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How to Cook and Store Frozen Pizza - Easy Guide

Author: Melissa Collins

Updated: January 18, 2023

Are you tired of ordering takeout or delivery pizza every time you crave a slice? Look no further because this guide will teach you the ins and outs of cooking and storing frozen pizza to perfection! So, say goodbye to soggy crusts and uneven toppings and hello to delicious, homemade frozen pizza any time you want it. So, grab your pizza cutter, and let’s get cooking!

The best way to cook fresh frozen pizza

The best way to cook a fresh frozen pizza is to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the frozen pizza on the center rack of the oven. If your pizza has frozen toppings that need to be cooked through, like vegetables or meats, bake the pizza for about 10-12 minutes. If the pizza is just cheese and sauce, bake for about eight to ten minutes or until the crust is light brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

To ensure even cooking, you can rotate the pizza halfway through the cooking time. Remember to follow the instructions on the packaging as well, as the cooking times and temperatures may vary based on the brand or type of pizza you have.

The best way to cook frozen pizza

Cooking frozen pizza is a quick way to enjoy a delicious meal at home. Follow the method:

Oven Method: The most common method is to preheat your oven to 425°F. Now place the frozen pizza directly on the middle rack. Next, cook for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the crust is light brown.
Stovetop Method: If you don’t have an oven, you can cook your frozen pizza on the stovetop. Place a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and place the frozen pizza in the skillet. Now, cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy.
Microwave Method: You can also cook your frozen pizza in the microwave for a quick and convenient option. Place the frozen pizza on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for 4-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the crust is lightly golden.

Grill Method: Another option is to cook your frozen pizza on the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the frozen pizza on the grill grates. Grill for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy.

It’s important to note that cooking times may vary depending on your oven, stove, microwave, or grill.

How to cook frozen pizza on the stove

To cook a frozen pizza on the stove, you will need a stovetop, a pan or skillet with a lid, and a pizza stone or a thick metal spatula.

Begin by preheating the pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the pan is hot, place the frozen pizza on the pan or skillet.
Next, cover the pan with a lid and cook the pizza for about 3-5 minutes, or until the bottom of the crust is light brown.

Using a pizza stone or a thick metal spatula, carefully flip the pizza over.
Cook the pizza for an additional 3-5 minutes on the other side until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Once it is cooked, remove it from the pan or skillet and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Note: Cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the pizza. Adjust the heat as necessary to cook the pizza evenly. Keep an eye on the pizza to prevent it from burning.

How to cook frozen pizza in an air fryer

Here are the basic steps to cook frozen pizza in an air fryer:

Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

Now, place the frozen pizza in the air fryer basket.
Cook for 8-12 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Use a fork or tongs to remove the pizza from the air fryer.

Now, let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Note: Cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the pizza, so be sure to check the package instructions for specific cooking times and temperatures. Also, some air fryer models may require preheating, so check your manual before starting.

How to cook frozen pizza in the oven

Cooking frozen pizza in the oven is a simple and convenient way to enjoy a delicious homemade pizza. Here are the basic steps:

Ingredients:

1 frozen pizza

Instructions:

First, preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius (425 degrees Fahrenheit)
Remove the frozen pizza from its packaging and place it on a baking sheet or pizza pan.
Next, place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for the time stated in the package instructions. Typically, a frozen pizza will take about 10-15 minutes to cook in an oven.

Check the pizza frequently to ensure it doesn’t burn. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the crust should be light brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Alternatively, you can also cook the frozen pizza in a preheated air fryer for about 8-10 minutes at 400F (200C).

How to microwave frozen pizza

Cooking frozen pizza in the microwave is a quick and convenient option. Here are the basic steps:

Take the frozen pizza out of the packaging and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
If your pizza comes with a paper or plastic tray, remove it before microwaving.

Next, place the plate in the microwave and cook on high for 4-6 minutes or until the crust is light brown.
Keep in mind that cooking time may vary depending on the size of the pizza and the wattage of your microwave.
Check the pizza after 4 minutes, it should be heated through, if not, continue cooking in 30 seconds increments.

Once it’s done, carefully remove the pizza from the microwave, as it will be hot. And let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

You can also use a microwave pizza crisper or a microwave-safe dish with a lid to keep the crust crispy. Additionally, you can add toppings of your preference after it’s cooked, like vegetables or meat. Keep an eye on the pizza as it cooks to prevent it from getting overcooked or burnt.

