Who doesn’t love leftover pizza? It’s a convenient and delicious meal option, especially when you’re pressed for time or simply craving the mouthwatering flavors of a cheesy, savory slice. While there are various methods to reheat pizza, the oven method stands out as the best approach in terms of achieving that perfect balance between crispy crust and gooey toppings.
This article will go over the drawbacks of reheating pizza in the microwave and on the stovetop. We will go through the step-by-step procedure of reheating pizza in the oven, as well as crucial points to keep in mind when reheating pizza in the oven.
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WHY MICROWAVE AND STOVETOP METHOD DO NOT WORK FOR REHEATING PIZZA
Reheating pizza using traditional methods can often be underwhelming. The go-to choices for many individuals are the microwave or stovetop methods. Unfortunately, they are proven to be inadequate when it comes to achieving optimal results in reheating pizza. Often, they make reheated pizza soggy and unappetizing.
Microwaving pizza may be the most convenient option, but it often results in disappointment. The microwave’s high heat and moisture-saturated environment can quickly turn a once-crispy crust into a rubbery mess. The uneven distribution of heat leaves the toppings either scorching hot or disappointingly cold. Furthermore, the microwave fails to restore the original texture and flavors of the pizza for the same reason, leaving it far from satisfying.
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The stovetop method is not much different.
Stovetops typically have heat sources that are concentrated in specific areas, such as gas burners or electric coils. For this reason, there would be an uneven heat distribution that can cause the pizza toppings to heat at different rates. As a result, some parts of the pizza may receive more direct heat than others. For example, while the crust might become crispy, the cheese and toppings may not have enough time to heat thoroughly, resulting in a lukewarm or unevenly melted pizza.
Furthermore, the stovetop method requires careful monitoring and adjustment of the heat to prevent burning or scorching the pizza. The high heat of the stovetop can easily cause the crust to burn if not attended to closely. Hence, this method also requires constant monitoring and flipping, making it time-consuming and impractical for larger pizza slices.
With that having said, let’s discuss the best way to reheat pizza–the oven method.
HERE’S HOW TO REHEAT PIZZA USING THE OVEN
When it comes to reheating pizza, the oven reigns supreme. Unlike the microwave or stovetop, the oven provides an even and controlled heat distribution. This allows the crust to regain its desired crispiness and the cheese to melt to perfection. It offers the ideal balance between heat and moisture, reviving the flavors and textures of the pizza without compromising quality. The oven method allows for customization, enabling you to adjust temperature and time to achieve your preferred level of crispness.
Step-by-step
The first step when you reheat leftover pizza is to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for getting your pizza crispy without burning it. While your oven is preheating, take your leftover pizza out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This will help it cook more evenly in the oven. Once your oven is preheated, place your pizza directly on the oven rack.
After preheating your oven to 375°F, simply position your leftover pizza directly on the oven rack. Bake it for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the crust achieves a delightful crispness. Remember to monitor the pizza closely to prevent it from burning. Once perfectly cooked, carefully remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This oven reheating technique revitalizes your leftover pizza, transforming it into a mouthwatering delight that rivals its freshly baked counterpart.
PREVENTING PIZZA BECOME SOGGY
While the oven method is the best way to reheating a leftover pizza, it may still result in a soggy pizza if not properly done. Here are 3 things to avoid when doing it.
Do not use a baking sheet
When reheating pizza, it’s best to avoid using a baking sheet or foil. While these may seem like convenient options to prevent sticking and facilitate cleanup, they can trap moisture and lead to a soggy crust. Instead, place the pizza directly on the oven rack or use a pizza stone. This allows heat to circulate around the pizza, ensuring even heating and promoting a crispy crust. The direct contact with the oven surface helps to evaporate any moisture, preventing it from being trapped and resulting in a soggy texture.
Do not add water to produce steam
Adding water to produce steam is a common technique used in cooking, but it should be avoided when reheating pizza. While steam can be useful in some instances, such as baking bread, it can have adverse effects on reheated pizza. Introducing moisture through steam can make the crust soggy and compromise its crispness. It’s best to rely on dry heat when reheating pizza, as it helps to remove any moisture present in the pizza, resulting in a crispy and satisfying texture.
Do not cover the pizza with aluminum foil
Covering the pizza with aluminum foil may seem like a good idea to prevent excessive browning, but it can contribute to a soggy crust. By trapping steam and moisture, the foil prevents proper air circulation and inhibits the escape of moisture from the pizza. As a result, the crust can become soft and lose its desired crispiness. It’s better to allow the pizza to reheat uncovered, ensuring that the heat can evenly penetrate the crust and evaporate any moisture, resulting in a crispy, reheated slice.
