The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide to the Best Pizza Peel of 2024

Choosing the best pizza peel for your needs is crucial for pizza-making success. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what to look for in a peel. From material and size to shape and handle length, so you make the best choice for your oven and pizza style.

I’m obsessed with pizza peels! I’ve owned more peels than I can count, and here I’ll share everything I’ve learned over the years, from cooking in my own tiny kitchen to baking pizza with one of the best pizzaiolos in Naples.

Whether you use a pizza stone, a portable pizza oven, or a professional wood-fired oven, a pizza peel is as essential as the dough itself.

What is a pizza peel?

A pizza peel may just look like a simple pizza paddle, but it’s crucial to safely transfer your finished pizza in and out of a blazing hot pizza oven.

Pizza peels come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, but they all have flat carrying surfaces and a handle, designed to slide pizzas in or out of the oven while maintaining the shape and integrity of the dough.

Most pizza peels are made from either wood or metal. These materials offer their benefits and drawbacks.

The importance of using the right peel

Choosing the right pizza peel is key to mastering the art of pizza-making.

There’s a variety of peels out there, each made from different materials and designed for specific tasks. Some are the perfect size for sliding your pizza into the oven, while others shine when rotating, or pulling out your pizza.

The wrong pizza peel for the task at hand will turn pizza-making into a frustrating experience. Selecting the wrong peel for transferring your pizza into the oven can lead to sticking. And a thick peel can’t get under your pizza for rotating and retrieval. The peel’s size, weight, and handle length are also important considerations that can significantly impact your pizza-making experience.

And don’t forget, the type of pizza want to make and your prep methods also play a significant role in your choice of a pizza peel.

Here are some key factors to consider when picking a pizza peel:

• Size: It’s important to choose a peel that’s big enough to handle your pizza with ease. You want your masterpiece to sit comfortably on the peel without any overhang, and also be easy to store.
• Material: Wooden peels have their charm but can be prone to moisture absorption, which might lead to your pizza sticking or making it harder to clean. For better airflow and versatility, you might want to consider a perforated metal peel.
• Design: Comfort is key, so look for a peel with a handle that feels good in your hand and is easy to maneuver. Certain peels are also designed for a specific purpose, such as a turning peel for ensuring an even bake.

Selecting the right pizza peel will not only make your pizza-making journey smoother but also more enjoyable.

How to choose the best pizza peel

With so many options, selecting the ideal pizza peel might seem overwhelming. But finding the right pizza peel is simpler than you might think. Just keep a few important factors in mind and you’ll find the perfect match.

Shape

The shape of your pizza peel can significantly impact its function. A rectangular peel, with its big flat, front edge, is great for sliding under pizzas. It works well for putting pizzas into the oven.

Round peels, on the other hand, are excellent for moving pizzas around inside the oven. The absence of corners on a round peel makes it easier to store and handle multiple pizzas, allowing you to easily get to the pizza from the side.

Material

Wood

A pizza peel made from wood is a timeless favorite. Its natural non-stick properties make it an excellent choice for sliding pizzas into the oven.

However, wooden pizza peels come with a few drawbacks. Their thickness can make it tricky to easily slide the peel under the pizza for turning and retrieval, not to mention they’re a bit on the heavier side. Also, wood absorbs moisture from for example sauce and oil, complicating cleanup. Plus, they need more care than their metal counterparts, including regular oiling.

Wood peels are best for:

• Moving pizzas into into the oven.
• Handling pizzas with lots of toppings, especially when assembled directly on the pizza peel.

Steel

Pizza peels made from steel are thinner and more robust than their wooden counterparts. They’re also a breeze to clean and require less upkeep. The thin blade easily slides under your pizza, making steel peels a go-to for turning and retrieving your pizza from the oven.

However, there are a couple of downsides to metal pizza peels. Raw dough sticks more to them than it does to wooden pizza peels, so you’ll find yourself using more flour and needing a bit more finesse. Steel can also rust if not properly cared for, and it’s heavier than aluminum peels.

A steel peel is best for turning pizzas in the oven, thanks to its durability. The weight also isn’t a major issue for turning peels, since they are much smaller.

Aluminum

An Aluminum pizza peel is thin and great for retrieving pizza. Aluminum is also a lightweight material that’s easy to handle. These peels are straightforward to clean and require little maintenance. Durability is another plus, and unlike steel, and aluminum pizza peel doesn’t rust. This means they are often dishwasher-safe.

The major drawback of an aluminum pizza peel is sticking. Unbaked pizza dough will cling to the surface, requiring you to work fast and use a generous dusting of semolina flour to prevent sticking.

