Dreaming of crispy, wood-fired pizzas in your backyard? An outdoor pizza oven is a versatile addition to your kitchen, perfect for pizzas, roasted veggies, and artisan breads. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know—how to choose between wood-fired, gas, or multi-fuel ovens, installation tips, maintenance advice, and the best recipes to try. Get ready to transform your patio into a gourmet pizzeria with an outdoor oven and elevate your outdoor cooking game! Whether you go for wood-fired or multi-fuel, the right outdoor oven can take your cooking to the next level.
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Shop Pizza Ovens Near MeWhat You Need to Install an Outdoor Pizza Oven
Installing an outdoor pizza oven requires preparation, the right tools, and a good understanding of your space. Whether you’re looking to create restaurant-quality pizzas or elevate backyard cooking, here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Space and Setup Tips for Your Pizza Oven
Setting up an outdoor oven takes some planning to balance functionality and enjoyment. Start by assessing your outdoor space. Outdoor ovens range from compact countertop models for small patios to larger built-in designs for outdoor kitchens. Choose a spot near your dining area and consider wind, safety, and ventilation to prevent smoke buildup around your outdoor oven.
Key Setup Tips:
✓ Place the oven on a flat, sturdy surface that supports its weight.
✓ Freestanding ovens may need a cart or stand.
✓ Built-in models require a heat-resistant base, like concrete or brick.
✓ Keep 3-5 feet of space between the oven and flammable materials like fences or furniture.
As far as placement, position gas or propane ovens close to a fuel line or tank, and store wood nearby for wood-fired ovens. Placing the oven near your grill or smoker helps streamline outdoor cooking. It’s a great way to create a functional outdoor kitchen with pizza oven features.
Additional Suggestions:
- Add a prep station for chopping toppings, rolling dough, and assembling pizzas.
- Use matching materials for a cohesive outdoor kitchen design.
Protecting Your Pizza Oven
Proper maintenance will keep your outdoor pizza oven in great condition for years. Use a sturdy cover to protect it from rain, snow, and sun. For extra durability, place the oven in a sheltered area, especially in harsh weather.
Protection Tips:
- Use a pergola or awning for shade and ventilation.
- Built-in ovens need heat-resistant materials—follow manufacturer instructions and consult professionals when needed.
How to Install an Outdoor Oven
Once you’ve chosen your outdoor pizza oven and prepared your outdoor space, it’s time to install it. The process varies based on whether you have a built-in, freestanding, or countertop model. Here’s a step-by-step guide for freestanding ovens.
Installing a Freestanding Outdoor Pizza Oven
Freestanding ovens are versatile, usually coming with a cart or stand. This makes them portable and the easiest of oven types to install. Here’s how to set it up:
- Unbox the oven and check all parts for damage or missing pieces. Look carefully through the packaging for small components.
- Assemble the base using the provided screws or bolts. Follow the instructions, making sure everything is tight and stable. A solid base ensures safe, even cooking.
- Mount the oven onto the base or cart. You may need help for this step, as ovens can be heavy and hard to lift solo. Proper placement reduces the risk of accidents.
- Connect fuel lines if it’s a gas oven. Test for leaks with soapy water. For wood or charcoal ovens, prepare the firebox.
- Place the oven in your preferred spot. Ensure there’s enough clearance for ventilation and safety. Use a flat, stable surface to prevent wobbling.
Pro Tip:
Avoid placing ovens on uneven ground, as an unstable base can affect cooking and create safety risks. Always double-check stability before use.
Installing a Countertop Pizza Oven
Compact and stylish, countertop pizza ovens are perfect for small spaces or outdoor setups with existing surfaces. They fit well on sturdy countertops and add a modern touch to your outdoor kitchen with pizza oven features. Here’s how to set it up:
- Clear and clean your countertop before installation. Use a heat-resistant surface like granite, concrete, or stainless steel to handle high temperatures.
- Position the oven on the countertop, leaving enough space around the back and sides for ventilation. This is especially important for gas or wood-burning ovens to prevent overheating.
- Secure the oven, especially if it’s heavy or in a windy area. Many ovens include clamps, rubber feet, or mounting brackets to keep them stable during use.
