If you love making homemade pizza, a pizza stone is a must-have tool for achieving a crispy, evenly cooked crust—just like a professional pizzeria. Whether you’re baking in an oven or grilling outdoors, the right pizza stone ensures even heat distribution, absorbs excess moisture, and helps create that perfect golden-brown base.
But with so many options available, how do you choose the best pizza stone for your grill and oven? In this guide, we’ll explore the top-rated pizza stones, compare their features, and help you find the perfect one for your cooking needs. Keep reading for expert recommendations, a detailed buying guide, and tips to get the best results from your pizza stone!
If you love homemade pizza, a pizza stone is a game-changer. It helps create that crispy, golden-brown crust—just like your favorite pizzeria. Whether you’re using an oven or a grill, the right pizza stone ensures even cooking, absorbs excess moisture, and delivers delicious results every time.
But with so many options, how do you pick the best pizza stone for your grill and oven? In this guide, we’ll break down the top-rated options, key features to consider, and expert tips to get the most out of your pizza stone.
Benefits of using a pizza stone:
Ever wondered why restaurant pizza has that crispy, golden crust, while homemade pizza often turns out soggy or unevenly cooked? The secret isn’t just in the recipe—it’s in the baking surface.
A pizza stone is a game-changer for making perfect pizza at home. Whether you’re using a grill, oven, or even a smoker, a pizza stone helps you get pizzeria-quality results with minimal effort. In this guide, we’ll break down the top benefits of using a pizza stone, why it beats a regular baking sheet, and how it enhances flavor, texture, and overall cooking performance.
1. Crispy Crust Every Time
One of the biggest pizza problems people face is a soft, soggy crust. That’s because metal trays and baking sheets don’t absorb moisture well.
A pizza stone fixes this by pulling moisture away from the dough, helping it bake evenly. The result? A light, crispy, golden-brown crust—just like your favorite pizza joint.
✅ Pro Tip: Preheat your pizza stone for at least 30 minutes at 450°F before placing the pizza on it. This helps achieve the best crispiness.
2. Even Heat Distribution = No More Hot Spots
Ever had a pizza where one side was burnt and the other was underbaked? That happens because ovens and grills don’t always distribute heat evenly.
A pizza stone is made of materials like cordierite, ceramic, or clay, which hold and distribute heat evenly across the entire surface. This ensures that every inch of your pizza bakes at the same rate.
🔥 Why It Matters:
- No more burnt edges or undercooked centers
- Cheese melts evenly across the pizza
- Consistent results every time
3. High Heat Retention for Faster Cooking
Most home ovens and grills lose heat every time you open the door. A pizza stone acts as a heat reservoir, maintaining a high temperature even when you check on your pizza.
🔥 Benefits:
- Speeds up cooking time (ready in 8-12 minutes instead of 15-20!)
- Gives you a charred, wood-fired flavor without a pizza oven
- Works great for other high-heat recipes like bread, cookies, and even roasted veggies
✅ Pro Tip: For a true brick-oven taste, use a cordierite pizza stone on a charcoal or gas grill.
4. No More Sticking – Easy to Use & Clean
Unlike metal pans, a properly seasoned pizza stone prevents dough from sticking. Just sprinkle some cornmeal or flour before placing your pizza on the stone, and it will slide off smoothly.
💡 Cleaning is simple too:
- Let the stone cool completely before washing
- Never use soap (it absorbs flavors!)
- Just wipe it with a damp cloth or use a stiff brush for stubborn spots
✅ Pro Tip: Over time, your pizza stone will develop a dark patina—this is a good thing! It enhances flavor and improves non-stick properties.
5. Works in Ovens, Grills, and Even Campfires
A pizza stone isn’t just for ovens—you can use it on a:
✔ Gas grill (adds a smoky flavor)
✔ Charcoal grill (creates a crispy, slightly charred crust)
✔ Smoker (infuses a unique wood-fired taste)
✔ Campfire (perfect for outdoor pizza nights!)