Aluminum peels are best for retrieving pizza due to their thin blade and lightweight.

Perforated vs. solid pizza peels

Pizza peels can have a perforated or solid carrying surface, each with its unique benefits.

A perforated pizza peel addresses a common problem with metal peels: sticking. The holes across the carrying surface reduce friction, making your pizzas easily slide on and off. They also help shake off excess flour from your pizza’s base, leading to a cleaner oven and a pizza crust that tastes just right. The holes also reduce the weight of the peel.

Solid peels provide a continuous surface that’s good for transferring pizzas but can result in more flour burn and potentially stickier situations without proper flouring.

Size

When it comes to choosing your pizza peel, selecting the right size is important. You’ll want to pick a peel that matches the size of pizzas you plan to make, as well as the right size for the oven you’re using. Most pizza peels range from 12 to 16 inches.

For Neapolitan pizza, a peel a 12-inch or 14-inch peel is ideal. If you’re more into large, family-sized pizzas, for example, then going for a 16-inch peel might be your best bet. Remember, you can always make smaller pizzas on a larger peel, but keep in mind that a bigger peel can be heavier and can be more cumbersome if you mainly make smaller pizzas. For more details check out our guide: How to Pick the Perfect Pizza Peel Size.

The handle length is also important for comfort and safety. A short handle is great for smaller pizza ovens where space is limited, making it easy to maneuver your pizzas. A long handle is a must for a larger, wood-fired pizza oven, keeping your hands safely away from the intense heat.

So, remember to measure your oven and consider your pizza size before you decide on the size of your peel.

Price

After dialing in the shape, material, and size of your pizza crust and peel, the next step is to think about the price. Pizza peels come in a wide range of prices to suit various budgets, with the cost influenced by factors like:

• Material: The type of material can significantly affect the price.
• Size: Larger peels often cost more due to the increased amount of material.
• Brand: Some brands may charge a premium based on their reputation.
• Features: Extras such as a foldable handle or a perforated surface can add to the price.

Wooden pizza peels are usually more affordable types of wood, making them a budget-friendly choice. On the other hand, aluminum pizza peels, often have a higher price point.

But remember, price shouldn’t be your only consideration. It’s important to balance quality and affordability. Investing in a durable peel that offers the best value for your money can save you from frequent replacements and enhance your pizza-making experience. So, consider your budget, but also think about the features you need and the longevity of your peel.

After all, a good pizza peel is an investment in delicious pizza.

Choosing the right peel for your pizza style

The kind of pizza you’re passionate about making plays a crucial role in selecting the best peel. Certain peels excel in specific tasks like for example adding cheese and toppings right on the peel, while others are designed for a swift launch into the oven but might not support heavier pizzas well.

For general pizza-making

A wooden peel is the best option for basic use and general pizza making.

Wooden peels are more resistant than metal pizza peels, which makes them a great choice for beginners. They’re particularly useful when you prefer to top your pizza directly on the peel. Since the pizza might sit on the peel a bit longer as you add your toppings, the wooden surface helps reduce the likelihood of the dough sticking.

For Neapolitan pizza

A perforated pizza is the best choice for Neapolitan pizza.

Neapolitan pizza is light and uses a low-hydration dough. Generally, you’ll get your pizza ready and topped up on the counter, not on the peel itself. With the dough being low in moisture and the pizza barely spending any time on the peel, the risk of it sticking is minimal.

The high temperatures used to cook Neapolitan pizza mean that any excess flour could burn, but the primary benefit of a perforated peel is its ability to reduce sticking. The holes in the peel not only help to minimize the pizza’s contact area, reducing the chance of sticking but as an added advantage, they also allow any extra flour to fall through. This helps keep your pizza base clean and free from burnt flour, making the perforated peel an excellent choice for Neapolitan pizza.

Selecting the ideal peel for home pizza-making

Whether you’re using a pizza stone in your kitchen oven or firing up a compact outdoor pizza oven like a Gozney or Ooni oven, choosing a peel that’s just the right fit is important.

Given that space in home ovens and some outdoor pizza ovens can be restricted, taking a moment to measure the width of your oven is a good idea. This ensures the peel you pick will fit comfortably inside. Additionally, for those tight on kitchen space, opting for a peel with a shorter handle can make it much simpler to handle and store.

The best wooden pizza peel

For those in search of a premium wooden pizza peel, my recommendation is the Pizza Royale Ethically Sourced Premium Natural Bamboo Pizza Peel. This peel is from bamboo, which is not just strong but also affordable. This makes it a great pick if you’re watching your budget!

