Pizza Oven Myths Debunked

Portable and tabletop pizza ovens have become increasingly popular in recent years, and that trend shows no sign of slowing down as people look to replicate high-quality, restaurant-style pizzas at home. Brands like Ooni, Gozney, Igneus, and Clementi have transformed outdoor cooking, allowing anyone to make perfect pizzas in their own back gardens. However, several ‘Pizza Oven Myths’ can often cause confusion for first-timers and pizza aficionados alike. In this blog, we’ll debunk some of the most common misconceptions to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a pizza oven.

Myth #1: You Can Only Cook Pizza in a Pizza Oven

One of the most common myths is that a pizza oven is only good for making pizza. While the name suggests a single-use purpose, these versatile ovens can actually be used to cook a wide range of dishes. From delicious bread, casseroles, and pasta such as lasagne to roasted meats and grilled vegetables, your pizza oven can handle it all. Many portable models, such as the range of Ooni pizza ovens, Gozney Roccbox, and the soon-to-be-launched Gozney Tread, offer enough heat to prepare a variety of dishes with ease, making them a valuable addition to your outdoor cooking setup.

Myth #2: Pizza Ovens Are Too Complicated for Beginners

Another myth is that pizza ovens are difficult to use, particularly for beginners who might feel intimidated by the idea of cooking with a wood- or gas-powered oven at such high heat and an open flame. While it’s true that traditional wood-fired ovens can be tricky to master, many modern portable pizza ovens are designed with ease of use in mind. Brands like Ooni, Gozney, Igneus, and Clementi have made their ovens user-friendly, with simple controls, quick heating times, and easy-to-follow instructions. Whether you’re cooking your first pizza or your 1,000th, these ovens are designed to deliver great results without complex techniques.

Myth #3: You Need to Use Wood for a True Wood-Fired Pizza Experience

The idea that wood is essential for an authentic pizza oven experience is another myth that needs debunking. While traditional wood-burning ovens do impart a unique smoky flavour to the pizza, modern pizza ovens offer gas and dual-fuel options that provide similar results with greater convenience. Gas-powered ovens allow for precise temperature control, making them easier to use for beginners and those who want a faster cooking time. While wood does offer a distinct flavour, gas-powered pizza ovens are ideal for those who prefer the convenience of quick setup and consistent results.

Myth #4: Pizza Ovens Only Work for Neapolitan-Style Pizzas

A popular misconception is that pizza ovens are only suitable for cooking traditional Neapolitan pizzas, which require very high temperatures and a thin crust. While Neapolitan pizzas are a favourite in wood-fired cooking, portable pizza ovens are incredibly versatile. With adjustable temperature controls, you can easily cook deep-dish pizzas, calzones, panuzzos, and even dessert pizzas. The even heat distribution in modern pizza ovens ensures a crisp crust and well-cooked toppings or fillings, regardless of the type of pizza. Whether you enjoy a thick crust or a lighter, crispier base, modern pizza ovens offer flexibility for a variety of styles.

Myth #5: Pizza Ovens Take Too Long to Heat Up

Many people believe that pizza ovens take too long to heat up and require too much preparation time. This myth couldn’t be further from the truth. High-quality pizza ovens, with their superior insulating properties, can reach temperatures of up to 500°C in as little as 15–20 minutes, depending on the model and fuel type. This quick heat-up time allows you to start cooking faster, meaning less waiting around and more time enjoying delicious homemade pizza. Whether using wood or gas, modern portable or tabletop pizza ovens are engineered for efficiency, so you can get cooking quickly.

Myth #6: Pizza Ovens Are Too Expensive for Casual Home Use

Finally, there is a myth that pizza ovens are too expensive for casual home use. While it’s true that there are high-end models on the market, such as the Gozney Dome, there are also budget-friendly options that deliver excellent results. In fact, every brand we stock here at The Pizza Oven Shop has an option within their range that would be considered ‘budget-friendly,’ while still maintaining impressive performance and a variety of features such as built-in thermometers. These ovens allow you to achieve professional-grade results without breaking the bank, making them a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy homemade pizza without a hefty investment.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, several myths surrounding pizza ovens can make it difficult to decide which model is best for you. Whether you’re looking to buy your first pizza oven or upgrade to a bigger, more advanced model, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. Portable pizza ovens are versatile, beginner-friendly, and offer excellent value for money. With the right choice, you can enjoy a wide range of delicious dishes, all while benefiting from the convenience and performance these ovens provide.

So, if you’re considering investing in a pizza oven, you can finally put these myths to bed once and for all! Of course, as always, if you’d like any advice from our expert team, they are on hand to help you every step of the way. You can get in touch on 01423 608648 or email your question to sales@thepizzaovenshop.com.