What Else Can You Cook in a Pizza Oven?

A pizza oven is a fantastic addition to any garden, offering the ability to create restaurant-quality pizzas with that signature wood-fired flavour. However, pizza ovens are far more versatile than many people realise. With their high temperatures and even heat distribution, they can be used to cook a wide variety of dishes. Here’s a look at what else you can cook in a pizza oven to make the most of this amazing tool.

1. Bread and Baked Goods

Pizza ovens are perfect for baking bread, thanks to their ability to maintain consistent high temperatures. Artisan loaves like sourdough or ciabatta develop a beautifully crisp crust and fluffy interior. You can also bake flatbreads, rolls, and even sweet treats like cinnamon buns or fruit-studded tea cakes. The wood-fired heat gives baked goods a rustic flavour that’s hard to achieve in a conventional oven.

2. Roast Meats and Vegetables

The intense heat of a pizza oven is ideal for roasting meats. Try cooking a whole chicken, beef joint, or pork belly in a cast-iron dish. The high temperatures create a perfectly crispy exterior while locking in moisture for tender, juicy meat.

Vegetables like peppers, courgettes, and aubergines roast beautifully in a pizza oven, gaining a slightly smoky flavour. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and herbs before cooking for a delicious side dish.

3. Fish and Seafood

Pizza ovens are great for cooking fish and seafood. Whole fish, such as sea bass or trout, can be wrapped in foil with lemon, garlic, and herbs for a simple yet impressive meal. Shellfish like prawns and scallops cook quickly and gain a subtle charred flavour when grilled in the oven.

4. Casseroles and One-Pot Dishes

Casseroles, stews, and one-pot meals can also be prepared in a pizza oven. Use a heatproof dish with a lid to slow-cook hearty dishes like beef stew, chilli con carne, or even a classic shepherd’s pie. The even heat of the oven allows the flavours to meld beautifully, creating a comforting, home-cooked meal.

Key Takeaways:

• Bake bread and sweet treats for a rustic, wood-fired flavour.
• Roast meats and vegetables for tender, smoky results.
• Cook fish and seafood for quick, flavourful dishes.
• Prepare casseroles and one-pot meals for hearty, comforting dinners.

A pizza oven is an incredibly versatile cooking tool that can transform your outdoor cooking experience. With a bit of creativity, you can go far beyond pizzas and enjoy a variety of delicious, wood-fired dishes.