Baking Pizza Perfection
As any pizza lover knows, there’s nothing quite like biting into a slice of freshly baked, piping hot pizza with that irresistible crispy crust and gooey cheese. And while delivery is convenient, nothing compares to the taste of homemade pizza hot from your own oven.
If you’re ready to achieve pizza nirvana in your own backyard, a Blackstone pizza oven is just what you need. Blackstone offers several sizes and models of outdoor pizza ovens that allow you to easily bake authentic wood-fired pizza and other dishes right at home.
In this guide, we’ll explore the impressive features of Blackstone pizza ovens and how to choose the right model for your needs. You’ll learn proper techniques for cooking mouthwatering pizzas and other foods. We’ll also share tips for operation, maintenance and troubleshooting so you can get the most out of your Blackstone oven.
So get ready to become the neighborhood pizzeria with your own Blackstone pizza oven!
Overview of Blackstone Pizza Ovens
A Blackstone pizza oven utilizes convection, conduction, and infrared heat to rapidly bake pizzas and other foods at temperatures up to 900°F. The combination of direct bottom heat and circulated hot air ensures your crust crisps and cheeses melt to absolute perfection.
These outdoor ovens are crafted from heavy-duty stainless steel to withstand outdoor elements. Double-walled construction retains heat exceptionally well. And a vented chimney releases smoke, steam and excess heat.
Several design elements optimize them for baking pizza:
- Cordierite pizza stone – The baking surface absorbs moisture for crispy crusts.
- Patented two-stone technology – Direct contact with lower stone cooks bottom while upper stone radiates heat.
- Rotating pizza turntable – Ensures even doneness without manual turning.
- Front-opening door – Check on pizzas and insert/remove easily.
- Built-in thermometer – Allows monitoring of internal temp.
Blackstone pizza ovens can reach cooking temps in as little as 10 minutes. You can bake a 16-inch pizza in around 2 minutes!
Top 3 Blackstone Pizza Oven Models
Blackstone offers pizza ovens in both portable tabletop models and larger freestanding units. Let’s look at their 3 most popular options:
1. Blackstone Portable Tabletop Pizza Oven
Key Features:
- 390 sq. in. cooking surface
- Portable tabletop design
- 15″ pizza capacity
- Patented two-stone technology
- Built-in thermometer (up to 700°F)
- Foldable legs and latching door
This compact Blackstone pizza oven is perfect for cooking on counters and tables. The proprietary two-stone design ensures efficient, even baking. The built-in thermometer and adjustable burner let you dial in the ideal temperature. When cool, it folds down for easy transporting and storage.
2. Blackstone Outdoor Pizza Oven
Key Features:
- 470 sq. in. cooking surface
- Freestanding portable design
- 16″ pizza capacity
- Patented two-stone technology
- Built-in thermometer (up to 900°F)
- Detachable oven cabinet with swivel wheels
- Side shelves for prep space
This freestanding Blackstone pizza oven on locking wheels provides ample cooking space for 16-inch pizzas. Remove the oven cabinet for use on counters. Side shelves offer room for ingredients and tools. The two-stone technology and chimney deliver rapid, even baking. It’s the centerpiece of any outdoor kitchen.
3. Blackstone Leggero Tabletop Pizza Oven
Key Features:
- 200 sq. in. cooking surface
- Portable tabletop design
- 13″ pizza capacity
- Patented rotating cordierite pizza stone
- Built-in thermometer (up to 700°F)
- Removable legs with adjustable height
The Leggero tabletop oven features a patented rotating pizza stone for even baking without manual turning. The built-in thermometer and adjustable burner give you precision temperature control. The height-adjustable legs and compact size make it perfect for use on counters and tables both indoors and out.
How to Choose the Right Blackstone Pizza Oven
With several Blackstone pizza oven options, how do you determine which model best fits your needs? Here are some factors to consider:
- Cooking capacity – Size correlates to pizza diameter. Tabletop models hold 13″-15″ pizzas. Freestanding ovens accommodate 16″ pizzas.
- Portability – Tabletop ovens move easily. Freestanding models are portable but bulkier.
- Placement – Tabletop units sit on counters. Freestanding ovens require ground placement.
- Temperature range – Maximum temps vary between 700°F-900°F depending on the model.
- Controls – All feature a built-in thermometer. Burner dials precisely adjust temperature.