- For gas ovens, attach the fuel source safely, like a propane tank or gas line. Check all connections and test for leaks with soapy water. Wipe away any soap before lighting the oven.
Pro Tip:
Measure your countertop to ensure the oven fits comfortably. Leave enough space to work around it without overcrowding your cooking area.
Installing a Built-In Pizza Oven
Built-in pizza ovens are a high-end addition to custom outdoor kitchens, seamlessly integrating into your space and adding sophistication to your patio. Installation is more labor-intensive and may require professional help if you’re building into an existing counter or structure. Here’s the basic process:
- Build a sturdy foundation using bricks, concrete blocks, or heat-resistant stones. The foundation must be strong enough to support the oven's weight without shifting. Ensure it’s level and solid.
- Lay a fireproof base layer such as concrete slabs or refractory bricks. This protects the structure from the high heat your oven will generate.
- Carefully position the oven onto the base layer, ensuring it’s level and aligned. Use high-temperature mortar or adhesive to secure it in place.
- Add finishing touches like stone, tile, or brick cladding. These not only enhance the look but also add insulation and protection.
Pro Tip:
Built-in ovens are a long-term investment, so take your time planning the design and layout. Hiring a professional can ensure proper and safe installation.
For those seeking the best outdoor pizza ovens, it’s important to consider your space, usage, and desired features. Whether you’re setting up a pizza oven for outdoor grill pairings or searching for the best rated pizza oven, preparation, care, and the right tools will help maximize your experience.
Types of Outdoor Ovens to Install
With your installation space ready, let's discuss the different types of outdoor pizza ovens. From traditional wood-fired models to versatile multi-fuel options, each brings unique benefits.
Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Ovens
There’s something magical about outdoor wood fired pizza oven cooking. The crackling fire, smoky aroma, and rustic charm create an unbeatable dining experience. These ovens use wood as their sole heat source, producing high temperatures that cook pizzas in minutes. They deliver perfectly crisp, golden crusts and add a unique flavor modern ovens can’t match.
➥Featured Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven: XO 28" Stainless Steel Wood Fired Pizza Oven
Shop this XO Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven
Perfect for elevating your outdoor cooking and made with premium stainless steel, this pizza oven is built to last and withstand the elements. Its high arch chamber design ensures even heat distribution, while the authentic firebrick cooking surface delivers that artisanal, crispy crust pizza lovers crave. Though it requires manual wood loading and fire maintenance, the experience of cooking with real flames is incredibly rewarding for wood fired pizza oven outdoor enthusiasts.
Gas-Fired Outdoor Pizza Ovens
For efficiency and ease, outdoor pizza ovens with propane and gas options are a perfect choice. Just light them, set the temperature, and start cooking—no need to manage wood or clean ash. They’re perfect for busy lifestyles while still delivering great results.
➥Featured Gas-Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven: XO 29" Stainless Steel Pizza Oven
Shop this XO Gas Outdoor Pizza Oven
This XO pizza oven perfectly combines convenience and performance. Its sleek stainless-steel design looks great outdoors, while it heats quickly to high temperatures for consistent, restaurant-quality pizzas. A built-in thermometer ensures precise temperature control, making pizza-making quick and easy whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet dinner.
Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Ovens
Why stick to one fuel source when you can have the flexibility of three? Multi-fuel pizza ovens let you cook with wood, gas, or charcoal, depending on your mood, dish, or desired flavor. Their versatility makes them a top choice for outdoor chefs who love experimenting with different cooking styles.
➥Featured Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven: Coyote® 30" Matte Black Hybrid Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven
Shop Coyote Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven
This pizza oven offers unmatched versatility. Whether you want the smoky taste of wood-fired pizza, the convenience of gas, or the unique flavor of charcoal, this outdoor propane oven delivers. Its premium insulation ensures consistent cooking, and the easy-to-clean interior makes cleanup quick. Perfect for families or groups with varying tastes, it creates the ideal pizza experience for everyone.
Freestanding Outdoor Pizza Ovens
Freestanding outdoor pizza ovens offer portability and power, letting you move them wherever you need. These standalone ovens often come pre-assembled on sturdy carts, making them easy to transport and use in different outdoor spaces. They’re perfect for those who want a high-performance oven without permanent installation.
