Black & Decker Pizza Oven

The Black & Decker BPZ123TS Pizza Oven is a game-changer for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. As a seasoned DIYer and outdoor cook, I was eager to put this pizza oven through its paces and see if it lived up to its promising features. Spoiler alert: it did, and then some.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that caught my eye about the Black & Decker pizza oven was its robust and well-thought-out design. At a hefty 50.8 pounds, the oven is solid and feels durable right out of the box. The build quality is excellent, with a sleek, stainless-steel exterior that promises longevity and resilience against the elements. The folding legs are a nice touch, making the oven portable enough to move around but stable when set up.

Versatility in Fuel Options

One of the standout features of this pizza oven is its ability to use multiple fuel types: wood, charcoal, or wood pellets. This versatility is a boon for any outdoor cook, allowing me to choose the fuel that best suits my cooking style and the flavor profile I aim to achieve. During my tests, I found that wood pellets provided the most consistent heat and imparted a delightful smoky flavor to the pizzas.

Ease of Setup and Use

Setting up the oven was straightforward, thanks to clear and concise instructions. The process took me about 30 minutes, and I appreciated that all necessary tools were included in the package. Once assembled, getting the oven up to cooking temperature was impressively quick. The built-in thermometer is a practical feature, allowing me to monitor the temperature effortlessly. The oven heats up to a scorching 950°F in just 15 minutes, making it ready for pizza in no time.

Cooking Performance

The cooking performance of the Black & Decker pizza oven is where it truly shines. The rotating pizza stone ensures even cooking, eliminating any hot spots that could lead to unevenly cooked pizzas. I was able to cook a 12-inch pizza in just about 60 seconds, which is remarkably fast. The glass window on the front of the oven is a thoughtful addition, allowing me to keep an eye on the pizza without opening the door and losing heat.

The handle for manually rotating the pizza stone is a clever feature, though an automated version would be a welcome upgrade. However, the manual process is smooth and easy, ensuring that the pizza cooks evenly on all sides.

Convenience and Practicality

The Black & Decker pizza oven is not just about performance but also convenience. The ash bucket is easy to slide in and out, making cleanup a breeze. Adding fuel is uncomplicated, with a straightforward method for dropping pellets through the top of the chamber. The fire spreads evenly throughout the oven, maintaining a consistent cooking environment.

The portable design, complete with folding legs, means the oven can easily be stored away or transported to different locations. This makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy cooking in various outdoor settings, from backyard gatherings to camping trips.

Optional Stand

Although the pizza oven can be used without a stand, I found that pairing it with the Black & Decker stand significantly enhances the cooking experience. The stand is adjustable in height, sturdy, and comes with ample storage space, including shelves and hooks for pizza peels. The wheels add mobility, allowing me to move the oven around effortlessly, and lock securely to keep everything in place during cooking.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Black & Decker BPZ123TS Pizza Oven is a stellar addition to any outdoor cooking setup. Its versatility, ease of use, and superior cooking performance make it a standout product in the market. The ability to use multiple fuel types adds flexibility, while the rotating pizza stone and high-temperature capabilities ensure restaurant-quality pizzas in the comfort of your backyard.

I wholeheartedly recommend this pizza oven to anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking game. Its combination of practical features, thoughtful design, and exceptional performance make it a worthy investment for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike. Whether you're hosting a backyard pizza night or taking it on a camping trip, the Black & Decker pizza oven is sure to impress.