Cooking in a pizza oven isn’t just about making pizza. These versatile ovens can handle a variety of dishes that might surprise you. From meat to veggies and even desserts, there’s a lot you can do with one.
How can a pizza oven enhance your cooking experience? It’s all about these ovens’ high heat and even cooking.
This unique method infuses your food with rich flavors you can’t get from a regular oven. Join me as I explore 15 exciting recipes you can make in your pizza oven.
1. Margherita Pizza
Margherita Pizza is a classic. I love making this at home because it’s simple yet flavorful.
Ingredients:
- Tipo 00 flour (or all-purpose flour if you don’t have it)
- Canned tomatoes
- Fresh basil leaves
- Mozzarella cheese
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and minced garlic
Steps:
- Prepare the dough: For the best results, use Tipo 00 flour. Mix with water, yeast, and salt. Let it rise for 45 minutes to an hour.
- Make the sauce: Crush canned tomatoes by hand. Mix with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread ¾ cup over the dough, leaving about 1 inch bare around the edges.
- Assemble the pizza: Place cubed mozzarella cheese on top. Pat the cheese with a paper towel to remove extra moisture. Add fresh basil leaves.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to its highest setting. Transfer the dough to a cornmeal-dusted baking sheet and bake for 7 minutes until the crust is partially cooked. Then, bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
2. BBQ Chicken Pizza
Making BBQ Chicken Pizza at home is a delicious treat. I always prepare the dough, following my favorite pizza dough recipe. If you’re short on time, store-bought thawed dough works, too.
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough
- Cooked chicken breast
- BBQ sauce
- Mozzarella cheese
- Red onions
- Cilantro
First, preheat your oven to 475°F (246°C). Let it heat while you assemble the pizza. Spread BBQ sauce evenly over the stretched dough.
Cooking Tips:
- Chicken: Cook your chicken beforehand. To save time, use leftover chicken. Some recipes suggest cooking it for about 25 minutes at 400°F.
- Cheese: Mix mozzarella with a bit of gouda for extra flavor.
- Toppings: Don’t skip the onions and cilantro—they add great zest.
Once the dough is ready, layer BBQ sauce, chicken, cheese, and onions. Bake for about 14-16 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
A BBQ Chicken Pizza is done when the edges are crispy and golden. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your pizza hot and flavorful!
3. Pepperoni and Sausage Pizza
Let’s make a delicious pepperoni and sausage pizza. First, I roll the dough into a 12-inch circle. My dough must sit out for at least 30 minutes if it’s from the fridge or an hour if it’s frozen.
Next, I start preheating the oven to 500°F, placing the pizza stone inside.
For the toppings, I spread the sauce evenly over the dough. Then, I sprinkle oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. I carefully arrange mozzarella slices, followed by crumbled sweet Italian sausage and pepperoni slices.
When everything is ready, I slide the pizza onto the hot stone. It bakes quickly, in just 8-10 minutes, until the crust edges are golden and the cheese is melted.
Here’s a quick step-by-step:
- Roll dough: 12-inch circle
- Preheat oven: 500°F
- Spread sauce and spices
- Add mozzarella, sausage, and pepperoni
- Bake: 8-10 minutes
Enjoy a hot, homemade pizza with a crispy crust and melted cheese. Perfect for any pizza lover!
4. Grilled Vegetable Pizza
I love using my pizza oven to make grilled vegetables. They come out perfectly charred and delicious. Here’s how I do it:
First, I slice my favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, and toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper for seasoning.
Then, I preheat the oven to a high temperature, around 450°F, which helps me get that perfect grill mark.
Next, I place the vegetables on a baking sheet or directly on a grill pan if you have one. Grill them for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Remember to watch them, as some veggies cook quicker than others.
Here are some vegetables you might like to try:
- Bell Peppers: Sweet and smoky flavor
- Zucchini: Soft texture with a slight bite
- Mushrooms: Earthy and rich taste
- Red Onions: Slightly caramelized edges
These grilled vegetables can be used as a pizza topping. They add a wonderful burst of flavor. For more ideas, check out this Grilled Vegetable Pizza recipe.
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. The possibilities are endless!
5. Buffalo Chicken Pizza
I love making Buffalo Chicken Pizza! It’s perfect for pizza night.
First, preheat the oven to 400°F. I usually roll the dough on a well-floured surface into a 12-inch circle and place it on my pizza stone.
Next, I prepare the sauce. I melt the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, then whisk in flour. I add cold milk while whisking constantly. I mix Frank’s hot sauce and a dash of Worcestershire sauce to give it that classic Buffalo flavor.
I spread a mixture of softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning over the crust for the toppings. Then, I layer on cooked chicken pieces tossed in Buffalo sauce.
Finally, I sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella over the top. Sometimes, I like to add a bit of cheddar for extra flavor.
