Pizza Oven Temperature Guide: How to Achieve the Perfect Bake
XO Key Takeaways:
- Neapolitan pizzas: 800°–900°F, baked in 90 seconds.
- Home ovens: 500°–550°F for 8–12 minutes.
- Always preheat, use a pizza stone or steel, and monitor closely.
- 375°–400°F will work—but leads to softer crusts and longer bake times.
Are you tired of feeling disappointed in your quest for the perfect pie? Achieving a flawless pizza bake at home is possible—it hinges on mastering your pizza oven’s temperature.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner home cook, understanding your ideal oven temp is the secret to that golden, crunchy crust and gooey toppings. Let’s fire up the oven and unlock the perfect pizza experience—one slice at a time.
The Optimal Pizza Oven Temperatures
Wood-fired ovens: 800°F–900°F (427°C–482°C). High heat ensures a crisp exterior and moist, airy interior. Bake time: about 90 seconds.
Conventional ovens: 500°F–550°F (260°C–288°C). Bake time: 8–12 minutes. These are perfect for chewy, crisp crusts in a home kitchen setting.
Temperature Recommendations for Different Pizza Styles
- Neapolitan: 900°F (482°C), 60–90 seconds
- New York-style: 500°F–600°F (260°–316°C), 8–12 minutes
- Chicago deep-dish: 425°F–450°F (218°C–232°C), 20–25 minutes
Matching the style with the right temperature ensures crisp crusts, bubbly cheese, and delicious results.
Our Most Common Questions About Pizza Oven Temperatures
How long to cook pizza at 450°F?
About 10–12 minutes. This balances crisp crust with melty toppings.
Should pizza be baked at 375°F or 400°F?
You can, but it may lead to softer crust and soggier dough. For best results, use 450°F–500°F.
Should I really bake my pizza at 500°F?
Yes. This temp creates the best balance of crust texture and topping melt. Use a pizza stone or steel for enhanced results if your oven doesn’t reach wood-fired levels.
Enhancing Your Pizza Baking Experience
- Preheat fully: Always preheat your oven to the correct temp before baking.
- Use a pizza stone or steel: Retains heat, mimics traditional ovens, and improves crust texture.
- Watch your timing: Especially important with high-heat ovens to prevent burning.
XO Appliance Pizza Ovens: Balance Performance with Precision
Explore our Italian-made pizza ovens crafted for enthusiasts and pros alike:
- XOPIZZA2FSCA: Freestanding wood-fired oven, perfect for New York-style pies up to 500°F.
- XOPIZZA4H: Hybrid wood & gas oven, 51,000 BTU for full-flavor flexibility and performance.
Discover the XO Difference in Every Slice
Perfect pizza starts with the perfect temperature. Whether you’re cooking with wood, gas, or a traditional kitchen oven, understanding the correct temp unlocks artisan flavor and elevated crusts every time.
XO Appliance brings Italian craftsmanship and precision to your outdoor space. Explore our line of premium pizza ovens and transform your home into a pizzeria paradise.