🔥 Why This is a Game-Changer:
- No need for an expensive pizza oven
- Take it anywhere—great for backyard BBQs or camping trips
- Makes more than just pizza (bread, quesadillas, roasted meats, etc.)
✅ Pro Tip: If using a pizza stone on a grill, heat it up gradually to prevent thermal shock (which can cause cracking).
6. Healthier & Better-Tasting Pizza
Believe it or not, using a pizza stone can actually make your pizza healthier.
Here’s how:
✔ Reduces excess moisture = less greasy pizza
✔ Cooks at higher temperatures = less reliance on oily pans
✔ Brings out the natural flavors of fresh ingredients
And let’s be real—homemade pizza is always healthier than takeout. You control the ingredients, the dough, and the toppings, making it a better choice for your family.
7. Long-Lasting & Cost-Effective
A good-quality pizza stone can last years, even decades if properly cared for. Unlike metal baking trays that warp over time, a pizza stone stays durable and gets better with age.
💰 Save money in the long run:
- No need to keep buying pizza pans
- Saves money on expensive takeout
- Works for multiple types of food
Pizza Stone vs. Pizza Pan: Key Differences
| Feature | Pizza Stone 🪨 | Pizza Pan 🍕 |
| Material | Usually made of cordierite, ceramic, or cast iron | Typically aluminum or stainless steel |
| Heat Retention | Absorbs and holds high heat for even cooking | Heats up quickly but loses heat faster |
| Crust Texture | Creates a crispy, golden-brown crust by absorbing moisture | Can result in a softer, slightly doughy crust |
| Cooking Time | Cooks faster due to high heat retention | Slightly slower cooking time |
| Heat Distribution | Even heat distribution for consistent baking | May have hot spots, leading to uneven baking |
| Preheating Required? | ✅ Yes, needs to be preheated for best results | ❌ No preheating needed, just place pizza and bake |
| Best Cooking Method | Works well in ovens, grills, and even campfires | Best for oven baking only |
| Ease of Use | Requires preheating & careful handling | Simple to use, just place in the oven |
| Maintenance & Cleaning | Hand wash only (no soap); stains over time | Dishwasher safe and easy to clean |
| Durability | Long-lasting, can last decades if properly cared for | Can warp or get scratched over time |
| Versatility | Can be used for bread, cookies, and more | Mainly used for pizza & baked goods |
| Portability | Heavier and less portable | Lightweight and easy to store |
| Ideal For | Serious pizza lovers who want a restaurant-quality crust | Casual home cooks looking for a quick & easy method |
Top 5 Best Pizza Stones for Grill and Oven (Comparison Table)
| Product | Rating | Price | Action |
| Hans Grill Pizza Stone | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5) | $59.99 | Check on Amazon |
| Waykea Cordierite Pizza Stone | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5) | $27.99 | Check on Amazon |
| Hongso Pizza Baking Stone | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5) | $62.99 | Check on Amazon |
| Heritage 15″ Ceramic Pizza Stone | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5) | $27.99 | Check on Amazon |
| IMPRESA Pizza Baking Stone | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5) | $59.99 | Check on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews of the Best Pizza Stones
1. Hans Grill Pizza Stone – Best Overall
The Hans Grill Pizza Stone is renowned for its ability to deliver restaurant-quality pizzas at home. Crafted from durable cordierite, this stone ensures even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly crispy crusts. Its versatility allows it to be used in both ovens and grills, making it a favorite among pizza enthusiasts.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Retains heat well for even baking | Slightly heavy |
| Works in both oven and grill | Needs preheating for best results |
| Easy to clean with a scraper | May stain over time |
| Large enough for family-size pizzas | Doesn’t come with a storage case |
| Comes with a pizza cutter | Requires careful handling to avoid breakage |
2. Waykea Cordierite Pizza Stone – Best for Small Ovens
If you have a small oven or toaster oven, the Waykea Cordierite Pizza Stone is a great choice. It heats up quickly and delivers a crisp, golden crust.