Bake the pizza for about 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Pro Tip: Watch it carefully to prevent overcooking!
Once it’s out of the oven, I garnish with a little chopped green onion or cilantro.
6. Mushroom and Ricotta Pizza
Making a Mushroom and Ricotta Pizza is one of my favorite ways to enjoy a pizza night. The combination of savory mushrooms and creamy ricotta is simply delicious.
First, preheat your oven to 450°F. If you have a pizza stone, let it heat up in the oven for about 30 minutes. This helps to get a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (I like a mix of cremini and shiitake)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like oregano or basil) for garnish
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the shallot and garlic until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the mushrooms and cook until they are golden brown.
While the mushrooms are cooking, roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Spread ricotta cheese evenly over the dough, and then top with the mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy. Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh herbs for added flavor. This recipe is inspired by a delicious version I found on Leite’s Culinaria. Enjoy!
7. Hawaiian Pizza
I love making Hawaiian pizza for a fun twist on the classic flavors. The combination of sweet pineapple and savory ham is irresistible.
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough
- Pizza sauce
- Mozzarella cheese
- Canadian bacon
- Pineapple chunks
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
First, preheat your oven to 500 degrees F (260 degrees C) for the best crust.
Roll out the pizza dough and place it on a lightly greased baking sheet.
Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on the dough. Add mozzarella cheese evenly across the surface.
Add slices of Canadian bacon and pineapple chunks over the cheese.
Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the toppings to help everything crisp up nicely.
Sprinkle some Italian seasoning on top for extra flavor.
Baking:
- Bake the pizza for 12-14 minutes at 500 degrees F until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn.
Once the pizza is done, slice it up and enjoy!
8. White Garlic Bliss Pizza
White Garlic Bliss Pizza is one of my absolute favorites. The combination of creamy white sauce and roasted garlic is perfect.
To start, I prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, I melt butter, then whisk in flour and keep stirring for about two minutes. It’s important not to let it brown.
I gradually add milk, whisking until the mixture is smooth, thick, and bubbly. I season it with sea salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. The aroma is simply irresistible!
For the dough, I recommend following a great pizza dough recipe. It only takes about an hour to prepare.
Once the dough is ready, I stretch it out and spread the garlic sauce evenly over it. I like to top it with a generous amount of mozzarella and a sprinkle of oregano.
Baking this pizza at 450°F until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted makes a great finish. The flavor of roasted garlic combined with the creamy sauce is a true delight for any pizza lover.
This recipe never fails to impress guests. It’s a hit at every gathering, and I always get asked for the recipe. Simple, yet incredibly flavorful!
9. Spinach and Feta Pizza
I love making Spinach and Feta Pizza. The combination of fresh spinach and salty feta is delicious.
This pizza usually features a thin, crispy crust. I sometimes use a simple crust recipe that works well for this pizza type.
Key Ingredients:
- Fresh Spinach
- Feta Cheese
- Mozzarella Cheese
- Garlic
- Olive Oil
A good béchamel sauce can be used as the base. It adds a creamy texture and rich flavor. I also like to add some red onions and sun-dried tomatoes for extra taste.
Quick Tip: To keep the crust crispy, use drier toppings.
Another version I make is with flatbread. It’s a faster way, especially when using store-bought naan bread. Just spread some olive oil, add toppings, and bake!
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
Tables can be useful too! Here’s a simple guide:
Step | Task |
---|---|
1 | Preheat oven to 450°F |
2 | Sauté spinach |
3 | Spread sauce |
4 | Add cheeses and toppings |
5 | Bake for 10-12 mins |
Making Spinach and Feta Pizza at home is both fun and rewarding. Enjoy!
10. Pesto and Tomato Pizza
Pesto and tomato pizza is one of my favorites to make. The combination of fresh pesto, juicy tomatoes, and melted mozzarella is unbeatable.
First, make the pizza dough. I usually use a simple recipe that combines flour, olive oil, yeast, salt, and water. Knead it until smooth and let it rise for about 45 minutes.
Spread the pesto sauce over the stretched dough. You can use basil pesto or even arugula pesto for a peppery twist. Both taste fantastic.
Layer the pizza with sliced tomatoes and shredded mozzarella. The tomatoes should be fresh and ripe for the best flavor.
Bake the pizza at 425°F for about 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. I like to add a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt before baking.
Tips for the best pesto and tomato pizza:
- Use a pizza stone for a crispier crust.
- Add fresh basil and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Brush the crust with a bit of olive oil before baking for a nice finish.
This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings!
11. Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza
Making a prosciutto and arugula pizza is simple and delicious. I love the mix of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough
- Olive oil
- Mozzarella cheese
- Prosciutto
- Fresh arugula
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
I start by rolling out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface.
Brush the dough with olive oil and sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly.
Bake in a preheated oven at 500°F for 6-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden.
