Tips and Tricks for Cooking Papa Murphy’s Pizza
Cooking Papa Murphy’s thin crust pizza at home can be simple and rewarding, especially if you follow a few helpful tips. The goal is to achieve a crispy, golden crust with perfectly melted toppings. With a little practice, you’ll be able to enjoy restaurant-quality pizza right from your oven.
First, always remember to preheat your oven before baking the pizza. A hot oven, around 425°F (220°C), helps develop that crisp crust and evenly melts the cheese. Place the oven rack in the middle to ensure the heat circulates properly around the pizza, giving you that desirable crispy edge.
Next, consider using a pizza stone or a baking sheet. A pizza stone absorbs heat and distributes it evenly, giving your crust a restaurant-quality crunch. If you don’t have one, a sturdy baking sheet works just fine. For extra crispiness, you can preheat the baking sheet in the oven while it heats up, then carefully place the pizza on it to bake.
When it comes to baking time, follow the recommended time on the packaging, usually between 12 and 18 minutes. Keep an eye on your pizza as it bakes. The crust should turn golden brown, and the cheese should be bubbly and slightly browned on top. If you like a crisper crust, leave it in a little longer, but watch closely to prevent burning.
For an extra crispy crust, some home cooks like to brush the outer edge with a little olive oil before baking. This creates a nice golden color and adds flavor. You can also sprinkle a dash of garlic powder or Italian herbs on the crust for added taste.
Once out of the oven, allow your pizza to rest for a couple of minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set a little, making slices neater and easier to handle. Use a sharp pizza cutter or a pair of scissors for cleaner cuts through the crust and toppings.
If you prefer a slightly softer crust, you can bake the pizza on a lower rack or reduce the baking time slightly. Every oven is different, so it might take some trial and error to find your perfect balance.
Another helpful tip is to keep your toppings balanced. Avoid piling too many toppings as this can make the pizza soggy. Spread toppings evenly, and remember less is often more to keep the crust crispy and the flavors distinct.
Finally, if you want to reheat leftover pizza, do so in the oven or a skillet instead of the microwave. The oven or skillet will revive the crust’s crispiness, making leftovers almost as good as fresh baked.
- Always preheat your oven to the right temperature.
- Use a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet for extra crunch.
- Keep an eye on baking time to avoid burning.
- Consider brushing the crust with olive oil for a golden color.
- Let the pizza rest before slicing for cleaner cuts.
With these tips, your home-cooked Papa Murphy’s thin crust pizza will be crispy, delicious, and just how you like it. Enjoy your pizza night and get creative with your toppings and finishing touches!
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking at Home
Baking your Papa Murphy’s pizza at home is a simple and satisfying process. With a few easy steps, you can enjoy a delicious, hot pizza just the way you like it. Let’s walk through the key tips and techniques to ensure your pizza turns out perfectly every time.
Preparation Before Baking
Start by preheating your oven. Typically, set it to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps the cheese melt and the crust get crispy. Make sure your oven rack is in the middle position for even heat distribution. While it’s warming up, take your pizza out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This step helps the dough cook evenly and reduces the risk of a soggy crust.
If you like extra toppings, now is a good time to add them. Fresh vegetables, extra cheese, or herbs can boost flavor. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice your pizza after baking. If you prefer a crispier crust, consider placing a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet in the oven during preheating. This method helps mimic a pizzeria-style crust.
Baking Your Pizza
- Place the pizza on a baking sheet, preheated baking stone, or directly on the oven rack for maximum crispiness.
- Bake for approximately 12 to 18 minutes. Keep an eye on the pizza as it bakes. The cheese should be bubbly and golden, and the crust should be evenly browned.
- To prevent burning, especially if your oven has hot spots, rotate the pizza halfway through baking. Be careful when handling hot surfaces!
- If you prefer a softer crust, bake for closer to 12 minutes. For a crunchier crust, aim for the full 18 minutes but watch for signs of over-baking.
Tips for Perfect Pizza
- Use a pizza peel or large spatula to slide the pizza onto a hot baking stone or sheet. This prevents sticking and helps achieve a crispy crust.
- For an extra crispy crust, brush the edges with a little olive oil before baking.
