Canada’s slice of the global pizza market is a pretty big one. Centro Studi-Italia Canada estimates that Canadians are the third-largest pizza eaters, behind only the U.S. and Italy. Achieving the perfect crust and a great tasting pizza isn’t just about great ingredients, it’s about having the right tools, like a professional-grade outdoor pizza oven.
From choosing the right equipment to mastering dough preparation and airflow, this guide provides expert tips to help commercial kitchens consistently produce pizzas with impeccable crusts, every single time.
1. Choose the Right Outdoor Pizza Oven
Selecting the perfect outdoor pizza oven is the foundation of achieving the ideal crust. With numerous options available, it’s important to choose an oven that fits your cooking needs and space.
- Wood-Fired Ovens – These deliver a classic smoky flavour and can reach the high temperatures necessary for Neapolitan-style pizzas. However, they require skill to maintain consistent heat and are best suited for larger outdoor spaces.
- Gas-Powered Ovens – If convenience and precise temperature control are your priorities, these are an excellent choice.
- High-Speed Ovens – This type of oven is ideal for kitchens or outdoor setups where speed and efficiency are essential, especially for frozen or pre-prepared pizzas. For instance, The Chef Express, a high-speed oven, combines convection heat, high-speed impinged air, and microwave energy to reduce cooking times by up to 80%.
- Hybrid Ovens – These ovens offer the flexibility of using wood, gas, or both, depending on your preference.
2. Master the Dough Preparation
The journey to the perfect crust starts with well-prepared dough. A hydration level of 55–80% (water-to-flour ratio) creates a dough that’s both light and crispy. Cold fermentation, where the dough rests in the fridge for 24–48 hours, enhances its flavour and texture.
When preparing the dough, knead it enough to develop elasticity and gluten, which helps it hold its shape and achieve an airy texture. Let the dough come to room temperature before stretching—it’s easier to work with and less prone to tearing.
3. Achieve the Ideal Temperature
Getting the perfect crust in your outdoor pizza oven depends heavily on mastering the temperature. Most pizzas cook best in a temperature range of 450–900°F, depending on the style of pizza you’re aiming for. Preheating your outdoor pizza oven is essential for consistent results.
4. Use the Right Cooking Surface
The cooking surface in your outdoor pizza oven plays a vital role in achieving the perfect crust. Pizza stones and ceramic surfaces retain heat well, promoting even cooking and producing that sought-after crispy bottom. Steel surfaces, on the other hand, heat up faster and can deliver excellent browning for a crunchier crust. Before placing your pizza in the oven, ensure the cooking surface is preheated to the optimal temperature.
5. Timing is Everything
Most pizzas cook in just 60–120 seconds in high-temperature ovens, but timing can vary depending on the thickness of the crust and the type of oven you’re using. Thinner crusts require less time, while thicker crusts benefit from a slightly longer bake at a lower temperature. Rotating the pizza partway through can also ensure an even bake.
6. Experiment with Toppings and Placement
While the crust is the foundation, your choice of ingredients and their arrangement play a significant role in the final result. Too many toppings can weigh down the crust and lead to uneven cooking or sogginess. Spread sauces lightly, and avoid overloading with heavy or watery ingredients.
For toppings like fresh vegetables, pat them dry before placing them on the pizza to prevent excess moisture from seeping into the crust. Distribute toppings evenly to ensure consistent cooking and flavour in every bite.
7. The Role of Proper Airflow in Cooking
Airflow is a critical yet often overlooked factor in achieving the perfect crust in your oven. Proper airflow ensures even heat distribution, allowing the crust to cook uniformly without hot or cold spots. For optimal airflow, avoid overcrowding the oven with multiple pizzas or large dishes at once.
Browse a Large Selection of Outdoor Pizza Ovens
Find the ideal ovens at Celco Food Service Equipment Inc. As one of Canada’s top commercial kitchen equipment suppliers, we understand your needs and business priorities. Our ovens are reliable, efficient, and help you boost production without compromising on quality. Click here to discover our full range of ovens. If you have any questions, our team will be happy to help.