While the pizza bakes, I toss fresh arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Once the pizza is out of the oven, I drape slices of prosciutto over it.
Top the pizza with the dressed arugula just before serving. This gives a fresh, peppery crunch that pairs perfectly with the salty prosciutto.
For more details, check out this arugula and prosciutto pizza recipe. You can also try a version with balsamic drizzle for extra flavor.
12. Mediterranean Pizza
Mediterranean pizza is a blend of fresh and savory flavors. I always start with a homemade or store-bought pizza dough. For the base, I prefer to use tomato sauce or pesto.
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- Tomato sauce or pesto
- Mozzarella cheese (1.5 cups)
- Slices of tomato
- Pitted black olives and Kalamata olives
- Red onion slices
- Spinach leaves
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Dried basil and thyme
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 450°F, or 500°F if using a pizza stone.
- Roll out the dough and place it on a pizza pan.
- Spread a generous layer of tomato sauce or pesto.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, followed by tomato slices, olives, onions, and spinach.
- Top it off with feta cheese crumbles.
Cooking Tips:
- Brush the crust with olive oil for a crispy texture.
- Add a pinch of sea salt and dried herbs before baking.
Cooking time is about 10-15 minutes. Drizzle a little more olive oil on top after baking. This pizza is perfect for a light and delicious meal.
13. Breakfast Pizza
Breakfast pizza is one of my favorite morning treats. It’s fun and easy to make.
First, preheat your oven to 400°F. Use a store-bought pizza crust to save time. Unroll the crust into a baking pan, stretch it out, and press it to the edges.
Next, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Scramble them in a skillet until they are just set.
I love adding toppings like sausage, bacon, and vegetables to my breakfast pizza. Spread the scrambled eggs over the crust, then add your favorite toppings. A sprinkle of cheese on top is a must for me.
Bake the pizza until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. This usually takes about 15 to 18 minutes.
Here’s a simple list for toppings:
- Sausage
- Bacon
- Cheese
- Vegetables
Enjoy your homemade breakfast pizza hot from the oven. It’s a delicious way to start the day! For detailed steps, check out this easy breakfast pizza recipe.
14. Shrimp Scampi Pizza
Shrimp Scampi Pizza is a delicious twist on a classic favorite. I love the combination of tender shrimp and garlic butter sauce on a crispy crust. To make it, you’ll need some key ingredients and a few simple steps.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, shelled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 6 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Pre-made or homemade pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F. You can use a pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet to get a crispy crust.
- Cook the shrimp by melting butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and stir until fragrant. Toss in the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque.
- Assemble the pizza by spreading the garlic butter sauce on the dough. Add the cooked shrimp, sprinkle with mozzarella, and a touch of red pepper flakes.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
For a step-by-step guide, check out Shrimp Scampi Pizza.
Enjoy making this at home, and delight in the fresh, gourmet taste!
15. Philly Cheesesteak Pizza
I love combining two favorites: pizza and Philly cheesesteak!
First, preheat your oven to 400°F. In a skillet, cook thin slices of beef sirloin until they are browned outside and a bit pink inside. Transfer them to a plate.
For the pizza base, spread white sauce over your crust. You can make white sauce by mixing garlic, salt, and pepper in a simmering saucepan.
Then, add your favorite toppings:
- Sautéed onions
- Bell peppers
- Mushrooms
- Provolone cheese
Tip: You can use either cooked or raw veggies, depending on your preference.
Assemble everything on the crust. Bake at 500°F for about 7-10 minutes, until the cheese melts and bubbles.
Enjoy your homemade Philly Cheesesteak Pizza that’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor!
For the original recipes, check out this detailed one from Taste of Home and a quick version from The Anthony Kitchen.
Benefits of Using a Pizza Oven
Using a pizza oven at home provides several benefits that enhance your cooking experience. From better flavors to a crispy crust, and even energy efficiency, a pizza oven offers numerous advantages.
1. Enhanced Flavor
A pizza oven can elevate the flavor of your food significantly. The high heat and even cooking surface allow ingredients to caramelize, unlocking deeper, richer tastes. When I cook in a pizza oven, I notice that meats get a beautiful char, while vegetables develop a smoky essence.
Examples of enhanced flavor:
- Meat: Gains a rich, intense flavor
- Vegetables: Smoky and sweet taste
- Pizza: Perfectly melted cheese with a golden crust
Another point is the use of wood-fired pizza ovens, which impart a unique, smoky flavor that’s hard to replicate with other cooking methods. Different types of wood, like oak or maple, can add subtle nuances to the food, making each dish unique.
2. Crispier Crust
One thing I love about pizza ovens is how they create a crispy crust. The intense heat, sometimes reaching up to 900°F (480°C), ensures that the pizza crust cooks quickly and evenly. This high temperature causes the outer layer to crisp while keeping the inside soft and chewy.
