Presto 4609117 Pizzazz Plus Rotating Countertop Oven Review for Perfect Cooking

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Pizzazz Pizza Oven Review: Is It Really That Amazing?

I’ve got to admit, I wasn’t entirely convinced when I first heard about the Presto Pizzazz Plus Rotating Countertop Oven (Model 4609117). The promise of crispy pizzas, easy functionality, and no preheating sounded too good to be true. But after weeks of using it, I’m here to spill the sauce (pun intended) on whether this countertop pizza oven lives up to the hype. Spoiler alert: it’s surprisingly impressive!

A Rotating Oven That’s Actually Fun to Use

The first time I plugged in the Pizzazz Plus, I felt like I was operating some futuristic food contraption. The rotating tray is the star of the show here. It evenly cooks your food by continuously spinning under top and bottom heating elements. The dual heat control knobs let you decide whether to use the top, the bottom, or both. This feature is perfect for pizzas that need a crispy crust but gooey cheese on top.

I tested it with frozen pizzas, homemade dough, and even some unconventional experiments (hello, reheated cookies). Let me tell you, everything came out great. Not only does it eliminate the need for preheating, but it also cooks faster than my regular oven. My frozen pepperoni pizza was done in about 12 minutes flat, with that perfect golden crust.

Quirks You Should Know About

While I’m singing its praises, there are a few quirks you should know. The open design means you’ll see and smell everything cooking. That’s a double-edged sword: great for monitoring progress, but also a little risky if you’ve got curious pets or kids. Also, the timer knob feels a tad flimsy. It works just fine, but I can’t help but wish it were sturdier.

Another thing? It’s not a “set it and forget it” device. If you’re someone who likes to walk away while your food cooks, this might not be for you. But honestly, watching it rotate is oddly satisfying. I’ve caught my kids staring at it like it’s a Netflix series.

How It Stacks Up Against Competitors

I’ve tried other countertop ovens like the Breville Smart Oven and the Ninja Foodi. While those are awesome for versatility, the Pizzazz Plus is in a league of its own for pizza lovers. Its rotating tray ensures even cooking, something I just don’t get with a standard toaster oven. However, it’s worth noting that this is more niche. If you want something that handles everything from toasting bread to roasting chicken, this isn’t that.

On the other hand, the energy efficiency of the Pizzazz Plus blows my mind. It uses significantly less power than my traditional oven, making it a great choice for quick meals without heating up the entire kitchen—especially in summer.

The Price: Is It Worth It?

You won’t find me quoting exact prices here, but I will say this: the Pizzazz Plus feels like a bargain for what it offers. Yes, there are cheaper countertop ovens, but none that do what this one does. It’s an investment in convenience, and if you’re someone who eats pizza more than twice a month (guilty), it’s money well spent.

Exploring the Features

What makes this machine unique is its customizable cooking options. You can adjust the heat source to only cook the top or bottom, which is great for melting cheese without burning the crust. The nonstick rotating tray is easy to clean—just wipe it down, and you’re good to go. Plus, the compact size makes it easy to store in a cabinet or even on the countertop without eating up all the space.

One thing I didn’t expect was how versatile it is. While it’s marketed as a pizza oven, I’ve used it for chicken nuggets, reheating sandwiches, and even warming tortillas. It’s like having a mini oven that’s laser-focused on doing its job well.

A Few Anecdotes for You

My dad, who’s not exactly a wizard in the kitchen, has been raving about it since I showed him how it works. He’s been cooking frozen pizzas and chicken tenders like a pro. My kids? They’re obsessed with watching the tray spin, and they’ve even started calling it “the pizza carousel.”

All in all, the Presto Pizzazz Plus Rotating Countertop Oven has been a game-changer in my kitchen. It’s not perfect, but for anyone who loves effortless pizza nights or quick meals, it’s an absolute gem.

Pros

• Energy Efficient: Uses much less power than traditional ovens and heats up faster.
• No Preheating Required: Saves time, making it perfect for quick meals.
• Dual Heating Control: Allows customization for top-only, bottom-only, or dual heating.
• Compact and Lightweight: Easy to store or leave on the counter without taking up too much space.
• Easy Cleaning: Nonstick tray makes cleanup a breeze.

Cons

• Not Ideal for All Foods: Works best for pizzas and similar items; not a replacement for a full oven.
• Flimsy Timer Knob: The build quality of the timer could be improved.
• Open Design: While it’s great for monitoring, it can be a hazard around kids or pets.
• Lack of Timer Shutoff: The oven doesn’t automatically turn off when the timer runs out.
• Limited Capacity: Can only cook one pizza or item at a time, which might not suit larger families.

What Comes with the Product

• Rotating nonstick tray
• Base with heating elements
• Crumb tray for easy cleaning
• User manual

How to Use Guide

1. Plug in the Pizzazz Plus and position it on a stable surface.
2. Place your pizza or food item on the rotating tray.
3. Adjust the control knobs for the desired heat (top, bottom, or both).
4. Set the timer based on the instructions or your personal preference.
5. Watch the tray rotate and your food cook evenly.
6. Once the timer goes off, use oven mitts to remove your food carefully.
7. Allow the tray to cool before cleaning.

Warranty & Support Information

The Presto Pizzazz Plus comes with a limited 1-year warranty that covers manufacturer defects. For issues, you can contact Presto’s customer support team, which is known for its responsiveness. They also offer replacement parts like trays and heating elements, ensuring longevity for your investment. Make sure to register your product online for quicker support and warranty claims.

Additional information