➥Featured Freestanding Outdoor Pizza Oven: Lynx® 30" Napoli Outdoor Oven™ On Stainless Steel Mobile Kitchen Cart
Shop this Lynx® Outdoor Pizza Oven Cart
This option brings style and function to every backyard. Mounted on a durable mobile kitchen cart, it’s easy to move wherever you need it. The cart includes storage for fuel and accessories, keeping essentials close. The oven heats efficiently, delivering perfect pizzas every time. Whether hosting a backyard party or cooking anywhere outdoors, this oven is a great choice for adventurous chefs.
Countertop Outdoor Pizza Ovens
Short on space? Countertop pizza ovens are a smart solution. These compact ovens fit seamlessly into your outdoor kitchen and deliver the high heat needed for perfect pizzas.
➥Featured Countertop Outdoor Pizza Oven: Lynx® 30" Stainless Steel Napoli Outdoor Oven™
Shop this Lynx® Outdoor Countertop Pizza Oven
Countertop ovens like this one are ideal for smaller outdoor spaces. Its sleek design fits neatly on countertops, saving floor space while delivering top-notch performance. The advanced heating system ensures consistent cooking temperatures, perfect for crafting delicious pizzas. Simple, efficient, and stylish, it’s perfect for pizza lovers seeking convenience and quality.
Installing an outdoor pizza oven transforms your outdoor entertaining setup into a pizza-making haven. With the right oven, tools, and preparation, you can enjoy years of mouthwatering pizzas.
Choose the oven that suits your needs. Stick with the authenticity of a wood fire pizza oven, enjoy the flexibility of a multi-fuel pizza oven, or even a built-in pizza oven. Either way, your outdoor cooking experience will create lasting memories. All that’s left is to choose where your dream outdoor pizzeria will take shape!
Outdoor Pizza Oven FAQ
Using an outdoor pizza oven is simpler than it seems. First, preheat the oven for about 15–30 minutes depending on the model and fuel source. Then slide your pizza onto a hot stone or cooking surface using a pizza peel. At Gerhard’s Appliance, we can help you choose a model with intuitive controls and even heating for consistently perfect results.
Outdoor pizza ovens work by creating high, concentrated heat that radiates from all sides to cook pizzas evenly in a matter of minutes. Whether wood-fired, gas, or hybrid, these ovens trap heat in a dome-shaped interior that mimics traditional brick ovens. At Gerhard’s, we carry top outdoor pizza ovens that deliver restaurant-quality performance right in your backyard.
Most outdoor pizza ovens can cook a pizza in just 2 to 5 minutes, depending on the temperature and thickness of your dough. Higher-end models we carry at Gerhard’s can reach temperatures over 700°F, delivering that perfect crispy crust in no time. Just be sure to rotate your pizza for even cooking.
If you’re in the Greater Philadelphia area, visit one of our Gerhard’s Appliance showrooms to explore our selection of premium outdoor pizza ovens. We carry trusted brands and offer expert guidance to help you find the right model for your outdoor kitchen.
Why Trust Gerhard’s Appliances
Gerhard's Appliances stands as the appliance store of choice in the greater Philadelphia area, boasting an extensive array of home appliances, stunning showrooms, BBB accreditation, Price Match Guarantee, and a steadfast dedication to customer satisfaction.
With over 75 years of being family-owned and operated, Gerhard's Appliances has built a solid reputation as a reliable and trustworthy appliance retailer. Our long-standing presence in the industry demonstrates our commitment to providing excellent products and customer service. Gerhard's Appliances offers a wide range of appliances including refrigerators, dishwashers, as well as cooking, outdoor, and laundry appliances. Whether customers are looking to upgrade their kitchen with a high-performance range or simply need a reliable washing machine, Gerhard's has over 80 top-quality brands to choose from. Shop with us today!
Shop Pizza Ovens at Gerhard’s
Discover a world of premium appliances and exceptional service at Gerhard's Appliances today! Visit our showrooms in Pennsylvania to explore the latest innovations from top brands. For nearly eight decades, our family-owned business has been unwaveringly committed to delivering top-notch appliances and exceptional service. Our friendly team of appliance professionals are always on hand to help you find an outdoor pizza oven. Start your journey now by exploring our online catalog or calling our friendly team at 215-268-3779.
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