Bamboo is not a traditional choice, but it’s a cheap, yet strong and durable material. The wood makes it less likely to cause your pizza dough to stick, making it ideal for beginners or when you’re prepping your pizza on the peel, like classic New York-style pies. At 12 inches wide, it’s a good size for most home ovens and even works with portable pizza ovens.

While its thicker surface might make it a bit challenging to scoop up pizzas from a really hot oven, it’s perfect for home use. If you’re using a pizza oven, you might want to consider a thinner or a specialized turning peel for easier handling.

In short, this bamboo peel is great for starters and those who like to add toppings directly to the peel. It’s strong, budget-friendly, and works well for home pizza making. Just remember, it’s not the best for scooping up pizzas in very hot ovens, so keep that in mind if you’re a fan of high-temperature baking.

The best aluminum pizza peel

If you’re looking for a pizza peel that combines durability with ease of handling, the aluminum pizza peel is your all-star material. Lightweight and strong, aluminum peels like the New Star Foodservice Aluminum Pizza Peel are resistant to rust and easy to handle. What sets the New Star Foodservice Aluminum Pizza Peel peel apart is its durable construction and comfortable wood handle.

The real game-changer with this peel is how incredibly thin it is. It slides under pizzas effortlessly, making it a dream to retrieve your creations from the oven. And cleaning up is also a breeze, just some soap and hot water, and you’re good to go.

But what I really love is the wooden handle. It’s not just comfortable. It gives you a solid grip, marrying functionality with a sleek design. This peel’s wood handle stands up to the rigors of frequent use without breaking a sweat.

While it’s fantastic for getting pizzas out of the oven, launching them might take a bit of practice. It’s not the most beginner-friendly for that initial slide into the oven, but once you get the hang of it, it’s incredibly efficient. So, if you’re after a reliable, easy-to-handle peel for your pizza nights, this one’s definitely worth considering.

Best perforated pizza peel

The G.a Homefavor Perforated Pizza Peel is my go-to perforated peel for home use. It’s a sturdy, lightweight aluminum peel that has become a personal home favorite, especially with my portable pizza oven.

The peel’s smooth finish on the carrying surface is a game-changer, allowing for effortless sliding of pizzas on and off. Its lightweight nature and ease of maneuverability are big pluses, and its sleek design makes sliding under pizzas to retrieve them from the oven a breeze.

What I particularly appreciate about this peel is its lasting durability. Having used it regularly for over three years and through roughly 800 pizzas, it still performs excellently, despite a few scratches here and there.

Best Peel for a Wood-Fired Pizza Oven

My top pick for a wood-fired oven I the Gi.Metal Azzurra perforated pizza peel. Gi.Metal is synonymous with top-tier quality.

The Gi.Metal Azzurra is a familiar sight in Naples, recognized by its iconic blue handle, and for a good reason. Gi.Metal peels, in my experience, produce the best pizza peels you can find. Made from anodized aluminum, the Azzurra peel is incredibly sturdy yet light, making it perfect for long hours of use, particularly in a professional setting.

Its smooth surface makes sliding pizzas on and off the peel almost effortless. With a variety of sizes and handle lengths to choose from, you can find the ideal peel to match your pizza-making style and oven size.

Though the Gi. Metal Azzurra comes with a higher price tag, and its top-notch quality justifies the investment, especially for those in a professional setting or anyone who wants the absolute best.

Best pizza turning peel

If you’re in search of a turning peel that combines quality with affordability, I highly recommend the Chef Pomodoro Supreme Aluminum 9-Inch Turning Pizza Peel. From my personal experience, the right turning peel makes a huge impact in baking the perfect perfect crust. Especially if you’re using a kitchen oven or a portable, outdoor pizza oven like an Ooni oven.

What makes this peel stand out is its lightweight aluminum build, making it easy to handle and use when making pizzas for a crowd. The 9-inch head is just the right size for maneuvering pizzas with precision, avoiding those all-too-common burnt edges. And believe me, when you’re working with the intense heat of a portable oven, every second counts.

But here’s the best part: this peel is incredibly budget-friendly. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to up their pizza game without breaking the bank.

In short, the Chef Pomodoro Supreme Aluminum 9-Inch Turning Pizza Peel has been a valuable addition to my pizza-making toolkit. It’s particularly suited for home use, whether you’re crafting Neapolitan-style pizzas in your small pizza oven or classic pies in your kitchen oven. For more tips on tuning peels, be sure to check out my detailed guide.

