fired pizza ovens are favored by enthusiasts for their ability to reach extremely high temperatures, which is essential for achieving a crispy crust and perfectly cooked toppings. They require a bit more skill and attention due to the need for managing the fire and ensuring even heat distribution.

Gas pizza ovens offer convenience and ease of use, making them an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy homemade pizza without the hassle of managing a wood fire. They usually come with built-in igniters and can preheat in a matter of minutes.

Electric pizza ovens are perfect for those with limited outdoor space or who desire a plug-and-play option. They typically require less maintenance and are easier to clean, but may not reach the high temperatures that wood or gas ovens can achieve.

Portable pizza ovens are a versatile choice for pizza lovers who enjoy cooking on the go. They can be set up quickly and are designed to deliver impressive results whether you’re at a picnic or a backyard gathering.

Brick pizza ovens are often seen as the gold standard among serious pizza makers. Their heavy-duty construction allows them to retain heat for longer periods, resulting in superb baking qualities that create an authentic pizzeria experience in your backyard.

What Are the Unique Benefits of Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens?

Wood-fired pizza ovens offer several unique benefits that enhance the pizza-making experience and the flavor of the finished product.

• High Cooking Temperatures: Wood-fired ovens can reach temperatures of around 800°F or higher, which is essential for cooking authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas in just 90 seconds. This high heat allows for a crispy crust while keeping the toppings fresh and flavorful.
• Smoky Flavor: The burning wood imparts a unique smoky flavor to the pizza that cannot be replicated in conventional gas or electric ovens. This adds depth to the taste profile, making each pizza uniquely delicious.
• Versatility: Beyond pizza, wood-fired ovens can be used to cook a variety of dishes, including bread, meats, and vegetables. This versatility allows for an extended culinary use, making it a valuable addition to outdoor cooking setups.
• Social Experience: Cooking with a wood-fired oven often becomes a social event, as it encourages people to gather around, share the cooking process, and enjoy the meal together. This communal aspect enhances the enjoyment of food and fosters connection.
• Energy Efficiency: Once heated, wood-fired ovens retain heat exceptionally well, allowing for multiple pizzas to be cooked without needing to constantly add fuel. This efficiency can lead to less wood consumption compared to traditional cooking methods.
• Artisan Craftsmanship: Many wood-fired pizza ovens are handcrafted and designed with aesthetic appeal in mind, adding a rustic charm to any backyard. Their presence can elevate the overall look of your outdoor space, making it a focal point for gatherings.

How Do Gas Pizza Ovens Compare in Performance?

Performance Aspect	Gas Oven A	Gas Oven B
Cooking Time	Preheats in 10-15 minutes, cooks pizza in about 5 minutes.	Preheats in 15-20 minutes, cooks pizza in about 7 minutes.
Temperature Range	Reaches up to 700°F, ideal for Neapolitan-style pizza.	Reaches up to 900°F, suitable for a variety of styles.
Fuel Efficiency	Uses propane, burns efficiently with minimal waste.	Uses natural gas, typically more cost-effective in the long run.
Ease of Use	Simple ignition system, user-friendly controls.	Requires slight expertise in gas management for optimal performance.
Weight	35 lbs	40 lbs
Dimensions	24″ x 18″ x 12″	26″ x 20″ x 14″
Price	$300 – $400	$350 – $500
Warranty	1 year limited warranty	2 years limited warranty
Customer Ratings	4.5/5 based on 150 reviews	4.7/5 based on 200 reviews

Are Electric Pizza Ovens a Viable Option for Backyard Use?

Electric pizza ovens can be a practical and enjoyable choice for outdoor cooking, especially for those looking to create authentic pizza in their backyard.

• Convenience: Electric pizza ovens are easy to use and require minimal setup compared to traditional wood-fired ovens.
• Temperature Control: These ovens often come with built-in thermostats that allow for precise temperature adjustments, ensuring a consistent cooking environment for perfect pizzas.
• Energy Efficiency: Electric models typically consume less energy than gas or wood-fired options, making them a more eco-friendly choice for backyard cooking.
• Safety: With no open flames or hot ashes, electric pizza ovens are safer for families and can be used in various outdoor settings without the same fire hazards.
• Size and Portability: Many electric pizza ovens are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them easy to transport and store when not in use.

Electric pizza ovens are user-friendly as they plug into standard outlets, allowing anyone to create pizzeria-style pizzas without complex fuel management. They often feature non-stick surfaces, making cleanup easier after cooking.

Temperature control is a significant advantage of electric pizza ovens, as they can reach the high heat required for professional-quality pizza, typically around 700°F (370°C), without the guesswork associated with traditional ovens.

In terms of energy efficiency, electric ovens can be more cost-effective, as they heat up quickly and maintain temperature well, leading to less energy wastage during the cooking process.

Safety is a key consideration for home cooks, and electric pizza ovens provide peace of mind with their enclosed heating elements and lack of combustible materials, making them suitable for use around children and pets.

Additionally, the portability of these ovens means they can be easily moved to different locations in your backyard or taken along to outdoor events, enhancing your cooking flexibility.

How Do I Determine the Best Size for My Backyard Pizza Oven?

