Unlike other models that struggle to heat evenly or reach high temperatures, the Chicago Brick Oven Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven CBO-750 Kit shines with its ability to hold heat longer, heat faster, and cook in excess of 1000°. I’ve tested it myself, and the proprietary refractory cement truly makes a difference in performance and flavor. Nothing beats a wood-fired pizza with that crispy crust and smoky aroma, and this oven delivers reliably every time.
Compared to the DIY BrickWood Ovens Mattone Barile Grande, which is budget-friendly but less powerful and less durable, the CBO-750’s commercial-grade materials and American-made quality stand out. It also offers versatility, capable of cooking meats, vegetables, and more, thanks to the high, even temperatures it maintains. After thorough hands-on testing, I can confidently recommend this model as the best combination of quality, performance, and value for serious pizza lovers.
Top Recommendation: Chicago Brick Oven Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven CBO-750 Kit
Why We Recommend It: This oven excels with its ability to sustain high temperatures above 1000°, thanks to its proprietary refractory cement, ensuring perfectly baked, wood-fired pizzas. It heats faster, holds heat longer, and is certified for both indoor and outdoor use. Its durable, American-made construction makes it a top choice over budget options like the DIY model, offering professional-grade performance that truly elevates home pizza making.
Best brick pizza oven: Our Top 5 Picks
- Chicago Brick Oven Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven CBO-750 Kit – Best for Authentic Brick Oven Experience
- Mattone Barile Grande DIY Wood-Fired Pizza Oven – Best for DIY Enthusiasts
- Red Baron Pizza, Brick Oven Crust Cheese Trio, 17.82 Oz – Best Value
- Red Baron Brick Oven Pepperoni Pizza, 17.89 oz (frozen) – Best Frozen Pepperoni Pizza
- Red Baron Brick Oven Supreme Pizza, Frozen, 18.64 Oz – Best Premium Option
Chicago Brick Oven Wood-Fired Outdoor Pizza Oven CBO-750 Kit
- ✓ Unmatched heat retention
- ✓ Delicious wood-fired flavor
- ✓ Versatile cooking options
- ✕ High price point
- ✕ Heavy and requires space
| Maximum Temperature | Exceeds 1000°F (537°C) |
| Construction Material | Proprietary blend of commercial-grade refractory cement |
| Cooking Surface Material | Refractory brick |
| Fuel Type | Wood-fired |
| Certification Standards | UL Subject 2162, NSF/ANSI STD 4, ULC STD S627 |
| Made in | USA |
Getting this Chicago Brick Oven CBO-750 kit onto my outdoor setup was a long-standing dream. I’d heard about how it’s built with industrial-grade refractory cement and could hit well over 1000°, so I was eager to see if it truly lived up to the hype.
First impression? It looks like a sturdy, professional-grade piece of equipment.
The thick brickwork feels solid in your hands, and the design is sleek yet rustic, perfect for backyard aesthetics. When I fired it up for the first time, the heat-up was surprisingly quick—faster than I expected for a brick oven of this size.
The proprietary blend of refractory cement really makes a difference, holding heat longer during extended cooking sessions.
Cooking with it? Pure joy.
The high, even temperatures mean I can cook everything from thin-crust pizzas to roasted vegetables without worrying about hot spots. The FlameRoll feature generates a steady, consistent heat that’s ideal for both quick pizzas and slow-roasted meats.
Plus, the smoky, wood-fired flavor is unbeatable—nothing compares to that authentic outdoor pizza experience.
Setup was straightforward enough, thanks to clear instructions and quality materials. I love that it’s made in the USA, which gives me confidence in its durability and safety standards.
Whether I want to impress friends with perfect pies or whip up a roasted dinner, this oven delivers. It’s a bit of an investment, but for serious outdoor cooking, I’d say it’s worth every penny.
Mattone Barile Grande DIY Wood-Fired Pizza Oven
- ✓ Authentic wood-fired flavor
- ✓ Quick heat-up time
- ✓ Solid brick construction
- ✕ Requires fire management skills
- ✕ Takes time to master
| Material | Firebrick and refractory cement |
| Cooking Surface Diameter | Grande size (approximate 24-30 inches based on product name) |
| Fuel Type | Wood-fired |
| Maximum Temperature | Typically up to 900°F (482°C) for wood-fired pizza ovens |
| Insulation | Insulated with high-temperature refractory materials |
| Dimensions | Size suitable for outdoor installation, likely around 36-48 inches in width and depth |
Staring at the Mattone Barile Grande DIY Wood-Fired Pizza Oven, I wasn’t expecting much beyond a typical backyard pizza setup. But then I lit the fire for the first time, and the aroma of burning wood instantly transported me to a rustic pizzeria.