Expert Advice to get the most out of your pizza peel

Using a pizza peel requires a bit of skill and practice, in addition to proper care.

Mastering the Slide

Perfecting the art of sliding your pizza into the oven, also known as launching, is for pizza-making success. A smooth transfer to your pizza stone or pizza oven ensures both a fun pizza-making process and a delicious result. To avoid the dough sticking to your peel, a little preparation goes a long way.

Sprinkling a bit of semolina on your pizza peel before adding the dough can make all the difference. Semolina acts like tiny rollers, providing a non-stick layer between your peel and the pizza. For more insights on choosing the best semolina, check out my article on the best semolina for pizza peel.

When it comes to the launch, it’s all about a quick, decisive movement. A sharp flick of the wrist should do the trick.

If you bake at a lower temperature in a home oven you can also place your pizza on parchment paper to prevent sticking to the peel. However, I strongly recommend removing the parchment paper when the crust starts to avoid burning. Dive deeper into this topic in my article about when to use parchment paper and its risks in hot ovens.

Tips for a Perfect Launch

• Before launching, give your peel a little shake to ensure the pizza slides off smoothly.
• Avoid leaving the pizza on your peel. The longer it sits the more it sticks.
• Keep your peel dry. Moisture can lead to sticking.
• Practice the peel shake and launch motion with an empty peel to master your technique.

Maintenance Matters

Keeping your pizza peel in good shape will ensure better performance and that your peel lasts longer. For wooden peels, a regular application of mineral oil can prevent cracks and warping. This should be done monthly or as needed, depending on how often you use it.

For metal peels, keep them clean and dry. This basic care routine will ward off rust and keep your metal peel all ready for action.

Summary

In wrapping up this guide, I hope the helpful insights shared here empower you to make more informed decisions about your pizza-making tools and techniques. From selecting the right material for your pizza paddle based on your specific needs to mastering the crucial skill of launching your pizza with finesse, these key takeaways are designed to enhance your pizza crafting experience.

Using the right tool for the job is important to have a fun and pleasant pizza-making experience. When it comes to choosing the perfect peel, consider your oven type, pizza style, and personal comfort level to find your ideal match.

After using countless pizza peels over the years, I’ve learned that the right tool has transformed my own pizza-making journey from a daunting and frustrating task to an enjoyable and rewarding process. There’s a certain satisfaction in sliding a perfectly-topped pizza into the oven with ease and watching it bake to perfection, knowing that the right tools and techniques made all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of a pizza peel?

The purpose of a pizza peel is to easily slide the pizzas in and out of the oven while maintaining the shape and integrity of the dough. It can also be used for baking bread and other goods, making it a versatile tool in the home kitchen too.

Is wood or aluminum pizza peel better?

It depends on your needs. A wooden peel is great for launching pizzas due to its non-stick surface, ideal for heavy toppings. An Aluminum peel, with its thin edges, is better for retrieving pizzas but may stick more when launching.

Is a pizza peel with holes better?

Yes, a pizza peel with holes can be better because it allows for a smoother launch of the pizza, reduces the burnt residue on the pizza stone, and minimizes the risk of bitterness in the finished pizza.

Is a perforated pizza peel better than a solid one?

Yes, perforated peels reduce friction and help shake off excess flour, making them great for launching pizzas and keeping your oven cleaner. Solid peels, provide a stable surface for building your pizza and are versatile for both launching and retrieving, but doesn’t help get rid of excess flour.

What are the best dimensions for a pizza peel?

A 12-inch to 14-inch peel is the perfect size for standard pizzas, while a 16-inch peel suits larger, family-sized pizzas. Handle length should match your oven size and usage; shorter for home ovens and longer for larger, professional ovens. Ensure the peel fits your oven and allows for safe, comfortable pizza handling.

How thick should a pizza peel be?

A pizza peel should be as thin as possible while still being sturdy. Thinner peels slide under pizzas more easily, making them ideal for both launching and retrieving pizzas from the oven.

What size pizza turning peel do I need?

An 8-10 inch diameter is the ideal size for most turning peels, offering a good balance between maneuverability and the capability to comfortably handle various pizza sizes.

What is the best coating for pizza peel?

The best coating for a pizza peel is semolina, as it prevents the dough from sticking and makes it easier to slide the uncooked pizza off the peel.

How does the material of a pizza peel affect its use?

The material of a pizza peel affects its use by impacting functionality and maintenance. Wooden peels offer a natural, non-stick surface but require more maintenance, while metal peels provide low-friction sliding but may have sticking issues.

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