Pizza Stone vs Pizza Oven | Which One Reigns Supreme?

Hey there Grillionaires!

Are you struggling to decide between a backyard pizza oven and a pizza stone for your homemade pies? Did you get a new pizza accessory for Christmas and wondering what to do with it? Look no further, because I've tried them both and I'm here to share all the pros and cons with you.

Back Yard Pizza Oven

(Courtesy of: Ooni)

First, let's talk about the backyard pizza oven. These bad boys can get super hot, up to 900º F, which means your pizzas will cook in no time - usually around ninety seconds to two minutes. That crispy crust we all crave? You bet you'll get it with a pizza oven. Plus, they add a certain je ne sais quoi to your backyard setup. It's like having your own little slice of Italy right in your own backyard!

But how do you use a pizza oven? It's actually pretty simple. First, preheat the oven to its maximum temperature (usually around 900 degrees Fahrenheit). Then, place your pizza directly on the oven floor or on a pizza peel and carefully slide it onto the floor of the oven. Cook for ninety seconds to two minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Now, there are drawbacks of a backyard pizza oven. For one, they can be on the pricier side. If you're not looking to drop a couple grand to a few hundred on a new appliance, a pizza stone might be the way to go. Another thing to consider is the space requirement. Pizza ovens are not exactly small, so make sure you have grill-estate to set it up.

On the other hand, let's talk about the trusty pizza stone.

Pizza Stone

These handy kitchen tools are much more affordable and can easily be stored in a cabinet or on a shelf. Plus, you can use them for so much more than just pizzas - try baking bread or roasting vegetables on them for added crispiness.

BUT how do you use a pizza stone? First, preheat your oven or grill to the highest temperature it will go (usually around five hundred to seven hundred degrees Fahrenheit). Place the stone on a rack while the grill or oven preheats so it can get nice and hot. When you're ready to bake, lightly dust the stone with cornmeal or flour to hasily. Then, carefully transfer your pizza onto the stone using a pizza peel or large spatula. Bake for eight to twelve minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

(Courtest of: Emile Henry)

Now, there are also drawbacks to a pizza stone. As I mentioned earlier, it might not get as hot as a pizza oven, so your cooking time might be a bit longer. And if you're someone who really values that ultra-crispy crust, you might be disappointed. BUT with a little patience and the right technique, you can still achieve a delicious crust on a pizza stone.

So, which one is the winner?

Like I said, it really depends on your personal preference and situation. If you have the space and budget, a backyard pizza oven could be a fun addition to your grilling deck. But if you're looking for something more low-key and budget-friendly, a pizza stone is a great option.

So the waged war continues, but it really depends on what YOU want to do! However, I'm not going to leave you hanging! I am going to post my pizza dough recipe, handed down from my great grandparents, to my grandparents, to my parents, to me! This is a TRUE, AUTHENTIC Sicilian pizza dough recipe.

Now, let's talk about that all-important element of a great pizza - the dough. Here's a recipe for a simple and delicious homemade pizza dough that's sure to impress your friends and family:

 

Authentic Sicilian Pizza Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy.

  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and olive oil. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.

  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

  5. Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a thin rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.

  6. Preheat your oven or grill to its highest temperature (around 550º Fahrenheit). Place the pizza dough on a lightly floured pizza peel or large spatula. Add your desired toppings and carefully transfer the pizza to a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.

  7. Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

  8. Enjoy your delicious, authentic Sicilian pizza!

No matter which one you choose, make sure you eat well, do well, and serve good food.

P.S. And don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel and follow me on all social media platforms (IG, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn). Just search under @grillmarkco. And while you're at it, check out our new "well marbled" sweatshirts and hoodies in the "smoke wear" apparel shop on the website.

Happy grilling (or baking, or roasting) Grillionaires!

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