- If you like your cheese extra melted and bubbly, turn on your oven’s broiler for the last 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Let the pizza cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set and makes slicing easier.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave in short bursts until warm. Reheating in the oven helps retain the crispness of the crust, making your leftovers almost as good as fresh out of the oven.
With these simple steps and tips, you can enjoy a homemade pizza experience that rivals your favorite pizzeria. Just remember, every oven is different, so don’t be afraid to adjust times and temperatures to suit your equipment. Happy baking!
Oven Settings for Perfect Pizza
Getting a delicious, crispy crust and evenly cooked toppings starts with choosing the right oven settings. Whether you’re using a regular home oven or a pizza stone, understanding the best temperature and rack position is key to baking a top-notch pizza.
Most home ovens are best set between 475°F and 500°F (245°C to 260°C) for pizza. This high heat mimics the conditions of professional pizza ovens and helps achieve a crispy crust. If your oven has a broiler or pizza mode, use those settings to get extra heat from the top for a nicely browned cheese and toppings.
Setting the Temperature
Set your oven to the highest possible temperature, usually around 500°F. This intense heat helps to quickly cook the pizza, creating a crispy bottom without burning the toppings. If your oven doesn’t reach this temperature, use the highest setting available. Some ovens have a convection setting, which circulates hot air, cooking the pizza more evenly and often faster. If using convection, reduce the temperature by about 25°F to prevent burning.
Choosing the Right Rack Position
Position your oven rack to the top third or upper middle of your oven. This placement places the pizza closer to the heat source, helping the crust crisp up nicely. If you have a pizza stone or steel, preheat it in the oven on the same rack so it’s hot when you slide your pizza on top. This method creates an even crisp and mimics a brick oven result.
In some cases, especially when baking a pizza with a lot of toppings, you may want to rotate the pizza during baking. This ensures even cooking and prevents hot spots from creating burnt edges or undercooked centers.
Additional Tips for Perfect Pizza
- Preheat the oven and pizza stone at least 30 minutes before baking. A hot surface helps to crisp the crust quickly.
- If your oven has a “bake” and “broil” setting, start with bake, then switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes to brown the cheese.
- Keep an eye on the pizza as it bakes. Depending on thickness and toppings, baking times range from 10 to 15 minutes.
- Avoid opening the oven door frequently, as this causes temperature drops and can affect how evenly your pizza bakes.
Monitoring and Adjusting
Every oven is different, so it may take a few tries to find your perfect settings. If the crust isn’t as crispy as you’d like, increase the temperature slightly or move the rack a little higher. If the toppings are burning before the crust is done, lower the temperature or move the rack down.
Remember, patience and small adjustments are the secret to pizza perfection. Once you find the right oven setup, you’ll be able to enjoy restaurant-quality pizza right at home!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Papa Murphy’s pizza at home is convenient and delicious, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the final result. Knowing what to watch out for can help you achieve that perfect, crispy crust and gooey cheese every time. Here are the most frequent errors and tips to avoid them.
Not Preheating the Oven Properly
One of the biggest mistakes is not giving the oven enough time to reach the right temperature. Papa Murphy’s pizzas are best baked at a high temperature, usually between 400°F and 425°F. If you skip preheating or don’t wait until the oven is fully hot, the crust may turn out undercooked or soggy. To fix this, always set your oven early and let it heat up fully before placing your pizza inside.
Using the Wrong Baking Surface
Baking directly on a baking sheet or a pizza stone helps get that crispy crust. Using a ceramic or glass dish can trap moisture and make the bottom soggy. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating so it gets hot. For a more straightforward option, use a perforated pizza pan or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Avoid stacking the pizza on top of cold surfaces that can cool the dough too quickly.
Overloading Toppings
Although it can be tempting to pile on the ingredients, too many toppings can prevent even cooking and make the pizza difficult to cut. Excess cheese and meats can cause the crust to become soggy or greasy. To prevent this, apply toppings in moderation and evenly distribute them. A light layer of cheese and toppings ensures the heat reaches the dough evenly and your pizza cooks thoroughly.
Ignoring Cooking Time
Every oven is different, and cooking times can vary. Rushing to take out the pizza too early often leaves a soggy crust or under melted toppings. Conversely, overcooking can burn the cheese or crust. Follow the recommended cooking time on the box, usually around 15-20 minutes, but keep an eye on your pizza as it nears the end. Look for a golden crust and bubbly cheese as cues that it’s ready.
