Can you use a pizza oven on a fire pit?

Quick Answer

Yes, you can use a pizza oven on a fire pit if you take some precautions. The key things to consider are:

• Having a grill grate or metal plate to set the pizza oven on.
• Keeping the fire pit flames low enough to not scorch the bottom of the oven.
• Preheating the oven before cooking.
• Rotating the pizza for even cooking.

With some setup considerations, using a pizza oven on a fire pit can be a fun way to make pizza outdoors. Just be sure to keep safety in mind when working around an open flame.

Can You Put a Pizza Oven on a Fire Pit?

Putting a pizza oven directly on top of a fire pit is generally not recommended. Most pizza ovens are not designed to withstand direct contact with flames. However, with the right materials as a buffer, you can safely use a pizza oven on a fire pit.

The key requirements are:

• Having some kind of metal plate or grill grate to set the pizza oven on. This raises the oven above direct contact with flames.
• Keeping the fire pit flames relatively low or diffuse. You don’t want tall, licking flames hitting the underside of the oven.
• Giving the oven time to preheat before cooking. This allows the oven floor and walls to come up to temperature before putting in food.
• Rotating the pizza occasionally for even cooking. The oven will have hotter and cooler spots when used on a fire pit.

With these considerations in mind, you can absolutely cook pizza in an oven set on a fire pit. It just requires some planning and monitoring during the cooking process.

Steps for Using a Pizza Oven on a Fire Pit

Follow these key steps for safely and effectively using a pizza oven on top of a fire pit:

1. Place a metal grill grate, pizza oven floor insert, or other sturdy metal plate over the fire pit.
2. Build a fire in the pit underneath the grill plate and allow it burn down to low, diffuse flames.
3. Place the pizza oven on top of the grill grate or plate. Be sure it sits securely.
4. Allow the oven to preheat for at least 30 minutes, up to an hour if possible.
5. Prepare and shape your pizza dough.
6. Slide the pizza into the preheated oven using a pizza peel.
7. Rotate the pizza every 2-3 minutes for even cooking.
8. Check frequently until the bottom and crust are browned and the cheese is melted.
9. Remove the cooked pizza from the oven and slice to serve.
10. Repeat steps as needed for additional pizzas.

The most important steps are having a buffer between the flames and oven, preheating sufficiently, and rotating the pizza for even cooking. With some trial and error, you’ll get the hang of baking pizza in the oven on a fire pit.

Tips for Cooking Pizza on a Fire Pit

Here are some helpful tips to get the best results when using a pizza oven on a fire pit:

• Use hardwoods like oak or hickory for a hotter, longer-lasting fire.
• Let the fire burn down to low flames so it gently heats the oven floor.
• Preheat for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour if possible.
• Keep the pit ventilated for proper airflow to fuel the fire.
• Start with a thermometer to gauge temperature until you get the hang of it.
• Rotate the pizza every few minutes for even top and bottom baking.
• Brush excess flour off the dough so it doesn’t burn.
• Don’t overload the pizza with too many toppings.
• Use a pizza peel to easily slide the pizza in and out of the oven.

With some experimenting, you’ll get a feel for how to maintain the right oven temperature and adjust the flames as needed. The result is wood-fired pizza with an authentic, smoky flavor.

Pros and Cons of Using a Pizza Oven on a Fire Pit

Here are some of the key pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

• Adds a unique wood-fired flavor
• Makes use of existing outdoor fire pit
• Provides authentic pizza restaurant experience
• Fun for outdoor cooking and entertaining
• Allows very high heat for pizza cooking

Cons:

• Requires extra setup and safety steps
• Temperature regulation can be tricky
• Potential for scorching if flames are too high
• Need sufficient clearance around fire pit
• Restricted air flow can limit oven performance

The wood-fired taste and experience are hard to replicate any other way at home. With some care and planning, the pros generally outweigh the cons for most pizza enthusiasts.

Safety Tips

Whenever cooking over an open fire pit, it’s crucial to keep safety in mind:

• Have a fire extinguisher or hose on hand.
• Don’t wear flammable or loose clothing.
• Tie back long hair.
• Supervise children and pets around the fire pit.
• Allow proper ventilation and airflow.
• Ensure the pizza oven is securely positioned.
• Use oven mitts when handling hot surfaces.
• Don’t overload the pizza with toppings.
• Monitor the fire and oven temperature.

With basic precautions, you can focus on culinary creativity and enjoying delicious wood-fired pizza safely.

Best Fire Pits for Pizza Ovens

Look for these features in a fire pit intended for use with a pizza oven:

• Size – A larger diameter pit allows more clearance for the oven.
• Adjustable grates – Multi-level grates make it easier to regulate heat.
• Ventilation – Good airflow feeds the fire with oxygen.
• Durable metal – Heavy-duty steel or iron prevents warping.
• Portability – Wheels make it easy to move the fire pit.

Some good pit options include:

Breeo X Series Smokeless Fire Pit

• 24-inch diameter
• Adjustable cooking grates
• Draft ventilation system
• Heavy 14-gauge steel

Solo Stove Bonfire Fire Pit

• 19.5-inch diameter
• 304 stainless steel construction
• Airflow ventilation system
• Compact and portable

Yaheetech Multi-Purpose Fire Pit

• Large 31-inch diameter
• Adjustable stainless steel grates
• Mesh screen lid for controlled airflow
• Lockable wheels for portability

A quality fire pit designed for cooking will allow you to safely and successfully use your pizza oven for that perfect wood-fired pizza flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature does a pizza oven need to be?

A pizza oven should reach temperatures between 600-900°F. Lower temperatures around 600°F are sufficient for baking pizzas. For authentic Neapolitan-style, you need 850-900°F for the pizza to cook in 1-2 minutes.

How close can a pizza oven be to combustibles?

Pizza ovens should have 36-48 inches clearance from combustible materials. Check the manufacturer specifications. Some may require up to 60 inches of clearance or installation on a non-combustible surface.

What is the best wood to use in a pizza oven?

Hardwoods like oak and hickory are best for pizza ovens. They burn hotter and longer. Avoid resinous woods like pine that can impart a strong flavor. The wood should be thoroughly seasoned and dry.

Should you put a pizza stone in a pizza oven?

Pizza stones are not necessary in purpose-built pizza ovens. The oven floor is designed to evenly retain and conduct heat. Stones are more useful in home ovens to mimic the heat of a pizza oven.

How often do you need to rotate the pizza in a pizza oven?

Rotate the pizza every 2-3 minutes as it cooks. This ensures the crust and bottom char evenly and the toppings heat through. You may need to rotate less in a very hot oven.

Conclusion

Using a pizza oven on top of a fire pit may require some special setup, but can produce excellent results. The key is having a buffer between the oven and fire, preheating sufficiently, regulating the flame height, and rotating the pizzas for even cooking. With some safety precautions and practice controlling the fire, you can make authentic wood-fired pizzas using your basic backyard fire pit and pizza oven. This unique cooking method brings an added layer of wood-fired flavor and fun to your outdoor pizza experience.