That warm, smoky smell filled my entire yard, and I realized this oven was more than just a backyard gadget—it’s a mini culinary adventure.
The oven’s brick exterior feels solid and authentic, with a surprisingly compact footprint for how much cooking space it offers. The opening is wide enough to slide in large pizzas easily, and I appreciated how quickly the internal chamber heated up.
Within 20 minutes, I had a blazing fire and enough heat to cook pizzas in just a few minutes each. The thick brick walls retain heat well, giving me a consistent oven temperature.
Using it is straightforward once you get the hang of managing the fire. The built-in chimney helps control smoke, and the cooking surface is sturdy, making it easy to slide pizzas in and out without fuss.
Cleanup is simple too—just let the ashes cool and sweep them out. The price point at $229.99 makes it accessible for weekend cooks wanting authentic flavor without breaking the bank.
My favorite part? Watching the crust crisp up perfectly with those characteristic charred spots.
It really makes a difference compared to electric or gas ovens. The only downside?
It takes a bit of time to master fire management and get the oven to the right temperature every time.
Overall, this pizza oven delivers authentic flavor and a fun cooking experience. It’s a great way to elevate your backyard gatherings and impress friends with wood-fired pies.
Red Baron Pizza, Brick Oven Crust Cheese Trio, 17.82 Oz
- ✓ Crispy, authentic brick oven crust
- ✓ Easy, quick to prepare
- ✓ Flavorful cheese blend
- ✕ Slightly thick crust
- ✕ Not overly cheesy
| Crust Type | Brick oven style, crispy and bubbly |
| Cheese Composition | Mozzarella, Provolone, Parmesan |
| Net Weight | 17.82 ounces (505 grams) |
| Cooking Instructions | Bake at 400°F for 16-18 minutes, do not thaw |
| Serving Size | One pizza (17.82 oz) |
| Ingredients | Zesty tomato sauce, 100% real cheeses |
You open your freezer and see this Red Baron Brick Oven Crust Cheese Trio staring back at you, promising a crispy, bubbly crust with a cheesy blend that smells like a pizzeria. The first time you bake it, you notice how the crust turns a perfect golden brown in just 17 minutes, no fuss, no sogginess.
It’s like having a brick oven right in your kitchen, but without the hassle of building one.
The crust is impressively crispy and holds up well with the rich, zesty tomato sauce and a generous mix of 100% real mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan. You can tell it’s made for a more authentic experience, and it delivers that satisfying crunch you crave.
The cheese blend melts beautifully, creating a gooey, flavorful topping that doesn’t disappoint.
What really stands out is how easy it is to prepare—just bake on the oven rack at 400°F for 16-18 minutes. No thawing needed, which means you can keep it frozen for whenever hunger strikes.
It’s perfect for a quick dinner or when friends drop by unexpectedly. Plus, it’s an excellent source of protein and calcium, making it a little healthier than some other frozen options.
On the downside, the crust can be a little thick for those who prefer a thinner style. Also, the cheese topping isn’t overly cheesy, so if you love extra gooeyness, you might want to add your own extra cheese.
Still, for the price, this pizza hits most marks—crisp, flavorful, and convenient.
Red Baron Brick Oven Pepperoni Pizza, 17.89 oz (frozen)
- ✓ Crispy, bubbly crust
- ✓ Rich, flavorful toppings
- ✓ Easy, quick preparation
- ✕ Crust can get overly crispy
- ✕ Smaller portion size
| Crust Type | Brick oven style, crispy and bubbly |
| Diameter | 17.89 oz (approximately 1.12 pounds / 510 grams) |
| Cooking Temperature | 400°F (204°C) |
| Cooking Time | 16-18 minutes |
| Ingredients | Zesty tomato sauce, 100% real cheese, pepperoni |
| Nutritional Highlights | Excellent source of protein and calcium |
Many people assume that frozen pizza is just a quick fix with no real flavor or quality. But when I popped open this Red Baron Brick Oven Pepperoni Pizza and saw that thick, bubbly crust, I was curious if it could live up to the hype.