Key points for a perfect crust:
- High temperature: Cooks crust rapidly
- Even heat distribution: Prevents soggy spots
- Short cooking time: Less moisture escape, keeping the dough soft inside
Pizza ovens also excel in producing consistent textures. Whether you’re making bread or oven-baked dishes, the crust and outer layer won’t disappoint. I find this especially useful for achieving the perfect pizza that’s crispy on the edges and tender in the middle.
3. Energy Efficiency
Pizza ovens are also energy efficient. They reach high cooking temperatures quickly and maintain heat well, which means less fuel is needed compared to conventional ovens. My experience is that using a pizza oven saves time and energy, especially when cooking multiple dishes one after another.
Benefits of energy efficiency:
- Quick heating: Less preheating time
- Fuel savings: Uses less wood or gas
- Consistent heat: Retains heat for longer periods
For example:
Cooking Method | Time to Heat Up | Fuel Required |
---|---|---|
Conventional Oven | 15-20 minutes | More |
Wood-Fired Pizza Oven | 10-15 minutes | Less |
4. Essential Tools and Ingredients
When making pizza in a pizza oven, having the right tools and ingredients is crucial. They not only simplify the process but also ensure you achieve the best results. Here’s what you need to know.
Must-Have Tools
- Pizza Stone or Steel: This helps get a crispy crust. A pizza stone is great, but a pizza steel can be even better because it heats up faster and retains heat longer.
- Pizza Peel: A wooden pizza peel is perfect for sliding the pizza in and out of the oven. It’s light and easy to maneuver.
- Dough Scraper: Essential for dividing and managing your pizza dough without sticking. It helps in getting a good grip on the dough.
- Digital Scales: Measuring ingredients accurately is key. Digital scales ensure you get your dough and toppings just right.
- Proofing Container: These containers are necessary for letting the dough rise properly. They keep the dough fresh and prevent it from drying out.
5. Choosing the Right Ingredients
- Flour: Opt for high-gluten flour or 00 flour. They give the dough a chewy texture that’s perfect for pizza.
- Yeast: Fresh yeast or instant yeast works well. Ensure it’s fresh to get the best rise and flavor.
- Tomatoes: Use high-quality canned tomatoes like San Marzano. They have a rich flavor and good consistency for sauce.
- Cheese: Mozzarella is a go-to, but consider blends with provolone or fontina for added flavor.
- Toppings: Fresh vegetables, high-quality meats, and herbs like basil and oregano can elevate your pizza. Be sure to pre-cook any raw meats to ensure they are done when the pizza is.
Tips for Perfect Pizza Every Time
Getting the perfect pizza requires careful attention to the temperature of your oven, the preparation of your dough, and how you distribute your toppings. These steps will help ensure that your pizza comes out just right every time.
1. Preheating Your Oven
Preheating your pizza oven is crucial for achieving that perfect crust. Aim for a temperature between 700-900°F (370-480°C). Use an infrared thermometer to measure the baking temperature accurately.
This way, you ensure that the oven is hot enough to cook the pizza quickly and evenly. Also, make sure the pizza stone is thoroughly heated.
If you’re using wood, pick seasoned hardwoods like oak, maple, beech, birch, or walnut. These woods are efficient heat producers and impart a nice smoky flavor to your pizza.
It’s a good habit to preheat the oven for at least 30 minutes. This ensures that the heat is evenly distributed and that the stone or surface is ready to give your pizza that crispy base.
2. Dough Preparation
The dough is the foundation of a great pizza. Start with the right ingredients: yeast, warm water, olive oil, flour, and salt. Mix these to create a smooth and elastic dough. Allow the dough to rise properly. This usually takes about an hour, depending on the warmth of your kitchen.
Kneading the dough well is important. This helps develop the gluten, which gives the crust its chewiness. After it has risen, divide the dough and shape it into 12-inch discs. This size is manageable and cooks evenly.
Let the shaped dough rest for a few minutes before adding your toppings. This resting period allows the dough to relax, making it easier to stretch without tearing.
3. Topping Distribution
A well-cooked pizza needs an even distribution of toppings. Start with a thin layer of sauce, spreading it evenly but not too close to the edges. This prevents the sauce from spilling over and burning.
When adding cheese and other toppings, ensure they are spread out equally. Avoid overloading the pizza, as too many toppings can make it soggy and unevenly cooked.
Place delicate ingredients like fresh basil under the sauce to protect them from the oven’s intense heat. The use of ‘nduja can add a spicy twist while maintaining its texture.
Jesmin Bithi, the co-founder of FoodBears.com, is a culinary maestro who brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the platform. Jesmin’s journey in the food world started in her home kitchen, experimenting with different recipes and flavors. Her passion for cooking soon transcended the boundaries of her kitchen, leading her to become a professional chef.