Affordable Backyard Pizza Ovens: Top Picks Under $200 in the USA
If you’re searching for an affordable way to enjoy delicious homemade pizza, consider investing in a backyard pizza oven. Luckily, there are great options available under $200 in the USA that deliver excellent performance without breaking the bank. Let’s explore some top picks that will transform your outdoor cooking experience.
The allure of a backyard pizza oven lies in the joy of crafting your favorite pies right at home. With a reliable oven, you’ll impress friends and family with your culinary skills while enjoying fresh pizza baked to perfection. Below, you’ll find a curated list of backyard pizza ovens under $200 to help you choose the perfect model for your needs.
Top Affordable Backyard Pizza Ovens:
- Delivita Wood-Fired Pizza Oven – Priced around $199, this compact beauty is portable and lightweight. Made from durable ceramic, it reaches high temperatures quickly, allowing you to cook a pizza in just 60 seconds. This oven is perfect for gatherings, and its stylish design makes it an attractive addition to your patio.
- Camp Chef Artisan Pizza Oven – Retailing for about $170, this oven fits on top of a Camp Chef grill, making it super easy to use. With a built-in temperature gauge and precise heat control, you can bake a perfect pizza every time. Plus, its efficient design cooks pizzas evenly, ensuring a delightful crust.
- LaToscana Pizza Oven – Available for $199, this oven boasts classic Italian design and functionality. Made from stainless steel, it can handle high temperatures and is easy to clean. It’s perfect for backyard parties or casual family dinners – because who doesn’t love pizza?
- Ooni Fyra Pizza Oven – Though normally retailing higher, look for specials that bring this oven just under $200. The Fyra uses wood pellets for a delicious smoky flavor and reaches temperatures up to 932°F in just 15 minutes. This means you can enjoy fresh pizza with crispy crusts without the long waiting times.
- Blackstone Outdoor Flat Top Pizza Oven – Priced around $180, this oven is incredibly versatile. It features a flat top surface that can accommodate multiple pizzas at once. Perfect for larger gatherings, this oven cooks evenly and quickly, so you can serve up slices for everyone.
When choosing a pizza oven, consider factors like size, fuel type, and cooking time. Here are some important points to keep in mind:
- Size: Make sure you have enough space for the oven, and consider how many pizzas you want to cook simultaneously. A larger oven allows for more pizzas but may require more outdoor space.
- Fuel Type: Backyard pizza ovens typically use wood, gas, or charcoal. Decide what suits your cooking style best. Wood-fired ovens impart a unique flavor, while gas options provide convenience.
- Temperature Control: Look for an oven with a temperature gauge or an efficient heating mechanism. Higher temperatures mean quicker cooking times and better crusts.
One of the biggest advantages of having a backyard pizza oven is versatility. You’re not limited to just pizza! Impress guests with a variety of dishes. Bake bread, roast vegetables, or even cook meat to perfection. The high heat radiating from the oven creates exquisite flavors that will elevate your outdoor cooking.
Besides being practical, a backyard pizza oven adds a social element to your gatherings. Imagine friends standing around, engaging in lively conversations while you prepare freshly baked pizzas. Everyone can get involved in choosing toppings, rolling out dough, and pulling pizzas from the oven. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience!
Furthermore, these backyard pizza ovens under $200 provide great value for your investment. You’ll save money in the long run compared to ordering takeout. And the bonus? You’ll have control over the ingredients, allowing you to create healthier versions of your favorite pizzas.
So, is it time to level up your outdoor cooking game? With a variety of affordable options, you can find the perfect backyard pizza oven that fits your budget. Whichever oven you choose, get ready to enjoy delicious homemade pizzas that will delight your taste buds and bring everyone together.
Tips for Perfecting Your Pizza Skills with a Budget Oven
Creating the perfect pizza at home can be a delightful experience, especially with a backyard pizza oven that fits your budget. If you’re aiming to master your pizza-making skills without breaking the bank, there are several tips and tricks you can use. Let’s dive right into the details that will help you elevate your pizza game using a budget-friendly oven.