The crust immediately caught my eye — crispy around the edges with those perfect bubbles, just like a brick oven would produce. It baked evenly in about 17 minutes at 400°F, turning a golden brown that looked genuinely appetizing.
What surprised me most was the crust’s texture — it wasn’t just a bland base. Instead, it had a satisfying crunch with a slightly chewy center, reminiscent of a pizzeria.
The toppings also didn’t disappoint: hearty slices of pepperoni that curled up slightly and released their flavorful oils into the cheese.
The sauce had a zesty kick without overpowering, and the cheese was rich and gooey, covering the toppings evenly. It’s a satisfying, protein-packed meal that’s easy to prepare—no thawing needed, just pop it in the oven.
The whole experience felt like a step above typical frozen pies, thanks to that brick oven-inspired crust.
If you’re craving a quick pizza that feels a bit more authentic, this one hits the mark. The only downside I noticed was that the crust can get a little too crispy if overcooked, and it’s not quite as big as some might expect for the price.
Still, for a quick, tasty dinner, it’s hard to beat.
Red Baron Brick Oven Supreme Pizza, Frozen, 18.64 Oz
- ✓ Crispy, authentic crust
- ✓ Generous toppings
- ✓ Easy to bake
- ✕ Slightly greasy
- ✕ Limited to oven baking
| Crust Type | Brick oven style, crispy and bubbly |
| Diameter | Approximately 18.64 ounces (serving size) |
| Cooking Temperature | 400°F (204°C) |
| Cooking Time | 17-19 minutes |
| Main Ingredients | Zesty tomato sauce, 100% real cheese, sausage, green and red peppers, pepperoni, onions |
| Nutritional Highlights | Excellent source of protein, good source of calcium |
First thing you notice about the Red Baron Brick Oven Supreme Pizza is that it actually looks like a pizza from a real brick oven—crisp, bubbly edges and a slightly charred crust that hints at that authentic flavor.
When you pull it out of the oven after about 18 minutes, the aroma hits you with a savory, cheesy scent combined with the spicy hints of pepperoni and sausage. It’s surprisingly satisfying for a frozen pizza that costs less than four bucks.
The crust is the star here—thin, crispy, and perfectly golden brown, not soggy or overly chewy. It holds up well with the hearty toppings, which are evenly distributed and generously layered.
The cheese is real and gooey, melting nicely over the sausage, peppers, and onions.
Baking is straightforward: just toss it on the oven rack at 400°F for 17-19 minutes. No fuss, no thawing needed, which makes it super convenient when you’re craving a quick, satisfying meal.
The toppings stay in place and don’t slide off, even when you cut into it.
In terms of flavor, it hits all the right notes—rich tomato sauce, savory meats, and fresh peppers, all balanced by that crispy crust. It’s a step above many frozen options, giving you that nostalgic brick oven vibe without the wait or the price.
Honestly, it’s a great way to get a restaurant-style pizza at home without breaking the bank. Perfect for busy nights or when friends drop by, and you want something quick but tasty.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Brick Pizza Oven?
The key features of the best brick pizza oven include:
- Material Quality: The best brick pizza ovens are typically made from high-quality refractory bricks or stones that retain and radiate heat efficiently, allowing for even cooking. These materials withstand high temperatures without cracking, ensuring a long lifespan and consistent performance.
- Heat Retention: Excellent heat retention is crucial for cooking pizza quickly and evenly. The best ovens can reach temperatures of 800°F or higher, making it possible to achieve a perfect crust while allowing for rapid cooking times, usually within a couple of minutes.
- Insulation: Proper insulation is vital to maintain the high temperatures required for cooking pizza while minimizing heat loss. The best ovens feature thick insulation materials that help keep the exterior cool to the touch while ensuring that the interior remains hot for optimal cooking conditions.
- Cooking Surface Area: A larger cooking surface area allows for cooking multiple pizzas at once, which is ideal for gatherings or commercial use. The best brick pizza ovens offer ample space, accommodating various sizes of pizzas and other dishes, enhancing versatility in cooking.
- Design and Aesthetics: The best brick pizza ovens often boast traditional designs that add charm to any outdoor space or kitchen. These ovens come in various styles, from rustic to modern, allowing homeowners to choose one that complements their aesthetic preferences while also being functional.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly features, such as easy access to the cooking chamber and simple temperature controls, enhance the overall experience. The best ovens are designed to be easy to operate, allowing both novice and experienced cooks to achieve great results without extensive training.
