How To Host The Perfect Pizza Party With a Wood-Fired Pizza Oven

You can easily host a backyard pizza party where everyone becomes a pizzaiolo and creates their own homemade pizza. All you need is a Cru Ovens wood-fired pizza oven and a little planning to transform your backyard into a pizzeria.

Read on to learn how to host the best pizza party with Cru Ovens. Prepare to wow your friends and family with an unforgettable experience!

The Dough Debate: Make Your Own Pizza Dough or Use Store Bought?

The first step in planning your wood-fired pizza party is deciding whether to make your own dough or use store-bought. Choosing between the two can take time and effort. Both have pros and cons, so let’s weigh them out.

The Homemade Pizza Dough Way

Kneading and shaping your own pizza dough can be super satisfying. It lets you customize ingredients and adds a personal touch that will impress your guests!

However, making dough from scratch can be time-consuming, especially with a big crowd. Mixing, kneading, proofing, and resting can take several hours or even days.

If you’re up for the challenge, here’s a simple Neapolitan-style dough recipe for up to 10 personal pizzas:

Ingredients:

• 7 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

• 3 3/4 cups warm water

• 2 1/2 teaspoons sugar

• 3 3/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (about 1 1/2 packets)

• 2 1/2 teaspoons sea salt

• 3/4 cup olive oil

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy.

2. Make the Dough: Combine flour and salt in a large bowl. Make a well, and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until it forms a dough.

3. Knead: On a floured surface, knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If preferred, use a stand mixer for 5-7 minutes.

4. First Rise: Shape into a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1.5 to 2 hours until doubled.

5. Prepare for the Party: Refrigerate overnight or freeze in 10 individual balls for later use.

Aside from basic pizza dough, you can explore various types to achieve your desired pizza crust:

• New York-Style Pizza Dough

• Sicilian Pizza Dough

• Chicago Deep Dish Dough

• Sourdough Pizza Dough

• Gluten-free Pizza Dough

The Store Bought Shortcut

If making dough from scratch isn’t your thing or you’re short on time, don’t worry! Pre-made pizza dough or dough balls from grocery stores or specialty shops are fantastic time-savers.

While it might lack the homemade charm, it still delivers delicious pizza, especially when topped with quality ingredients and baked in a wood-fired oven.

So, what’s your pick: homemade or store-bought? It’s all about your preference, time, and how hands-on you want to be with the pizza-making process.

Different Pizza Sauces and Cheese

The beauty of hosting your own pizza party is you can offer different sauces and cheeses to suit everyone’s taste.

Here are some popular options:

Sauces

• Classic Tomato Sauce: A staple, whether homemade or jarred.

• Pesto: Fresh basil or arugula pesto adds a vibrant flavor, perfect with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

• Garlic Cream Sauce: Rich and creamy, great with mushrooms, spinach, or prosciutto.

• Barbecue Sauce: Tangy and bold, it pairs well with chicken, bacon, and caramelized onions.

• Alfredo Sauce: Creamy and decadent, ideal with chicken and spinach.

• Buffalo Sauce: Spicy and tangy, perfect for a kick of heat.

• Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds a sweet and spicy kick, great with chicken or shrimp.

• Ranch Dressing: A fun twist that pairs well with bacon, chicken, and fresh veggies.

• Vodka Sauce: Creamy with a hint of tanginess, perfect for a rich and flavorful base.

Cheeses

• Mozzarella: Classic choice, available fresh or shredded.

• Parmesan: Adds a sharp, nutty touch.

• Feta: Tangy and creamy, crumbled for a surprise.

• Goat Cheese: Spreadable and rich for a unique twist.

• Gorgonzola: Strong and flavorful, great with sweet or savory toppings.

• Provolone: Melts beautifully and adds a mild, smoky flavor.

• Ricotta: Creamy and mild, excellent with vegetables and herbs.

• Fontina: Semi-soft with a strong flavor, great for melting.

• Gruyère: Nutty and smooth, adds a sophisticated touch.

• Havarti: Mild and creamy, melts well, and adds a buttery flavor.

• Asiago: Sharp and tangy, perfect for adding a zesty kick.

• Blue Cheese: Bold and tangy, it adds a distinctive flavor perfect with fruits and nuts.

Setting Up Your Topping Station

Once you’ve sorted out the dough and sauces, it’s time to turn your attention to the toppings. Set up a well-stocked topping station for your pizza party and offer a variety of toppings to suit different dietary tastes and preferences.

Classic Toppings

Old-school toppings are a must-have. Here are the classics:

• Pepperoni: A fan favorite with a spicy kick.

• Salami: Adds a robust, savory flavor.

• Italian Sausage: Crumbled for a hearty topping.

• Mushrooms: Earthy and delicious, a classic choice.

• Chicken: Versatile and protein-packed.

• Bell Peppers: Sweet and colorful, adds crunch.

• Onions: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth.

• Red Pepper: For a hint of spice and color.

• Olives: Salty and tangy, perfect for adding a bite.

• Pineapple: For those who like a sweet twist!

• Steak: Tender and juicy, adds a rich, savory flavor.

Make sure to prep these toppings properly for the best flavor and texture. Pre-cook any meat toppings so they’re ready to go. Slice or dice vegetables into bite-sized pieces for easy distribution on the pizza.

Adventurous Toppings

Don’t be afraid to get wild and offer unique options to mix things up. Here are a few to get you started:

• Anchovies: These salty fish add a punch of umami flavor.

