12 Surprising Things You Can Make In Your Outdoor Pizza Oven
Outdoor pizza ovens are a fantastic addition to any backyard or outdoor space. They may even become a focal point of entertainment during gatherings and parties, offering family and friends a chance to socialize and participate in the cooking process, too.
While these ovens are great for cooking traditional pizzas, they offer even more versatility than you might expect. From delicious appetizers to mouthwatering desserts, outdoor pizza ovens can be used to create a wide variety of dishes with a bit of wood-fired flavor infusion.
So, fire up your pizza oven, invite your friends and family, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure right in your own backyard! Here are 12 unexpected and delicious wood-fired recipes you can make in your pizza oven this summer—or any time of year.
Hungry for more? Explore our collection of outdoor pizza ovens and get inspired for your next gathering.
1. Roasted vegetables
Transform your favorite vegetables into a flavorful and nutritious side dish by roasting them in your outdoor pizza oven.
The high heat will give them a smoky and slightly charred taste that enhances their natural flavors. Try roasting bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant or even Brussels sprouts for a delicious side to any meal.
2. Herb-infused olive oil
Take your olive oil to the next level by infusing it with aromatic herbs.
Place a small, heat resistant dish filled with olive oil and your favorite herbs, such as rosemary, thyme or basil, in your pizza oven. Let it warm gently, allowing the herbs to release their fragrant oils into the olive oil. This infusion can be used as a dipping sauce for bread or as a flavorful drizzle over salads and grilled meats.
3. Baked Brie
Indulge in the gooey goodness of baked Brie with the help of your pizza oven.
Wrap a wheel of Brie in puff pastry and place it on a pizza stone. Let it bake until the pastry turns golden brown and the cheese inside becomes delightfully melted and creamy. Serve it with crackers, fresh fruits or a sweet jam for a luxurious appetizer that will impress your guests.
4. Wood-fired bread
There’s something truly special about baking bread in a wood-fired oven.
The intense heat and smoky flavor brought on by the open fire create a crusty exterior and a soft, airy interior. Whether you prefer baguettes, sourdough or ciabatta, your outdoor pizza oven can help you achieve bakery-quality bread right at home.
5. Smoked meats
Did you know your outdoor pizza oven can be transformed into a fantastic smoker?
Utilize the oven’s ability to maintain low, consistent temperatures for long periods to smoke ribs, brisket or even a whole chicken! The result will be tender, flavorful meat with a hint of smokiness that is sure to impress your family and friends.
6. Grilled seafood
Elevate your seafood grilling game by utilizing the high heat of your pizza oven.
From succulent shrimp skewers to perfectly seared scallops, the intense heat will give your seafood a delightful char while keeping it juicy and flavorful.
7. Dessert pizzas
While traditional pizzas are undoubtedly delicious, dessert pizzas offer a sweet twist on this classic dish.
Experiment with flavors by topping a pizza crust with Nutella, fresh fruits, marshmallows or even caramel sauce. You can even create a dessert bar option where guests choose their own toppings for a personalized sweet treat made to their preferences.
8. Wood-fired paella
Impress your guests with a mouthwatering wood-fired paella cooked to perfection in your outdoor pizza oven.
Baked in a large cast iron skillet, the even heat distribution and smoky undertones from the wood fire will infuse the rice, meat and seafood with incredible flavor. This Spanish classic is sure to become a favorite for gatherings and special occasions.
9. Roasted nuts
Upgrade your snack game by roasting nuts in your outdoor pizza oven.
Simply toss your favorite nuts, such as almonds, pecans or cashews, with a mixture of honey, spices and a pinch of salt. Spread them on a baking sheet and let them roast until golden and fragrant. The result is a crunchy and flavor-packed snack perfect for any occasion.
10. Wood-fired meatballs
Prepare your favorite meatball recipe, whether it’s beef, pork, chicken or vegetarian.
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet or in a cast iron skillet, and cook them in the pizza oven until they are cooked through and slightly browned. Serve them with marinara sauce for dipping and a healthy topping of freshly grated Parmesan.
11. Stuffed mushrooms
If you’re looking for a quick pizza oven recipe, try making savory stuffed mushrooms!
Simply add your stuffed mushrooms—filled with a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, cheese and minced garlic—to your pizza oven and cook until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
12. Stone fruit cobblers
Take advantage of the intense heat to create delectable stone fruit cobblers.
Fill a cast iron skillet with ripe peaches, plums or cherries and top it with a buttery biscuit crust. Place the skillet in your pizza oven and let it bake until the fruit is bubbly and the crust is golden brown. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect summer dessert.
Hungry for more? Explore our collection of outdoor pizza ovens and get inspired for your next gathering.
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