How To Cook Frozen Papa Murphy's Pizza

How to Cook Frozen Papa Murphy's Pizza: A Step-by-Step Guide

So, you've got a delicious Papa Murphy's pizza sitting in your freezer, waiting to be devoured. But how do you cook it to perfection? Don't worry, it's easier than you think! This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you get that crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese every time.

Preparing Your Oven and Pizza

Before you even think about opening that frozen pizza box, preheating your oven is key. This ensures even cooking and a crispy crust. Aim for a temperature of 400-425°F (200-220°C). Give your oven at least 15-20 minutes to reach the desired temperature. Using an oven thermometer can help you ensure accuracy.

While the oven preheats, remove your pizza from its freezer packaging. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the pizza to thaw slightly, which helps it cook more evenly and prevents a soggy bottom.

Cooking Your Papa Murphy's Pizza

Once your oven is preheated and your pizza has had a chance to thaw slightly, it's time to bake! Place the pizza directly onto the oven rack. Avoid using a pizza stone unless specified in the package instructions, as it's not always necessary for frozen pizzas and might lead to uneven cooking.

Bake time will vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the pizza. However, a general guideline is to bake for 18-22 minutes. Keep a close eye on it after the 15-minute mark. You want the crust to be golden brown and the cheese completely melted and bubbly.

Checking for Doneness

To ensure your pizza is perfectly cooked, check for these signs:

• Golden-brown crust: The crust should be a nice, golden brown color, indicating it's cooked through.
• Melted and bubbly cheese: The cheese should be completely melted and bubbly, with no visible uncooked areas.
• Evenly cooked toppings: The toppings should be heated through and evenly distributed across the pizza.

If the crust is browning too quickly but the cheese isn't fully melted, reduce the oven temperature slightly and continue baking. If the cheese is melting but the crust is still pale, increase the oven temperature slightly.

After Baking

Once your pizza is cooked to perfection, remove it carefully from the oven using oven mitts. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut and eat.

Tips for the Perfect Papa Murphy's Pizza

• Don't overcrowd the oven: Ensure there's enough space around the pizza for even heat circulation.
• Rotate the pizza halfway through: Rotating the pizza helps ensure even cooking on both sides.
• Use a pizza cutter: A pizza cutter makes slicing easier and cleaner.
• Experiment with toppings: Add your own favorite toppings before baking.

By following these simple steps, you'll be able to enjoy a delicious, perfectly cooked Papa Murphy's pizza every time! Enjoy!