Portable Pizza Oven Versatility: What Else Can You Cook Besides Pizza?

Pizza ovens can do so much more than bake pies. In fact, a high-temperature portable pizza oven like the Ember 12 can cook meats, vegetables, bread, and even desserts. This opens up a whole new level of outdoor cooking possibilities—whether you’re at home, camping, or tailgating.

Why Your Portable Pizza Oven Shouldn’t Be a One-Trick Tool

1. Steak with a Smoky Crust

Ingredients: Ribeye or sirloin steak, olive oil, salt, pepper

Steps:

  • Rub steak with oil, salt and pepper.
  • Preheat oven to 850°F.
  • Sear steak in cast iron pan for 1–2 minutes per side.
  • Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

2. Roasted Vegetables

Ingredients: Zucchini, peppers, mushrooms, olive oil, Italian herbs

Steps:

  • Chop vegetables and mix with oil and herbs.
  • Spread in cast iron skillet.
  • Roast in pizza oven for 10–15 minutes, stir once halfway.

3. Garlic Flatbread or Naan

Ingredients: Pizza dough, garlic butter, chopped parsley

Steps:

  • Roll dough thin and brush with garlic butter.
  • Bake on stone at 700–800°F for 2–3 minutes.
  • Sprinkle parsley when done.

4. Cast Iron Skillet Brownies or S’mores

Ingredients: Brownie batter OR chocolate, marshmallows, graham crackers

Steps:

  • Pour batter or layer s’mores ingredients into cast iron pan.
  • Use residual heat (around 400–500°F) for 10–12 minutes.

5. Cedar-Plank Salmon

Ingredients: Salmon fillet, lemon slices, herbs, cedar plank (soaked)

Steps:

  • Soak plank for 1 hour.
  • Lay salmon with lemon/herbs on plank.
  • Place on cooler side of oven, cook 12–15 minutes.

6. Breakfast Hash with Eggs

Ingredients: Potatoes, sausage, onions, eggs, cheese (optional)

Steps:

  • Cook diced potatoes, onions, sausage in skillet.
  • Crack in eggs, top with cheese.
  • Finish in oven for 6–8 minutes at 700°F.

7. Baked Brie with Honey and Walnuts

Ingredients: Brie cheese, honey, crushed walnuts, bread

Steps:

  • Score top of brie, place in small dish.
  • Bake at 600–700°F for 5–7 minutes.
  • Top with honey & walnuts, serve with bread.

FAQ: What Else Can You Cook in a Pizza Oven?

Q: Can I cook steak in a wood-fired pizza oven?

A: Absolutely. The Ember 12’s 850°F oven chamber is well-suited for searing and roasting meat, but it does require some experience to control timing and doneness precisely. Using a cast iron pan helps retain heat and manage flare-ups.

Q: Do I need special tools for non-pizza food?

A: A cast iron pan, pizza peel, and heat-proof gloves are helpful.

Q: Will flavors mix between dishes?

A: Clean the stone or use a tray to prevent flavor crossover.

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