blackstoneproducts

Outdoor cooking enthusiasts often face a delicious dilemma: should you invest in a dedicated portable pizza oven, or can your trusty Blackstone griddle handle pizza night just as well? With the rise of backyard pizza-making trends, many home chefs are exploring options that deliver crispy, wood-fired-style crusts without sacrificing the versatility of a flat-top. In this portable pizza oven review, we’ll compare the leading models—Ooni, Roccbox, and Gozney—against your griddle setup, and show you how combining both can elevate your outdoor kitchen game.

Why Consider a Portable Pizza Oven for Outdoor Cooking?

Portable pizza ovens have exploded in popularity because they reach high temperatures (900°F+) in minutes, producing authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas with charred, bubbly crusts. Unlike standard home ovens, these units are designed for outdoor use, often running on propane or wood pellets. When you’re already using a 36” Griddle Airfryer Combo for smash burgers and stir-fries, adding a pizza oven means you can host a full outdoor dinner party—from appetizers on the griddle to wood-fired pizzas as the main event.

Key Features to Look For in a Pizza Oven

• Temperature Range: Most portable pizza ovens hit 700–950°F. Look for models with built-in thermometers for precision.
• Fuel Type: Propane offers instant heat and control; wood pellets add smoky flavor but require more attention.
• Size and Portability: Compact units (under 40 lbs) are ideal for camping or tailgating, but larger models can cook 12–14-inch pies.
• Preheating Time: Good ovens preheat in 15–20 minutes. Faster is better for busy cooks.
• Stone Material: Cordierite or baking steel retain heat evenly and resist cracking.

Top Portable Pizza Ovens Compared

Model	Max Temp	Fuel Type	Pizza Size	Weight	Price Range
Ooni Koda 16	950°F	Propane	16 inches	40 lbs	$599
Roccbox by Gozney	920°F	Propane or wood	12 inches	44 lbs	$499
Gozney Dome	950°F	Propane or wood	16 inches	130 lbs	$1,999
Bertello Portable	900°F	Propane, wood, or charcoal	12 inches	28 lbs	$299

Note: Prices are approximate and may vary. Always check current listings.

Pizza on a Griddle: Can You Really Make Pizza Without a Dedicated Oven?

Absolutely! A Blackstone griddle can produce excellent pan-style or thin-crust pizzas, especially if you use a basting cover to trap heat. The key is to preheat your griddle to medium-high (around 450°F) and cook the crust on one side first, then flip and add toppings. While you won’t get the leopard-spot char of a 900°F oven, you’ll achieve a crispy bottom and melty cheese—perfect for weeknight dinners. For even better results, use a Small Cast Iron Griddle Press to flatten the dough evenly and ensure even browning.

Pros and Cons of Griddle Pizza vs. Dedicated Oven

• Griddle Pros: Already own it, no extra cost, versatile for other meals, easy cleanup with a grease management system.
• Griddle Cons: Lower max heat (typically 500–600°F), cannot achieve Neapolitan-style crust, limited to one pizza at a time.
• Pizza Oven Pros: Authentic high-heat results, faster cook times (60–90 seconds), can cook multiple pizzas in succession.
• Pizza Oven Cons: Additional expense (often $300–$2,000), takes up storage space, single-purpose unless you also use it for bread or roasting.

Best Pizza Oven for Outdoor Cooking: Our Top Pick

For most home cooks, the Ooni Koda 16 strikes the best balance between price, performance, and portability. Its large opening fits a 16-inch pizza, and the propane burner gives you steady heat control. If you prefer a smaller, more affordable option, the Bertello Portable is a great entry-level choice that also supports wood pellets for added smokiness. Both models pair well with your existing griddle setup—use the griddle for sides like roasted vegetables or garlic bread while the pizza oven does the heavy lifting.

How to Pair Your Pizza Oven with a Blackstone Griddle

Combining both appliances transforms your patio into a full outdoor kitchen. Here’s a sample menu for a pizza party:

1. Start on the griddle: Sauté mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers in butter for pizza toppings. Use a 32 oz Squeeze Bottles (4 Bottles) set to drizzle oil or sauce precisely.
2. Preheat the pizza oven while the griddle is still hot.
3. Cook appetizers on the griddle—think quesadillas, grilled shrimp, or stuffed mushrooms.
4. Bake pizzas in the oven (one after another), using a turning peel for even char.
5. Finish with dessert on the griddle: caramelized bananas with brown sugar and ice cream.

This workflow keeps the party moving and ensures no one waits too long for food.

Storage and Care Tips

Both your griddle and pizza oven need proper protection from the elements. Invest in a high-quality cover for each—the 28" Pro Series Griddle Cover is a great fit for many models, while pizza oven covers are often sold separately. Always let the oven cool completely before covering, and clean the pizza stone with a brass brush (never soap). For the griddle, use a grease solidifier after cooking to avoid clogging your drip tray.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Blackstone griddle as a pizza oven?

Yes, but results differ. For thin-crust or pan pizzas, it works well. For authentic Neapolitan, a dedicated oven is better.

What’s the best pizza oven for a small patio?

The Bertello Portable (28 lbs) or Ooni Koda 12 (26 lbs) are compact and easy to store.

Do I need a propane conversion kit for my pizza oven?

Some models come with a propane regulator; others need an adapter. Check the manufacturer’s specs before buying.

Can I cook other foods in a pizza oven?

Absolutely! Roast vegetables, bake bread, sear steaks, or even cook a whole chicken—if it fits.

Final Verdict: Which Setup Is Right for You?

If you already own a Blackstone griddle, you don’t need a pizza oven to enjoy homemade pizza. But if you’re serious about achieving that puffy, charred crust and want to expand your outdoor cooking repertoire, adding a portable pizza oven is a smart investment. The combination gives you unmatched versatility—griddle for everyday meals, pizza oven for weekend feasts. Whichever route you choose, focus on quality ingredients, proper heat management, and a good dose of patience.

Ready to upgrade your outdoor cooking setup? Start with the 36” Griddle Airfryer Combo for ultimate versatility—it handles pizzas, burgers, veggies, and even air-fried sides. Then, consider adding a portable pizza oven to your wish list. Your taste buds will thank you.