• Sun-dried Tomatoes: Sweet and chewy, they bring a delightful texture and taste.

• Artichoke Hearts: Marinated hearts offer a Mediterranean twist.

• Prosciutto: Thin, salty Italian ham for an upscale touch.

• Roasted Garlic: Sweet, mellow flavor from whole cloves.

• Fresh Herbs: Basil, rosemary, oregano, and thyme for a burst of aromatic freshness.

• Truffle Oil: Adds an earthy, luxurious flavor.

• Fig Jam: Sweet and rich, perfect for pairing with cheese and prosciutto.

• Pine Nuts: Crunchy and nutty, great with savory toppings.

• Capers: Tangy and briny, they add a zesty kick.

• Peaches: Sweet and juicy, they pair wonderfully with prosciutto and goat cheese.

• Shrimp: Tender and succulent, adds a touch of the sea.

Consider organizing your pizza toppings by theme, such as seasonal or regional varieties, to inspire your guests to experiment and try new flavor combinations.

Pizza Party Side Dishes

No pizza party is complete without tasty sides or appetizers! Here are some great options to complement your wood-fired pizzas:

• Salads: Refresh with a crisp Caesar, Greek salad with feta and olives, or a mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

• Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: Classic sides for dipping in leftover sauce or pesto.

• Antipasto Platter: An Italian assortment of cured meats, marinated vegetables, olives, and crusty bread.

• Roasted Veggies: Healthy and delicious options like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers.

• Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers for a colorful, refreshing treat.

• Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs.

• Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil.

• Macaroni and Cheese: Comforting and creamy, a favorite for kids and adults alike.

Pizza Party Beverages

Make sure your drink menu complements the pizza perfectly:

Alcoholic Beverages

• Wines: Crisp white or bold red wines to match different pizza flavors.

• Craft Beers: IPAs and stouts are great for balancing decadent toppings.

• Signature Cocktails: Try a Negroni, Aperol Spritz, or creative pizza-themed cocktails like a Margherita Margarita or Pepperoni Paloma.

Non-Alcoholic Beverages

• Water: Always a must-have.

• Soda: Classic and refreshing.

• Homemade Lemonade or Iced Tea: Sweet and Cooling.

• Infused Waters: Fresh fruits, herbs, or vegetables for a fancy, healthy twist.

• Mocktails: Fun non-alcoholic options like a Virgin Mojito or a Shirley Temple.

Set Up Interactive Pizza-Making Stations

Make your pizza party a hit by setting up interactive stations. Start with a dough station where guests shape their dough, then move to a sauce station for sauce choices. Next, have a topping station with prepped ingredients. After topping their pizzas, guests can slide them into the Cru oven with a pizza peel and watch them cook! Finally, set up a serving area with pizza cutters. To keep things flowing smoothly, set up multiple stations for each step so everyone can enjoy the fun and create great pizza!

Setting Up Your Cru Ovens Wood-Fired Pizza Oven 

Start your pizza party with the perfect gear: a Cru Ovens wood-fired pizza oven. It is designed to mimic traditional Italian brick ovens. It delivers a crispy crust and smoky flavor that can’t be matched.

Preparing Your Pizza Oven

1. Choose a Location: Find an outdoor spot with wind protection and proper safety clearances.

2. Assemble and Cure: Follow the assembly and curing instructions to gradually heat your oven to cooking temperatures.

3. Gather Fuel: Stock up on seasoned hardwood logs or chunks for varied flavors.

4. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 700°F–900°F well before your party.

Safety Tips

• Wear Protective Gear: Use heat-resistant gloves, an apron, and closed-toe shoes.

• Have a Fire Extinguisher: Keep one nearby for emergencies.

• Supervise Children: Ensure kids stay away from the hot oven.

• Follow Guidelines: Adhere to Cru Ovens’ safety instructions for safe use and maintenance.

Creating The Right Ambiance For Your Cru Ovens Pizza Party

The right ambiance can take your pizza party from good to great! Furthermore, a party is about more than just eating – you want to create an experience your guests will remember for years.

Here are some tips to set the mood:

Decorations

• Rustic Charm: Use burlap runners, mason jars, and wooden accents to complement your wood-fired oven.

• Italian Touch: Incorporate checkered tablecloths, mini Italian flags, or a Vespa scooter prop.

• Greenery and Flowers: Add fresh plants and flowers for a natural touch.

• Lighting: String lights, lanterns, or candles can create a cozy atmosphere for pizza night. Outdoor heaters or a fire pit can keep guests warm.

• Seating: Opt for picnic blankets or outdoor lounge furniture for a relaxed vibe at your dinner party.

Music

• Make a Playlist: Create a playlist for the party. Italian pop, classic rock, or fun, upbeat tunes to get your guests in the mood.

• Live Entertainment: If your budget allows, hire a DJ, live musician, or band for a real show.

Activities

• Pizza-Making Contests: Encourage friendly cooking pizza competitions with contests for the most creative or best pizza.

• Outdoor Games: Set up lawn games like cornhole, bocce ball, or giant Jenga between pizza courses.

• Photo Booth: Create a fun photo booth with props and backdrops for your guests to take pictures.

With some planning and the right outdoor pizza oven, like a Cru Ovens wood oven, you can create an event your guests will be begging to come to the next one. But don’t forget the most important thing, have fun, it’s a party!