The best mode in an oven to cook a pizza depends on the type of pizza you are preparing and personal preferences. Generally, there are two common oven modes used for cooking pizza:
Conventional Bake: This mode is also known as "bake" or "conventional oven." It uses both the upper and lower heating elements to generate heat, creating a consistent temperature throughout the oven. It's suitable for most types of pizzas, including frozen pizzas, homemade pizzas, and thin-crust pizzas. For this mode, you typically set the oven temperature between 450°F to 500°F (230°C to 260°C).
Convection Bake: Many modern ovens come equipped with a convection feature. Convection cooking uses a fan to circulate hot air around the oven cavity, resulting in even and faster cooking. It is excellent for achieving a crispy crust while evenly cooking the toppings. If your oven has a convection mode, you can use it for cooking pizza at a slightly lower temperature than in conventional bake mode, usually around 425°F to 475°F (220°C to 240°C). This mode is especially helpful for thicker-crust pizzas and homemade dough.
When cooking pizza, it's essential to preheat the oven to the desired temperature before placing the pizza inside. Preheating ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you start cooking, helping to achieve the best results.
Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the oven and the thickness of the pizza, so it's a good idea to keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. Enjoy your delicious homemade or frozen pizza!