Not Using a Proper Knife or Pizza Cutter
Once your pizza is baked, cutting it with a dull knife can make it messy and uneven. Use a sharp pizza cutter or a sturdy knife to slice cleanly through the crust. If slices are sticking or tearing, let the pizza cool slightly before slicing or use a bit of cooking spray on the cutter for smoother cuts.
Storing Leftovers Incorrectly
If you have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining flavor and texture. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and keep them in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or on a skillet to restore some crispness. Avoid microwaving for too long, as this can turn the crust soggy and chewy.
- Always preheat your oven fully before baking.
- Use a hot baking surface like a pizza stone or perforated pan.
- Apply toppings sparingly and evenly.
- Follow recommended baking times and keep an eye on your pizza.
- Use the right tools for slicing, like a sharp pizza cutter.
By steering clear of these common mistakes, you’ll enjoy a beautifully baked Papa Murphy’s pizza every time. Happy baking!
Customizing Your Pizza Before Baking
Adding toppings and making modifications before baking is a fun way to personalize your pizza and suit your taste buds. Whether you love extra cheese, vegetables, or a little bit of spice, customizing your pizza ensures it turns out just the way you like. The best part is, it’s simple to adjust your pizza at this stage for a perfect result every time.
First, consider balancing your toppings. A good rule of thumb is to not overload your pizza, as too many toppings can make it soggy or difficult to bake evenly. Aim for a moderate amount, layering ingredients evenly on top of the sauce and cheese. This helps each bite stay flavorful without compromising the crust’s crispiness.
Choosing Your Toppings
Popular toppings include vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives. These add flavor and nutrition without overwhelming the base. For proteins, options such as pepperoni, cooked sausage, ham, or grilled chicken work great. If you want a touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped herbs like basil or oregano after baking for an aromatic boost.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try combining sweet and savory toppings. For example, add pineapple chunks for a tropical twist or a drizzle of honey after baking. Remember not to add chilled or wet ingredients directly on top before baking, as excess moisture can affect the crust’s crispness.
Adding Extra Cheese and Sauces
Enhancing the cheese layer can give your pizza a richer flavor. Consider using different cheeses such as mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, or even ricotta. Layering cheese on top of the toppings can help hold everything together and add a gooey texture.
If you like a bit of heat or spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños before baking. You can also add a splash of olive oil or a swirl of balsamic vinegar for an extra flavor punch. Just be cautious with heavy sauces, as they can make the crust soggy if used excessively.
Creative Modifications
- Try a thin layer of garlic butter brushed on the crust edges for a flavorful finish.
- Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano after baking to keep their bright flavor.
- Use a cheese blend for extra depth, such as mozzarella combined with provolone or feta.
Don’t forget to preheat your oven properly so that your customized toppings cook evenly and the crust reaches that perfect golden-brown color. Baking at a high temperature, around 450-500°F (230-260°C), is ideal for a crispy crust with melted toppings.
Tips for Success
- Pre-cook certain toppings like sausage or chicken to ensure they are fully cooked before baking.
- If adding wet ingredients such as fresh tomatoes, consider draining excess moisture to prevent soggy spots.
- Use a pizza stone or a baking sheet preheated in the oven for a crispier crust.
Experiment with different combinations to find your favorites. Remember, the key is balancing toppings and using quality ingredients for the best flavor. Have fun customizing your pizza and enjoy the delicious results right out of the oven!
Serving Suggestions for Best Results
Once your baked pizza is ready, the way you serve it can really enhance the eating experience. Proper slicing, thoughtful pairing, and attractive presentation make every bite more enjoyable. Here are some friendly tips to help you serve your homemade pizza like a pro.
Slicing Your Pizza
Start by letting your pizza cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set slightly and prevents toppings from slipping off. Use a sharp pizza cutter or a large, serrated knife to make clean, even slices. If your pizza has a lot of toppings or is thick, consider slicing it into smaller pieces, making it easier to handle and eat.
For a uniform look, start at the center of the pizza and work your way outwards. This also helps maintain even portion sizes. If you’re serving a group, a good rule is to cut it into 8 slices for a standard round pizza. For square or rectangular pizzas, cut into strips or squares for sharing.
