Ooni Detroit Pizza Pan Review: A Deep Dive

Crafting the perfect Detroit-style pizza hinges on having the right tools, and the Ooni Detroit Pizza Pan promises just that. This review delves into the pan's performance, from initial unboxing to the final, delicious slice, comparing its features and results to other options on the market. The non-stick surface and included steel shield are highlighted, addressing key concerns for home pizzaiolos.For those seeking a deeper dive into the world of professional-grade pizza pans, exploring various options to find the perfect fit for their culinary needs is essential. You might find helpful resources in articles comparing high-end pizza pans, such as those found on sites dedicated to kitchen equipment reviews. For example, check out this excellent resource on premium pizza pans: It helps broaden the perspective on the Ooni pan within the larger context of commercial-quality baking equipment.

Pros And Cons

Only Spatula Detroit Style Pizza Pan
  • Nice size
  • Comes with a steel lid to protect toppings during cooking
  • Allows the base to cook over a longer time without burning toppings (due to lower cooking temperature)
  • Withstands temperatures up to 370°
  • Has a nonstick coating
  • Seems solid and well-made
  • May be slightly more expensive than comparable pans

Read more: Lloydpans vs Detroit Style Pizza Co Detroit - Which Pans Are Better?

Unboxing and First Impressions

The Ooni Detroit Pizza Pan arrived, promising a superior Detroit-style pizza experience. The packaging was simple yet effective, protecting the pan during transit. Initial impressions were positive; the pan felt sturdy and well-constructed. The included steel shield is a thoughtful addition, protecting toppings from burning.

Empty Ooni Detroit pizza pan
Empty Ooni Detroit pizza pan

The pan's size is generous, suitable for creating impressive Detroit-style pizzas. The non-stick coating is a welcome feature, promising easy cleanup. A direct comparison with another Detroit-style pan (from WD's Pans) highlighted the size difference and the distinct construction methods. The Ooni pan seemed slightly more expensive but the non-stick surface is a key advantage.

Pizza Making Process

Preparing the pizza involved generously oiling the pan to ensure a crispy crust. The soft dough was carefully placed into the pan and allowed to settle for ten minutes. After settling, it's spread evenly across the surface ensuring full coverage of the pan.

Oiling pizza pan for crispy crust
Oiling pizza pan for crispy crust
Adding cheese to Detroit-style pizza
Adding cheese to Detroit-style pizza

Cheese was generously layered, focusing on the corners for that signature Detroit-style cheesy pull. Roasted vegetables were added for extra flavor, then a line of tomato sauce completed the preparation before adding the steel shield.

Detroit-style pizza: cheese and veggie base
Detroit-style pizza: cheese and veggie base

Cooking and Results

Baking the pizza took around 10 minutes at 370°F (187°C), requiring turning every two minutes for even cooking. The steel shield played its role in protecting the toppings from direct heat. After the initial bake, the top of the pizza was browned further to achieve the perfect crisp and color.

Pizza baking in wood-fired oven
Pizza baking in wood-fired oven
Pizza oven baking pizza at high temperature.
Pizza oven baking pizza at high temperature.

The non-stick coating performed exceptionally well, allowing for effortless removal of the cooked pizza from the pan. The final product was visually appealing, with a beautifully browned crust and bubbly cheese. A slice revealed a perfectly cooked interior, confirming the pan's excellent heat distribution

Delicious baked vegetable pizza, perfectly browned.
Delicious baked vegetable pizza, perfectly browned.

Conclusion and Verdict

The Ooni Detroit Pizza Pan is a high-quality pan that delivers excellent results, producing truly delicious Detroit-style pizzas. The non-stick surface makes cleanup a breeze, and the included steel shield is a valuable feature.

Delicious Detroit-style pizza.
Delicious Detroit-style pizza.

While the £60 price point is a significant investment, its quality, performance, and ease of use make it a worthwhile purchase for serious Detroit-style pizza enthusiasts. Compared to other available pans, the Ooni Detroit Pizza Pan excels in its overall quality and the added benefits of the steel shield and its non-stick surface.

Delicious Detroit-style pizza crust
Delicious Detroit-style pizza crust