Designed for those with limited oven space, the Waykea Cordierite Pizza Stone is perfect for toaster ovens and small grills. Its compact size doesn’t compromise its performance, delivering crispy and evenly cooked pizzas. The stone’s cordierite composition ensures durability and resistance to high temperatures.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Fits smaller ovens and grills | Not ideal for large pizzas |
| Durable cordierite material | Needs seasoning before first use |
| Withstands high temperatures | Requires extra care when handling |
| Affordable price | Doesn’t include accessories |
| Easy to clean | Can absorb moisture if not stored properly |
3. Hongso Pizza Baking Stone – Best for Kamado Grills
Designed for Kamado-style grills like Big Green Egg, the Hongso Pizza Baking Stone doubles as a heat deflector. Its robust construction ensures even heat distribution, perfect for baking pizzas, bread, and even roasting meats.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Designed for Kamado grills | Slightly expensive |
| Multi-purpose: pizza stone & heat deflector | Heavy compared to others |
| Thick and durable | May take longer to heat up |
| Retains heat well | Limited use outside Kamado grills |
| Great for low & high heat cooking | Can be tricky to clean |
4. Heritage Pizza Stone – Best for Versatility
The Heritage Pizza Stone is a durable, non-stick ceramic baking stone designed for both ovens and grills. It heats up faster than traditional cordierite stones and ensures a perfectly crispy crust without burning. The 15-inch surface provides ample space for large pizzas, and its non-stick coating makes cleanup effortless. This lightweight yet sturdy stone is heat-resistant up to 500°F, making it ideal for baking pizzas, bread, and more. Plus, it won’t stain or absorb odors, ensuring long-lasting performance in any kitchen.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Heats up faster than traditional cordierite stones. | Not suitable for extremely high temperatures above 500°F. |
| Non-stick coating prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. | May not develop the same “stone-seasoned” effect as uncoated stones. |
| Lightweight and easy to handle compared to heavier stones. | Surface may scratch if metal tools are used. |
| Doesn’t absorb stains or odors, keeping it fresh for every use. | Can be fragile if dropped or handled roughly. |
| Works well for both oven and grill baking. | Not as thick as some heavy-duty pizza stones, which may impact heat retention. |
5. IMPRESA Pizza Baking Stone – Best Budget Option
The IMPRESA Pizza Baking Stone offers a budget-friendly solution for pizza lovers. Its design caters to both ovens and grills, providing a crispy crust and evenly cooked toppings. Lightweight and easy to handle, it’s an excellent choice for beginners and casual cooks.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Budget-friendly | Not as thick as premium stones |
| Lightweight and easy to handle | May crack under extreme heat if not preheated properly |
| Works with most ovens and grills | Requires careful storage to prevent chipping |
| Great for beginners | Might absorb oils and stains |
| Even heat distribution | Doesn’t include any accessories |
How to Choose the Best Pizza Stone (A Simple Buying Guide)
A pizza stone is one of the best tools for making crispy, restaurant-style pizza at home. But with so many options, choosing the right one can be confusing.
Should you get ceramic, cordierite, or cast iron? What size do you need? Do thickness and shape matter?
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know before buying a pizza stone. Let’s find the perfect stone for your oven or grill! 🍕🔥
1. Choose the Right Material
Pizza stones come in different materials, and each has its pros and cons. Let’s compare:
✅ Cordierite (Best for Durability & High Heat)
- Highly durable—resists cracking under high heat
- Absorbs moisture for a crispy crust
- Handles extreme temperature changes (great for grills!)
- Best for: High-heat baking, frequent use
✅ Ceramic (Best for Even Cooking & Budget-Friendly)
- Even heat distribution = consistently baked pizza
- Affordable option for beginners
- Requires careful handling (can crack if dropped)
- Best for: Home ovens, casual pizza makers
✅ Cast Iron (Best for Quick Heating & Versatility)
- Heats up fast and retains heat well
- No preheating needed—just place it on the stove or oven
- Easy to clean and lasts forever
- Best for: Those who want a low-maintenance, heavy-duty option
✅ Steel (Best for Fast Cooking & Crispy Crusts)
- Conducts heat the fastest—ideal for crispy Neapolitan pizza
- Very durable but can be heavy and expensive
- Requires seasoning to prevent rust
- Best for: Pizza lovers who want a pizzeria-style crust
👉 Which material is best?