Pairing Your Pizza
Pair your pizza with drinks that complement its flavors. Classic options include cold soda, sparkling water, or ice-cold beer if you enjoy an adult beverage. For non-alcoholic pairings, consider a refreshing iced tea or a homemade lemonade.
Side dishes can elevate the meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds crunch and freshness to balance the cheesy richness. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are also popular sides that complement many pizza styles.
If you want a little extra flavor, serve your pizza with crushed red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan, or fresh basil. These toppings can be added at the table for personalized seasoning.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation matters, even for casual meals. Arrange your slices on a nicely plated platter or a wooden pizza board. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and aroma.
For a cozy, family-style vibe, serve the pizza directly on a rustic cutting board or a large round tray. Use cloth napkins or colorful plates to brighten the table. If serving at a party, consider pre-cutting the pizza into small squares for easy sharing.
Hot and fresh pizza tastes best, but if you’re not serving immediately, keep it warm in an oven set to a low temperature. Avoid covering it tightly with plastic wrap if you want the crust to stay crisp.
Extra Tips for the Best Serving Experience
- Use a pizza peel or spatula to transfer slices onto plates without tearing the crust.
- Offer utensils like a pizza cutter or scissors for neat, easy serving if your toppings are heavy or thick.
- Don’t forget drinks and sides on the table to create a complete meal experience.
- Encourage everyone to try different toppings or seasonings for a personalized touch.
With these simple serving tips, you’ll turn a delicious homemade pizza into a memorable meal. Enjoy your pizza fresh from the oven, beautifully presented and perfectly paired!
FAQs About Cooking Papa Murphy’s Pizza
If you’re a fan of Papa Murphy’s thin crust pizza, you probably have some questions about how to cook it perfectly, store leftovers, or get the best flavor. Here are some common questions answered to help you enjoy your pizza just the way you like it.
How do I cook Papa Murphy’s thin crust pizza at home?
Cooking Papa Murphy’s pizza is straightforward. First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove the pizza from the packaging and place it directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet. Baking on the rack helps the crust get crispy, but a sheet is easier to handle. Bake for about 12 to 18 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown. Keep an eye on it near the end to avoid burning. For a crisper crust, you can leave it in a little longer, but check frequently to prevent overcooking.
Can I cook Papa Murphy’s pizza in a microwave?
While it’s possible, microwaving is not the best method for thin crust pizza if you want a crispy crust. If you must microwave, place the pizza on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for 2 to 4 minutes. To help keep the crust crispy, you can place the pizza on a microwave crisper pan if you have one. However, expect the crust to be softer and less crispy than baking in the oven. For the best taste and texture, oven baking is recommended.
How should I store leftovers?
If you have leftover Papa Murphy’s pizza, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Keep it in the refrigerator and try to eat within 24 to 48 hours for the best flavor and safety. To prevent the crust from getting soggy, store the pizza without toppings sliding off or absorbed excess moisture from the fridge. If you want to reheat it later, reheating in the oven or on a stovetop skillet will give better results than microwaving.
How do I reheat leftover pizza for the best results?
The oven is your friend here. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the pizza slices directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is crispy. Using a skillet on the stovetop is also great: heat over medium-low, add the pizza slice, cover, and cook for 5-8 minutes until heated through. This method keeps the crust crispy and the cheese melted just right.
Can I add extra toppings before baking?
Absolutely! Many people like to add fresh toppings like extra cheese, vegetables, or herbs before baking. Just keep in mind that adding too much can make the pizza take longer to cook. If you add moist ingredients, like fresh tomato slices, be sure to pat them dry so they don’t release too much water during baking. This way, your crust stays crispy and toppings stay flavorful.
What are some helpful tips for perfectly cooked Papa Murphy’s pizza?
- Use the oven rack for a crispier crust, but a baking sheet works fine too.
- Preheat your oven thoroughly before baking for even cooking.
- Keep an eye on the pizza toward the end of baking to prevent burning.
- If you prefer a softer crust, bake at a slightly lower temperature or for a shorter time.
Enjoy your Papa Murphy’s thin crust pizza just the way you like it, whether fresh out of the oven or reheated for leftovers. With these tips, every bite will be perfect!