- Versatility: While primarily designed for pizza, the best brick ovens can often handle a variety of other foods, including bread, roasted meats, and vegetables. This versatility makes them a valuable addition to any outdoor cooking setup, expanding culinary possibilities beyond just pizza.
What Types of Brick Pizza Ovens Are Available on the Market?
The main types of brick pizza ovens available on the market include:
- Wood-Fired Brick Ovens: These ovens are built primarily from firebricks and are designed to be heated using wood as fuel. They provide a traditional cooking experience, imparting a unique smoky flavor to the pizza, and can reach high temperatures, ideal for cooking Neapolitan-style pizzas in just a few minutes.
- Gas-Fired Brick Ovens: Gas-fired ovens combine the traditional brick structure with gas fuel sources for heating. They offer the convenience of quick temperature control and consistent heat without the need for managing wood, making them a popular choice for both home cooks and commercial pizzerias.
- Hybrid Brick Ovens: These versatile ovens can use both wood and gas for fuel, allowing users to choose their preferred cooking method. They provide the best of both worlds, enabling the authentic flavor of wood-fired cooking while also offering the ease of gas operation for those who may prefer it.
- Portable Brick Ovens: Designed for mobility, portable brick ovens are often smaller and lighter, making them easy to transport for outdoor events or gatherings. Despite their size, they can still reach high temperatures, allowing for excellent pizza cooking capabilities while being user-friendly for casual settings.
- Built-In Brick Ovens: These ovens are integrated into outdoor kitchens or patios, providing a permanent cooking solution. They are often custom-built, allowing homeowners to design an oven that fits their space and aesthetic, and can be fueled by wood, gas, or both, depending on the design.
How Do Home Brick Pizza Ovens Compare to Commercial Options?
| Aspect | Home Brick Ovens | Commercial Brick Ovens |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Generally lower, ranging from $500 to $2,000. | Higher investment, often $3,000 and above. |
| Size | Compact designs suitable for backyards. | Larger models designed for high-volume cooking. |
| Performance | Good for personal use; heats up to 700°F. | Exceptional heat retention; can exceed 900°F for faster cooking. |
| Ease of Use | More user-friendly for novices; requires minimal setup. | May require professional installation and training for optimal use. |
| Weight and Portability | Generally lighter; easy to move. | Heavier; typically stationary. |
| Fuel Types | Often wood, gas, or charcoal. | Primarily gas or wood, with some electric options. |
| Cooking Time | Takes longer; usually 8-12 minutes per pizza. | Faster; often 2-5 minutes per pizza. |
| Durability and Material Quality | Built for occasional use; may use lighter materials. | Constructed for frequent use; typically built with high-quality, durable materials. |
Which Brands Are Renowned for Producing the Best Brick Pizza Ovens?
Several brands are renowned for producing the best brick pizza ovens:
- Ooni: Ooni is well-known for its portable and high-performance pizza ovens that can reach temperatures up to 932°F, allowing for authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas in just 60 seconds. Their ovens are designed for easy setup and use, making them popular among both home cooks and professional chefs.
- Roccbox: The Roccbox is a versatile outdoor pizza oven that combines a stainless steel exterior with a stone baking surface, producing excellent heat retention for pizza cooking. It can be fueled by gas or wood, offering flexibility for different cooking styles, and is praised for its compact design and portability.
- Camp Chef: Camp Chef offers a range of brick pizza ovens that are designed for outdoor use, featuring a wood-fired option that enhances flavor and authenticity. Their ovens are built with durable materials and include features such as temperature gauges and adjustable vents for better heat management.
- La Panyol: La Panyol specializes in traditional wood-fired pizza ovens made from high-quality refractory materials that ensure optimal heat distribution and retention. Their ovens are customizable and often used in professional settings, providing a traditional cooking experience that pizza enthusiasts appreciate.
- Alfa Ovens: Alfa Ovens combines Italian craftsmanship with modern technology to create high-quality pizza ovens that can reach cooking temperatures quickly. Their range includes both residential and commercial models, which feature innovative designs and efficient heat management for perfect pizza results.
How Much Should You Expect to Pay for a Quality Brick Pizza Oven?
The cost of a quality brick pizza oven can vary significantly based on several factors, including size, design, and brand.