- Setup time – Tabletop models heat fastest. Freestanding ovens take a bit longer.
- Budget – Tabletop ovens cost less. Expect to pay more for a freestanding unit.
- Cooking variety – Freestanding ovens have more space for meats, veggies, etc. beyond just pizza.
Think about portability needs, placement, cooking capacity and budget. This will steer you towards the best Blackstone model to match your requirements and expectations.
Tips for Cooking Pizza in a Blackstone Oven
Once you’ve selected the ideal Blackstone pizza oven for your needs, it’s time to start baking! Here are some tips and techniques for cooking mouthwatering pizza:
- Use a pizza peel – A wood peel makes it easy to slide pizzas in and out of the oven. Foldable stainless models are convenient options.
- Work quickly – Toppings fall off quickly once a peeled pizza hits the hot stone. Work fast!
- Rotate periodically – Use oven rotation features or manually turn for even cooking.
- Monitor temp – Check built-in thermometer and adjust burner accordingly.
- Don’t overtop – Excess toppings weigh down the pie and make crust soggy.
- Brush crusts – Lightly oiling edges helps crisp and brown them.
- Prebake crusts – Partially bake dough first for a crispy yet chewy crust.
- Mind the edges – Pizzas cook faster towards the rear near the flame. Rotate accordingly.
- Embrace imperfection – Handmade pies with irregular shapes and bubbles taste just as great!
It takes practice to master pizza making. But your Blackstone pizza oven will reward you with incredible homemade pizzas everyone will love.
Delicious Foods Beyond Pizza to Make in a Blackstone Oven
While pizza may be the star, a Blackstone pizza oven can handle far more than just an occasional pie. Take advantage of the high heat and rapid preheating to cook all kinds of delicious foods:
- Calzones – Fill a folded pizza crust pocket with cheese, meats and veggies.
- Stromboli – Roll up pizza dough with fillings for hearty handheld meals.
- Quesadillas – Quickly melt cheese between crispy tortillas.
- Charcuterie – Cold smoked meats are easy appetizers.
- Flatbreads – Unleashed your inner baker with naan, pita and more.
- Paninis – Crisp up your favorite hot sandwiches in minutes.
- Bruschetta – Toast bread slices and top with garden tomatoes and olive oil.
- Seafood – Shrimp, scallops and salmon shine under high heat.
- Steaks – Get restaurant-quality sear marks on thick cuts.
- Poultry – Roast a whole chicken or quick kebabs.
With the right recipes, you can cook amazing meals beyond pizza in your Blackstone oven that will wow your family and guests.
Maintaining Your Blackstone Pizza Oven
While stainless steel Blackstone pizza ovens are built to last, you’ll want to take steps to maintain your oven and extend its life:
- Control temperature – Avoid maxing out the burners for prolonged periods to prevent damage.
- Clean stone – Use a brush or dry cloth to remove debris on stones after each use.
- Remove ash – Empty ashes from the firebox before they build up excessively.
- Wipe surfaces – Clean stainless surfaces with warm water and cloth to prevent residue.
- Check fittings – Ensure propane fittings are tight. Soapy water tests for leaks.
- Inspect burners – Clear any blockages in orifices and venturis.
- Cover when stored – Use a cover to protect the oven from weather and pests.
- Check wear items – Replace damaged power cords, gas hoses, igniters, etc.
Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep your Blackstone pizza oven looking and working like new for many years to come. Be sure to check the owner’s manual for model-specific guidance.
Tips for Achieving Pizza Perfection
Baking the perfect pizza may seem intimidating, but a few simple tips will have you dishing up incredible pies in no time:
- Start with great dough – Use a high-quality pre-made dough, or make your own for full control.
- Proof the dough – Letting dough slowly ferment develops flavor and better textures.
- Stretch the dough – Hand stretch or roll dough on a floured surface to prevent tearing.
- Top creatively – Feature classic combos or get adventurous with global toppings.
- Grate your own cheese – Fresh mozzarella or blends make a huge difference.
- Spice it up – Finish pies with red pepper flakes, oregano and olive oil.
- Think outside circles – Get creative with rectangle, square or oval shaped crusts.
- Make mini pies – Individual 3-4″ pizzas cook fast and offer more customization.
- Embrace imperfection – Unique shapes and styles reflect the artisanal look.
Keep experimenting and tuning your methods. Your skills will grow with each pizza you bake in your Blackstone oven.
