What Is a Steam Oven and Is It Worth It?

Fri Jun 27 2025

Cooking

Kitchens today are getting smarter, sleeker, and more specialized than ever. And one appliance that’s been bubbling up on the trend radar is the steam oven.

Ovens with a steam feature seem like something you'd see in a pro chef’s kitchen or a fancy cooking show, but these compact powerhouses are being installed in more and more homes.

So, what exactly is a steam oven, how does it work, and is it actually worth the hype (and the investment)? Let’s break it down.

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What Is a Steam Oven?

A steam oven is exactly what it sounds like: it uses steam, not just dry heat, to cook your food. Most models still offer traditional convection baking or roasting, but they add the option of cooking with steam alone or in combination with dry heat.

Here’s how it works: a built-in water reservoir heats up and produces steam, which fills the oven cavity and cooks your food gently and evenly.

Think of it like the difference between air-drying your laundry vs. using a gentle steam cycle. It’s a more moisture-rich environment, which means food stays tender, juicy, and full of flavor.

Benefits of Cooking with a Steam Oven

Steam ovens offer some real advantages when it comes to everyday cooking.

✅ Healthier Cooking

Steam locks in nutrients better than dry heat. That means your veggies keep more of their natural vitamins, and proteins like fish or chicken cook without needing added fats or oils.

✅ Better Texture and Taste

No more dried-out chicken or shriveled baked goods. Steam ovens keep food moist on the inside while still allowing a beautiful crust or caramelization on the outside, especially if it’s a combination steam oven.

✅ Faster Cooking

Steam conducts heat more efficiently than air, so many foods cook faster. Bonus: you don’t need to preheat most steam ovens.

✅ Great for Reheating

Forget rubbery leftovers. Steam gently revives food without drying it out, making it a favorite for those who meal prep or use leftovers often.

💡 Learn more: The Benefits of Owning a Double Oven: Tips, Tricks, and Recipes

What Can You Cook in a Steam Oven?

Honestly? Almost anything.

Veggies: Bright, crisp, and never mushy.
Proteins: Perfectly juicy chicken, tender fish, even steak when paired with dry heat.
Bread: Steam helps create that artisan bakery-style crust.
Casseroles: Heat all the way through without drying out the edges.
Desserts: Custards, puddings, cheesecakes—yes, please.
Leftovers: Better than the microwave. Period.

Steam Ovens vs Regular Ovens: What’s the Difference?

The big difference comes down to moisture.

Traditional ovens use dry heat (baking, roasting, broiling).
Steam ovens use moist heat, or a combo of moist and dry heat (convection + steam).

Steam ovens offer more control and often better results, especially for delicate dishes or anything prone to drying out.

Are Steam Ovens Worth It?

It depends on how you cook, but for many people, the answer is a solid yes.

You might not need one if:

You mainly use your oven for frozen pizza and the occasional cookie tray
You’re tight on space or budget
You don’t cook often or prefer simpler tools

Top Steam Ovens Available at DeWaard & Bode

At DeWaard & Bode, we carry high-performance steam ovens from brands you know and trust. These ovens are designed to bring pro-level results into your home kitchen.

GE Profile™ 30 in. Combination Double Wall Oven

Model: PT9900SWSS

Convection, air fry, steam, sous vide, and Advantium® technology all in one unit
Built-in WiFi for remote monitoring and recipe integration
Speedcook technology delivers oven-quality results in a fraction of the time

Miele 24" Compact Combi-Steam Oven XL

Model: DGC7440CTS

Clean Touch Steel finish with BrilliantLight for clear visibility
Versatile steam, bake, and roast functions with intuitive Miele networking features
XL cavity is ideal for cooking multiple dishes at once

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JennAir NOIR 24" Built-In Steam and Convection Wall Oven

Model: JJW6024HM

Sleek, modern design with touchscreen controls and elegant NOIR styling
Steam and convection technology for precise cooking results
JennAir Culinary Center offers guided cooking for pro-level dishes

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Thermador 30" Professional Double Steam Wall Oven

Model: PODS302B

Two full-size steam ovens with professional-grade features
Steam, convection, and combination cooking for gourmet flexibility
SoftClose® doors and True Convection for quiet, consistent performance

Explore Steam Ovens at DeWaard & Bode

If you’re curious about steam ovens, come check them out in person! At DeWaard & Bode, our expert team can walk you through how they work, what models we carry, and how they can change the way you cook.

Contact us or visit one of our appliance stores in Bellingham or Burlington, Washington, to speak with our appliance experts. We’ll help you choose an oven that makes mealtime easier and more efficient. We also offer ranges, cooktops, microwaves, and more.

FAQs: Common Questions About Steam Ovens

1. Do steam ovens replace a regular oven?
They can, especially combi-steam ovens. You’ll still be able to bake, roast, and broil—just with more control and better moisture.

2. Do steam ovens need a water line?
Most steam ovens use a refillable water reservoir. Some higher-end models may offer a plumbed option, but it's not required.

3. Are steam ovens hard to clean?
Not at all. Most models have a drain system and easy-wipe interiors. Just empty the reservoir and wipe down after use.

4. Can I use a steam oven for baking?
Yes! Steam helps bread rise better and creates a crisp, golden crust. It’s also great for cakes, pastries, and custards.

5. Is a steam oven worth the cost?
If you cook often and want healthier, more flavorful results—or just better leftovers—it’s a smart investment.