Hosting the Perfect Euro 2024 Pizza Party

Set Up Your Pizza Station

Your pizza oven is the star of the show, so make sure it’s clean and ready to preheat before your guest arrive. You really don’t want to be clearing out ash from the previous cook just as England score a screamer from outside the box.

Create a dedicated pizza-making station with all the essentials: pizza peels, a thermometer, and a selection of toppings. Having everything organised and within reach makes the process smooth and enjoyable for everyone. We think it’s a nice idea to get your guests involved with topping their own pizzas, so anything you can do to make the process as seamless as possible can only be a good thing!

Choose Your Dough and Toppings

Opt for a variety of dough options to cater to different preferences. Store-bought dough balls can be a lifesaver when hosting a large crowd, but homemade dough can add a personal touch. Make sure to have enough dough for everyone, plus a few extra in case of mishaps.

As for toppings, offer a mix of classics like Margherita and Pepperoni, along with some more adventurous options like prosciutto and nduja, blue cheese and caramelised onions. Don’t forget vegetarian choices and perhaps even some dessert pizzas to offer up a sweet option if the football result leaves a bitter taste in the mouth!

Match Day Decor and Atmosphere

Transform your outside space into a football fan’s paradise. Decorate with team flags, banners, and football-themed tableware. Arrange seating so everyone has a good view of the TV and can easily access the pizza station.

Play some lively music before the match starts to build excitement. You can’t go wrong with the classic Three Lions anthem by David Baddiel, Frank Skinner, and The Lightning Seeds. Of course, when the match starts, switch to the commentary to keep the energy high.

Perfect Timing

Timing is crucial for a smooth pizza party. Whether you have a gas or wood-fired oven, start preheating halfway through the first half of the match so it reaches the ideal cooking temperature in time for halftime. This way, you can serve fresh, hot pizzas during the break, keeping the momentum going. Most pizza ovens take around 15 to 20 minutes to preheat, and once hot, they can cook a pizza in as little as 60 seconds.

Complementary Snacks and Drinks

Besides pizza, offer a variety of snacks like garlic bread, baked cheese fondue, and dips such as hummus or guacamole. These not only complement the pizza but also keep guests satisfied throughout while they wait for the main event.

For drinks, have a selection of beers, wines, and non-alcoholic options. Consider setting up a self-serve bar where guests can mix their own cocktails or mocktails. This also makes less work for you! Win Win!