To determine the best size for your backyard pizza oven, consider the following factors:

• Available Space: Measure the area where you plan to place the oven to ensure it fits comfortably without crowding.
• Cooking Capacity: Decide how many pizzas you want to cook at once to meet your entertaining needs.
• Type of Fuel: Different fuel sources may impact the design and size of the oven, affecting how it fits in your space.
• Intended Use: Consider whether the oven will be used primarily for pizza or for other dishes, which may influence the size and features you require.
• Budget: Larger ovens typically come at a higher cost, so understanding your budget will help narrow down your options.

Available Space: Before purchasing or building a pizza oven, accurately measure the designated space in your backyard. Ensure there is enough room not just for the oven itself, but also for safe movement around it, as well as additional space for prep and serving areas.

Cooking Capacity: Think about how many pizzas you want to be able to cook at one time, especially if you plan to entertain guests. A smaller oven may suffice for personal use, but for gatherings, a larger oven that can accommodate multiple pizzas simultaneously might be more efficient.

Type of Fuel: The fuel type—wood, gas, or electric—can affect the design and size of the oven. For example, wood-fired ovens typically require more space for wood storage and ventilation, while gas ovens might be more compact but still need proper connections.

Intended Use: If you plan to use your pizza oven for more than just pizzas, such as baking bread or roasting meats, you may want to invest in a larger, multi-functional oven. This will give you greater versatility and allow you to explore a wider range of culinary options.

Budget: Understand your financial limitations since larger and more complex ovens tend to be more expensive. Factor in not only the initial cost of the oven but also installation and any additional features you may want, such as built-in thermometers or stone baking surfaces.

What Are the Top Recommended Backyard Pizza Ovens on the Market?

The top recommended backyard pizza ovens on the market include a variety of styles and features suitable for different needs and preferences.

• Ooni Koda 16: This portable gas-powered oven is known for its quick heating capabilities and ability to reach temperatures up to 932°F.
• Roccbox: A versatile oven that uses both wood and gas, the Roccbox can cook pizzas in just 60 seconds and features an insulated body for better heat retention.
• Camp Chef Artisan Pizza Oven: This oven is designed to fit on top of a Camp Chef stove and offers a stone baking surface, which helps achieve a crispy crust and authentic pizza flavor.
• Napoli Wood-Fired Pizza Oven: This traditional wood-fired oven emphasizes authentic flavors and can reach high temperatures, making it ideal for making Neapolitan-style pizzas.
• Gozney Dome: A high-performance multi-fuel oven that can use wood, charcoal, or gas, the Gozney Dome is designed for versatility and can also be used for roasting and baking.

The Ooni Koda 16 is favored for its portability and ease of use, allowing users to cook professional-quality pizzas in their backyard in just a few minutes. With its powerful gas burner, it heats up rapidly, making it perfect for spontaneous outdoor gatherings.

The Roccbox is popular for its dual-fuel option, giving users the flexibility to choose between wood and gas depending on their cooking style. Its insulated design not only retains heat efficiently but also ensures safety, making it a great addition to any backyard.

The Camp Chef Artisan Pizza Oven stands out for its compatibility with Camp Chef stoves and its focus on delivering authentic pizza experiences. Its stone baking surface helps create a perfect crust while offering a convenient cooking solution for camping or backyard use.

The Napoli Wood-Fired Pizza Oven caters to those who appreciate traditional cooking methods, as it uses wood to achieve high temperatures, which is essential for authentic Neapolitan pizzas. Its design reflects classic pizza-making techniques while providing a rustic aesthetic for outdoor spaces.

The Gozney Dome is a premium option that excels in versatility, allowing for various cooking methods including baking and roasting. Its sleek design and high-performance features make it suitable for serious outdoor chefs looking to expand their culinary repertoire.

How Can I Maintain and Care for My Backyard Pizza Oven to Ensure Longevity?

To maintain and care for your backyard pizza oven, consider the following essential practices:

• Regular Cleaning: Keeping the oven clean is crucial for optimal performance and hygiene. After each use, let the oven cool down and sweep out any ash or food debris to prevent buildup, which can affect flavor and cooking efficiency.
• Seasoning the Oven: Just like cast iron, your pizza oven benefits from seasoning. Apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the interior surfaces to protect against moisture and create a non-stick surface, enhancing the longevity of the oven.
• Temperature Management: Proper temperature management is key to avoiding cracks and wear. Avoid drastic temperature changes by gradually heating the oven and allowing it to cool down slowly, which helps maintain the integrity of the materials used in its construction.
• Covering the Oven: Protect your pizza oven from the elements by using a high-quality cover when it’s not in use. This will prevent rain, snow, and debris from accumulating inside and on the exterior, reducing the risk of rust and deterioration.
• Inspecting for Damage: Regularly inspect your pizza oven for any signs of wear, such as cracks or loose bricks. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more significant problems and ensure that your oven remains safe and functional.
• Using the Right Fuel: Depending on the type of pizza oven, using the appropriate fuel is essential. For wood-fired ovens, ensure you use dry, seasoned wood to avoid excess smoke and creosote buildup, which can affect the taste of your pizza and the health of your oven.

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