Incredible Pizza Topping Combinations to Try
Obviously a plain cheese pizza satisfies, but why stop there when you have a Blackstone pizza oven ready to bake up delicious creations!
If you need some inspiration for new and exciting topping combos, consider these mouthwatering possibilities:
- Margherita – Fresh mozzarella, basil, tomatoes (the classic)
- Pepperoni – No need to explain this traditional all-time fave
- Hawaiian – Savory Canadian bacon and sweet pineapple chunks
- Supreme – All the meats and veggies – pepperoni, sausage, onions, peppers, mushrooms!
- Mediterranean – Artichokes, tomatoes, kalamata olives, feta, spinach
- Breakfast – Eggs, cheese, bacon, sausage, potatoes (perfect morning pizza!)
- BBQ chicken – Grilled chicken, red onion, cilantro, bbq sauce
- Buffalo chicken – Shredded chicken in hot sauce, blue cheese crumbles, mozzarella
- Greek – Spinach, tomatoes, red onion, black olives, feta cheese
- Pesto – Basil pesto base, roasted red peppers, sausage, goat cheese
The options for creative toppings are endless! Make the most of your Blackstone pizza oven to take your pies to the next level.
Useful Blackstone Pizza Oven Accessories
Certain accessories can make using your Blackstone pizza oven even easier and more convenient:
- Pizza peel – The ideal tool for sliding pizzas in and out of the oven.
- Infrared thermometer – Allows monitoring stone temp and oven hot spots.
- Insulated gloves – Protect hands from high heat when handling food.
- Pizza cutter – Roller cutter easily slices pies into perfect portions.
- Prep tables – Folding side tables offer space for assembling pizzas.
- Propane tank mount – Securely attaches propane cylinder to oven cabinet.
- Weather protection – Durable covers shield oven when not in use.
- Utensil set – Quality pizza server, tongs, spatula and knife useful to have.
- Serving dish – Wooden pizza boards nicely display pies fresh from the oven.
- Lighting – LED mini lights illuminate cooking area for nighttime use.
Check the full selection of compatible Blackstone pizza oven accessories available on Amazon to take your experience to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blackstone Pizza Ovens
If you’re considering a Blackstone pizza oven, you likely have some questions. Here we answer some of the most commonly asked:
How hot do Blackstone pizza ovens get?
Blackstone ovens reach 700°F to 900°F, the ideal range for baking authentic wood-fired pizza. The temperature is adjustable based on your needs.
How fast can I bake a pizza?
At top temp, you can bake a fully loaded 16-inch pizza in around 2 minutes in a Blackstone!
What fuel do they use?
Blackstone pizza ovens run on propane. Some can also run on natural gas with conversion kits.
Is a Blackstone oven portable?
Tabletop models are highly portable. Freestanding ovens move on locking casters but are bulkier.
What thickness stone should I get?
Blackstone pizza stones are typically 0.5-1 inch thick. Thicker stones hold more heat and cook more evenly.
What accessories do I need?
At minimum, an infrared thermometer and pizza peel. Optional but useful extras include prep tables, propane tank mounts and weather covers.
Does it require special ventilation?
Proper ventilation is recommended, but not required unless placing oven in an enclosed area.
How often will I need to replace parts?
With proper care and maintenance, a Blackstone oven should provide years of service before parts require replacing.
What temperature for cooking chicken wings?
Cook wings around 400-450°F. They may require more time at lower temps. Flip periodically for even cooking.
Discover Endless Possibilities with a Blackstone Pizza Oven
A Blackstone pizza oven unlocks a whole new world of opportunity to create incredible homemade pizzas that look and taste better than delivery or restaurant pies. With their advanced heating technology, specially designed cooking chambers, and rapid preheat times, Blackstone ovens help you bake artisan-quality pizza just how pizzeria chefs do it.
But they can handle far more than just pizza. Unleash your full culinary potential using your Blackstone oven to cook steaks, seafood, roast vegetables, charcuterie, sandwiches, flatbreads and anything else you can image to perfection.
Bring family and friends together for unforgettable backyard pizza parties. Impress guests with gourmet pizzas at your next event. Or enjoy restaurant caliber pizza in the comfort of your own home any night of the week.
The possibilities are endless with the magic of a Blackstone pizza oven. So fire up your flavor creativity and get ready to experience homemade pizza nirvana!