If you want durability, go with cordierite. For budget-friendly, even cooking, choose ceramic. If you want versatility, cast iron is a great pick. And for ultimate crispiness, go for steel.
2. Pick the Right Size & Shape
Pizza stones come in different sizes and shapes. The right one depends on your oven, grill, or cooking style.
✅ Round vs. Rectangular Pizza Stones
| Shape | Best For | Pros & Cons |
| Round 🍕 | Traditional pizza lovers | Fits most pizzas but limited space |
| Rectangular 📏 | Versatility (baking bread, veggies, more) | More cooking surface, fits multiple pizzas |
✅ What Size Should You Get?
- 12-inch to 14-inch: Perfect for small to medium ovens & grills
- 15-inch to 16-inch: Best for larger ovens and serious pizza makers
- Bigger than 16 inches: Great for commercial-style baking
👉 Pro Tip: Make sure your stone fits inside your oven or grill before buying!
3. Consider the Thickness (It Matters!)
Thickness affects heat retention, cooking time, and durability.
✅ Which Thickness is Best?
| Thickness | Pros | Cons | Best For |
| Under ½ inch | Heats up fast | Can crack easily | Light use, beginners |
| ½ inch – ¾ inch | Good balance of heat & durability | Requires preheating | Most home cooks |
| Over ¾ inch | Retains heat well, lasts longer | Heavy, longer preheat time | Serious pizza lovers |
👉 For most people, a ½-inch to ¾-inch stone is ideal. It gives crispy crusts without waiting forever to preheat.
4. Can It Handle High Temperatures?
If you’re using a grill or high-heat oven, you need a stone that can withstand extreme temperatures (over 700°F).
🔥 Best High-Heat Pizza Stones:
✅ Cordierite (up to 1,400°F!)
✅ Cast Iron (handles direct flames)
✅ Steel (quickest heat transfer)
🚫 Avoid thin ceramic stones for grilling—they can crack under high heat.
5. Is It Easy to Clean & Maintain?
A good pizza stone should be easy to clean and last for years. Here’s what to consider:
✅ Non-stick surface: Some stones naturally resist sticking over time.
✅ Soap-free cleaning: Never use soap—just wipe with a damp cloth.
✅ Crack-resistant: Cordierite and cast iron are more durable.
🚫 Avoid dishwasher cleaning—it can damage the stone.
6. Does It Work for More Than Just Pizza?
A great pizza stone should be versatile. Some can be used for:
✔ Bread & flatbreads
✔ Cookies & pastries
✔ Roasted veggies & meats
✔ Grilling steaks & fish
If you want multi-purpose use, go for a rectangular cordierite or cast iron stone.
7. Budget: How Much Should You Spend?
Pizza stones range from $20 to $150+ depending on size, material, and brand.
💰 Price Guide:
- $20 – $40: Basic ceramic or thin cordierite (good for beginners)
- $40 – $80: High-quality cordierite, cast iron, or steel (best value)
- $100+: Premium baking steels & thick pizza stones (for serious pizza makers)
👉 Pro Tip: A good mid-range cordierite stone ($40-$70) is perfect for most home cooks.
How to Properly Use a Pizza Stone
Using a pizza stone can elevate your homemade pizzas, giving them a crispy crust akin to those from a professional pizzeria. Here’s a straightforward guide on how to properly use a pizza stone:
1. Place the Pizza Stone in a Cold Oven
- Position your pizza stone on the lowest rack of your oven while it’s still cold. This prevents thermal shock, which can cause the stone to crack.
2. Preheat the Oven with the Stone Inside
- Set your oven to 500°F (or your desired temperature) and let it preheat thoroughly. The stone needs ample time to absorb heat, ensuring a crispy crust.