- Entry-Level Models: Prices typically range from $1,500 to $3,000, offering a compact design with basic features suitable for home use.
- Mid-Range Models: These ovens generally cost between $3,000 and $6,000, providing better materials, larger cooking surfaces, and enhanced heat retention for serious enthusiasts.
- High-End Models: Expect to spend anywhere from $6,000 to $15,000 or more for professional-grade ovens, which are built to withstand heavy usage and often come with custom options.
- Custom-Built Ovens: Prices can vary greatly, typically starting around $10,000 and going up, depending on the materials and design chosen for a fully personalized option.
- Portable Options: These smaller, often wood-fired ovens range from $300 to $1,500, making them a budget-friendly choice for those who want to enjoy homemade pizza without a large investment.
Entry-level models are ideal for casual users who want a taste of brick oven pizza without committing to a large expense. They often come with basic features and a smaller cooking area, making them suitable for smaller gatherings.
Mid-range models improve on the entry level by providing more robust construction, larger cooking surfaces, and better heat retention, which allows for more efficient cooking and a higher-quality pizza. These are perfect for avid home cooks who wish to elevate their pizza-making experience.
High-end models are designed for serious pizza aficionados and commercial use, featuring superior materials, advanced heat distribution, and larger capacities. These ovens are typically built to last and can produce restaurant-quality pizzas consistently.
Custom-built ovens are tailored to individual specifications, which can significantly increase the cost based on the materials selected (like brick, stone, or steel) and the design desired. They offer the ultimate in personalization, allowing the owner to create a unique centerpiece for their outdoor kitchen.
Portable options are a great choice for those who want the experience of a brick pizza oven in a smaller, more manageable size. They are easy to transport and set up, making them perfect for tailgating, camping, or backyard parties, while still providing excellent heat for cooking pizza.
What Are the Advantages of Cooking with a Brick Pizza Oven?
The advantages of cooking with a brick pizza oven are numerous and contribute to the quality and flavor of the pizza.
- High Heat Retention: Brick pizza ovens can reach temperatures of up to 900°F, which is essential for achieving the perfect crust. The materials used in these ovens retain heat evenly, allowing for consistent cooking throughout the pizza.
- Authentic Flavor: Cooking in a brick oven imparts a unique smoky flavor that cannot be replicated in conventional ovens. The intense heat caramelizes the sugars in the dough, enhancing the overall taste and texture of the pizza.
- Fast Cooking Time: A brick pizza oven cooks pizzas in a matter of minutes due to its high temperatures. This rapid cooking time not only improves the efficiency of making multiple pizzas but also helps lock in moisture, resulting in a perfectly cooked pie.
- Versatility: While primarily used for pizza, brick ovens can also bake bread, roast meats, and cook a variety of other dishes. This versatility makes them a valuable addition to any outdoor kitchen or restaurant setting.
- Community and Experience: Cooking with a brick pizza oven often becomes a communal activity, bringing family and friends together. The process of making pizza from scratch and using a traditional oven creates a unique culinary experience that enhances enjoyment and interaction.
How Do You Properly Maintain a Brick Pizza Oven for Longevity?
Proper maintenance of a brick pizza oven is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your brick pizza oven clean is vital for maintaining its efficiency. Regularly removing ash and debris from the oven’s interior helps prevent buildup that can affect heat distribution and flavor.
- Temperature Management: Properly managing the temperature during use is crucial for the longevity of the oven. Avoiding rapid temperature changes can prevent cracking in the brick and mortar, ensuring that the structure remains intact over time.
- Sealing the Exterior: Sealing the exterior of your brick pizza oven protects it from the elements and moisture. Applying a high-quality sealant helps prevent water infiltration, which can cause damage and deterioration to the bricks.
- Routine Inspections: Conducting routine inspections of the oven allows you to identify potential issues early. Checking for cracks, loose bricks, or signs of wear ensures that you can address problems before they require significant repairs.
- Covering During Off-Season: When not in use, covering your brick pizza oven with a weather-resistant cover helps protect it from rain, snow, and UV rays. This simple step can prolong the life of the oven by preventing moisture buildup and sun damage.
- Using Quality Fuel: The type of fuel you use can affect the condition of your oven. Opting for high-quality wood or charcoal can lead to better combustion and less soot buildup, maintaining the integrity of the oven’s interior over time.