Understanding Your Oven
Before you start making pizza, take some time to understand your backyard oven. Each model comes with its unique features, and knowing your oven’s heat distribution, temperature capacity, and cooking surface will enhance your cooking experience.
Temperature Control
Controlling temperature is crucial for excellent pizza. Most budget ovens heat up quickly, but make sure to preheat your pizza oven for about 30 minutes. This will ensure an even cook and give your crust that perfect crunch.
Oven Space
The size of your oven will affect how many pizzas you can cook at once. With smaller ovens, it’s better to cook one pizza at a time and keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn. Also, rotating your pizza halfway through the cooking time can promote even cooking.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Quality ingredients can significantly impact your pizza’s flavor, even when using a budget oven. Here are some essential ingredients to focus on:
- Dough: Consider making your own dough. It’s simple and far more rewarding than store-bought options. Use high-protein bread flour for the best results.
- Sauce: A homemade tomato sauce can elevate your pizza. Simply blend canned tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a fresh taste.
- Cheese: Choose a mix of mozzarella for stretch and a stronger cheese like Pecorino Romano for flavor.
- Toppings: Fresh vegetables, high-quality meats, and creative toppings can transform your pizza. Don’t shy away from experimenting!
Perfecting Your Dough
Dough is the foundation of any great pizza. To achieve perfect consistency, knead your dough well, and allow it to rise properly. Here’s how:
- Mix flour, water, yeast, and salt until combined.
- Knead the mixture for at least 10 minutes to develop gluten.
- Let your dough rest for 1-2 hours. This allows the flavors to develop and makes stretching easier.
- For added flavor, consider cold-proofing your dough. Let it rise in the refrigerator overnight for a deeper taste.
Shaping Your Pizza
Once your dough is ready to go, it’s time to shape your pizza. Avoid using a rolling pin because it can flatten the air bubbles. Instead, gently stretch the dough with your hands:
- Start in the center and work your way outwards, using your fingertips.
- Allow the edges to be thicker for a crust that holds in the delicious toppings.
- Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly round; character is key!
Cooking the Pizza
When cooking your pizza, a pizza peel is your best friend. Dust it with flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking. Here’s how to cook:
- Place your stretched dough onto the peel directly.
- Quickly add sauce, cheese, and toppings to minimize the risk of sticking.
- Slide the pizza onto the preheated oven floor. Use your peel to assist if needed.
- Keep a close eye on the pizza, turning it if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Finishing Touches
Once your pizza is achieved the perfect golden color, use a pizza cutter to slice it up. Don’t forget to finish with a drizzle of olive oil or fresh basil for that gourmet touch. Each pizza can be a canvas for you to explore different flavors and styles!
Perfecting your pizza skills may take time, but with your budget oven and these tips, you are well on your way to creating delicious pizzas that your friends and family will love. Happy cooking!
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like the joy of creating your own pizza right in your backyard. With the variety of affordable backyard pizza ovens available for under $200 in the USA, you’re well-equipped to enjoy this delicious experience without breaking the bank. From compact models that are easy to set up to portable options perfect for gatherings, you’ll find the right fit for your space and needs.
Remember, it’s not just about the oven; perfecting your pizza-making skills is part of the fun. Experiment with different dough recipes, toppings, and cooking times to find your perfect pie. Using a pizza stone can help ensure an evenly cooked crust, so don’t ignore this adjustable accessory—even on a budget.
Engaging friends and family in the process can elevate the experience, transforming pizza night into a social event. As you try out new recipes and cooking techniques, you’ll not only improve your pizza-making prowess but also create lasting memories over a shared meal.
Embrace the adventure of cooking outdoors and take pride in your homemade pizzas. With a bit of patience and practice, you’ll soon become the neighborhood pizza aficionado! So gather your ingredients, fire up that oven, and let the delicious aroma of freshly baked pizza fill your backyard. Affordable pizza ovens are a gateway to fun and flavor, and with just a little creativity, your backyard can become the ultimate pizza destination. Enjoy the journey, and savor every slice!
