Pizza oven or BBQ - Which is best for your backyard?

When it comes to outdoor cooking, one of the biggest dilemmas homeowners face is deciding between a pizza oven and a BBQ. Both options offer unique advantages and create a delightful culinary experience, but how do you determine which is the perfect fit for your backyard?

This blog will explore the factors you should consider when weighing an outdoor pizza oven against a BBQ. From the type of cooking you prefer to the available space and your budget, we'll delve into the key aspects that will guide you towards making the right choice.

What to consider when choosing a pizza oven or BBQ

When choosing a pizza oven or BBQ for your backyard, several important factors must be considered. Consider the available space and the foods you want to cook while also considering the fuel type—wood, charcoal, gas—and its availability and convenience. You should also evaluate the cooking capacity, temperature control features and ease of cleaning.

Here is a list of the things you should consider to make an informed selection between an outdoor pizza oven or a BBQ:

How much space do you have?

A courtyard is probably too small for a wood-fired pizza oven

In the pizza oven vs BBQ debate, one crucial factor to consider is the available space. Assess the dimensions of your outdoor area to determine if it can comfortably accommodate a pizza oven or barbeque. Additionally, consider the required clearance and installation requirements for each option. 

Pizza ovens may require more space due to their larger size and the need for proper ventilation, though smaller pizza ovens are available. BBQs, on the other hand, may have specific placement and clearance requirements for safety purposes.

How much do you want to spend?

When it comes to selecting the perfect addition for your backyard cooking adventures, your budget plays a crucial role. Start by determining the amount you're comfortable spending on purchasing and installing a pizza oven or BBQ. Compare the initial investment required for each, considering the price of the oven or BBQ itself and any additional installation expenses.

Additionally, consider the long-term costs, such as fuel and maintenance expenses. Pizza ovens often require wood, while BBQs may run on charcoal or propane. Factor in the ongoing fuel costs and maintenance requirements to ensure you make a well-informed decision that aligns with your budgetary constraints. Remember, finding the right balance between cost and quality will help you create a backyard cooking space that brings you joy without breaking the bank.

What do you like to cook and eat?

There’s nothing better than an authentic wood-fired pizza

When deciding between a pizza oven or a BBQ for your backyard, your cooking and eating preferences should be considered. Evaluate the versatility of each option and consider the variety of dishes you can prepare. A barbeque offers the opportunity to grill meats and vegetables and create healthy recipes with a smoky flavour.

Meanwhile, a pizza oven lets you craft delicious, artisanal pizzas with crispy crusts and melty toppings. A pizza oven is an excellent choice for individuals who prefer homemade pizza over takeaway pizzas or store-bought pizzas that require the kitchen oven. Home pizza ovens allow you to have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring freshness and quality. A pizza oven's high temperatures and even heat distribution elevate the homemade pizza experience to a whole new level.

Think about the range of cooking techniques and styles achievable with each appliance. If you enjoy experimenting and keeping things interesting, a barbeque might be ideal for trying out different marinades and grilling techniques. Alternatively, if you crave rustic comfort food and the art of cooking pizza, a pizza oven will impress friends and family with its authentic flavours and perfectly cooked pizza dough.

How much heat and temperature control do you want?

When it comes to heating functionality, both pizza ovens and BBQs have their own advantages. Pizza ovens are designed to reach extremely high temperatures, often exceeding 427°C. This high heat is crucial for achieving the desired crispy crust and perfectly cooked pizzas.

With their well-insulated chambers and specialised construction, pizza ovens retain heat efficiently, creating an optimal cooking environment.

The temperature of a gas BBQ is more easily controlled compared to a pizza oven, although it’s never going to reach the same high temperatures.

How much maintenance are you prepared for?

It's crucial to consider the amount of maintenance you're willing to handle. Evaluate the maintenance requirements and ongoing upkeep for an outdoor pizza oven as against a BBQ. Pizza ovens may require regular cleaning to remove ash, soot and debris, as well as occasional maintenance of the chimney or flue.

Meanwhile, BBQs may involve cleaning the grates, grease management and ensuring fuel availability, such as stocking charcoal or propane tanks. Consider factors such as the frequency of cleaning, ease of access to fuel sources and any additional maintenance tasks required.

A barbeque might be more suitable if you prefer a cooking option requiring less maintenance. However, if you enjoy maintaining and tending to a pizza oven and are keen to make your own pizza, a pizza oven might be for you.

How long will you spend in your home?

Do you live in your forever home, or are you living in a home that's more temporary? Consider your living plans and how an investment in a pizza oven or BBQ fits into those plans. If you envision staying in your current home for many years to come, you may prioritise an option that offers durability and longevity.

Consider the construction materials and build quality of each appliance and their ability to withstand outdoor elements. A pizza oven built to last will ensure you can enjoy countless culinary adventures in your backyard for years. On the other hand, if you anticipate moving in the near future, you might opt for a more portable or easily removable option like a bbq.

What do you like best?

Reflect on your personal preferences and the outdoor cooking experience you envision. Consider the factors that will enhance your overall enjoyment. If you appreciate the art of pizza-making and crave the authentic flavours of wood-fired crusts, a pizza oven may be a perfect choice, creating a cosy and rustic ambience.

Alternatively, if your preferred cooking method is a barbeque grill for meat and vegetables, a barbeque may be perfect for your culinary explorations. Reflecting on your desires for ambience, social gatherings, and the overall enjoyment of outdoor cooking will help guide you toward the ideal choice for your backyard.

Choose Callea Stone Masonry for the perfect authentic pizza oven

Choosing between a pizza oven and a barbeque for your backyard ultimately depends on your preferences, cooking style and specific requirements. You can make an informed decision by considering factors such as your preferred cooking methods, available space, budget, desired maintenance level, and long-term plans. Whether you prioritise the authentic taste and versatility of a pizza oven or the convenience and variety of a BBQ, both options offer unique benefits for your outdoor kitchen.

If you're looking for a stone mason who can craft pizza ovens in Melbourne, get in touch with Callea Stone Masonry.