3. Prepare Your Pizza
- As the oven heats, assemble your pizza on a pizza peel or a rimless baking sheet dusted with flour or cornmeal. This helps in sliding the pizza onto the stone smoothly.
4. Transfer the Pizza onto the Hot Stone
- Carefully slide your prepared pizza onto the preheated stone using the pizza peel or baking sheet. Be cautious to avoid burns.
5. Bake Until the Crust is Golden
- Bake the pizza until the cheese is bubbly and the crust achieves a golden-brown color. Cooking times can vary, so monitor the pizza closely.
6. Remove the Pizza and Let the Stone Cool
- Once baked, use the pizza peel to remove the pizza from the oven. Allow the stone to cool inside the oven before handling it to prevent potential cracking from sudden temperature changes.
7. Clean the Stone Properly
- After the stone has cooled completely, brush off any leftover food particles. Avoid using soap or immersing the stone in water, as it can absorb moisture and affect future baking results.
By following these steps, you can make the most of your pizza stone, producing delicious pizzas with perfectly crisp crusts.
Proper maintenance of your pizza stone ensures it delivers delicious, crispy pizzas for years to come. Here’s how to clean, store, and handle a cracked pizza stone:
Cleaning Your Pizza Stone
- Allow the Stone to Cool Completely: After baking, let the stone cool in the oven to prevent thermal shock, which can cause cracking.
- Remove Debris: Once cooled, use a nylon brush or plastic scraper to gently remove any baked-on food particles.
- Wipe with a Damp Cloth: Moisten a cloth with water (avoid soap) and wipe the stone to eliminate residual debris.
- Address Stubborn Stains: For persistent stains, apply a paste of baking soda and water to the affected area, let it sit briefly, then scrub and wipe clean.
Storage Tips
- Keep Dry: Store the stone in a dry place to prevent moisture absorption, which can weaken it and lead to cracking.
- Stable Environment: Place the stone on a stable surface where it won’t be subjected to sudden temperature changes or physical shocks.
Handling a Cracked Pizza Stone
- Minor Cracks: If the stone has minor cracks, you can continue using it by pushing the pieces together during baking.
- Severe Damage: For significant cracks, consider replacing the stone or exploring repair kits designed for ceramic or clay stones.
By following these maintenance and handling tips, your pizza stone will remain a reliable tool in your kitchen, ensuring perfectly baked pizzas every time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you use a pizza stone on a gas grill?
Yes, you can use a pizza stone on a gas grill. Placing a pizza stone on your grill allows you to achieve high temperatures similar to a traditional pizza oven, resulting in a crispy crust and evenly cooked toppings. It’s essential to preheat the stone along with the grill to ensure optimal cooking conditions.
What is the best temperature for using a pizza stone?
The optimal temperature for using a pizza stone is typically between 475°F and 500°F (245°C to 260°C). Preheating your oven or grill to this range ensures the stone is adequately heated, promoting a crispy crust and evenly cooked pizza. Always allow the stone to preheat thoroughly before placing your pizza on it.
How do you prevent pizza from sticking to the stone?
To prevent your pizza from sticking to the stone:
- Use a Pizza Peel with Flour or Cornmeal: Before transferring your pizza to the stone, dust your pizza peel with flour or cornmeal. This creates a barrier between the dough and the peel, allowing for a smooth transfer.
- Ensure Proper Dough Consistency: A well-kneaded and adequately floured dough is less likely to stick. Avoid overly wet or sticky doughs, as they can adhere to the stone.
- Preheat the Stone: Always preheat your pizza stone to the desired temperature before placing the pizza on it. A hot stone helps in cooking the crust quickly, reducing the chances of sticking.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Invest in a Pizza Stone
A pizza stone is one of the best investments you can make for your kitchen. Whether you’re a pizza lover, home chef, or grill master, it helps you create restaurant-quality pizzas at home—crispy, flavorful, and evenly cooked.