How to cook frozen pizza in a pan

To cook frozen pizza in a pan, preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, then place the frozen pizza directly in the skillet. Cook for about 5-8 minutes until the crust is light brown and the cheese is melted. You can also cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt and cook the toppings. Once the pizza is cooked, use a spatula to remove it from the skillet and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

How long does frozen pizza take to cook

The cooking time for frozen pizza can vary depending on the type of pizza and the oven or grill you are using.

For a conventional oven, most frozen pizzas take around 12-15 minutes to cook at 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) on the middle rack. However, some manufacturers recommend preheating the oven before cooking, so check the instructions on the package.

For a toaster oven, the cooking time can be around 8-12 minutes at 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) on the middle rack.

For a grill, the cooking time can be around 8-12 minutes on medium-high heat, depending on the heat of your grill.

When cooking a frozen pizza, it’s important to rotate it in the oven and check it frequently to ensure that it cooks evenly and does not burn. It’s also important to check the internal temperature of the pizza with a meat thermometer. It should reach at least 74°C (165°F) before serving.

It’s important to read the instructions on the packaging to get a better idea of the cooking time.

Note that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the crust, toppings, and the size of the pizza.

Best side dishes for frozen pizza

Many great side dishes pair well with frozen pizza, here are a few examples:

Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing complement to the rich and savory flavors of pizza.

Garlic Bread: A classic side dish, garlic bread is a great way to add extra flavor and texture to your pizza. You can make it home with butter, garlic, and parsley or buy it pre-made.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, and onions are a healthy and flavorful option that can be served alongside pizza.
Breadsticks: Breadsticks are a great side dish that can be served with pizza, they’re easy to make at home, or you can also buy them pre-made.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta, made with diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar on toasted bread, is a great side dish for pizza, it adds a fresh and acidic touch.
Pasta Salad: A pasta salad with your favorite pasta, vegetables, and dressing is a great side dish served with pizza. It’s a great option if you’re looking for something more substantial.

These are just a few examples of side dishes that pair well with frozen pizza. Still, you can always experiment and try new combinations.

Best condiments for frozen pizza

You can enjoy frozen pizza on its own or with a variety of condiments. Here are some popular condiments that can be added to frozen pizza to enhance its flavor and texture:

Red pepper flakes: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick of heat to your frozen pizza.
Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese: A sprinkle of gratedParmesan or Pecorino cheese can add a nutty, salty flavor to your pizza.

Fresh basil: Fresh basil adds a fresh flavor to your pizza.
Garlic powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder can add a nice depth of flavor to your pizza.
Oregano: Oregano is a classic pizza seasoning that can add a nice herbaceous flavor to your pizza.

Crushed red pepper: Crushed red pepper can add a nice heat to your pizza and can complement the cheese and sauce.
Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper can add a nice depth of flavor and subtle spiciness to your pizza.
Balsamic glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze over your pizza can add a nice sweetness and tanginess to it.

Olive oil: A drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil can add a nice rich flavor to your pizza.
Arugula: Arugula can be added as a topping after the pizza is cooked. It adds a nice freshness and peppery flavor to it.

These are just a few examples, you can experiment with different condiments and toppings to find the combination that you like best.

How to store a frozen pizza

Storing frozen pizza properly can help to maintain its quality and taste. Here are a few tips for storing frozen pizza:

Keep the pizza in its original packaging: The packaging that the pizza comes in is designed to protect it from freezer burn. Do not open the packaging until you are ready to cook the pizza.
Store the pizza in the freezer: The ideal temperature for storing frozen food is 0°F (-18°C). This will help to preserve the pizza’s quality and taste.

Label and date the pizza: Write the date of purchase on the packaging with a permanent marker. This will help you know how long the pizza has been in the freezer and when it should be consumed.
Keep the pizza in the back of the freezer: The back of the freezer tends to be the coldest part, so it’s the best place to store frozen food.
Avoid overcrowding the freezer: Make sure to leave enough space between the pizzas and other frozen items to allow the air to circulate properly.

Do not refreeze thawed pizza: Once it has been thawed, it should be cooked and consumed within 2-3 days. Do not refreeze thawed pizza, as it can lead to a deterioration of the quality and taste.

Following these tips will help to ensure that your frozen pizza stays fresh and delicious and is ready to be enjoyed whenever you’re ready to cook it.

How long does frozen pizza stay good for?

Frozen pizza can typically stay good for up to 6 months when stored in a freezer at a temperature of -18°C (0°F) or below. However, it’s important to note that the quality of the pizza may start to degrade after this time period, and the taste and texture may not be as good as when it was first frozen.

When storing frozen pizza, it’s important to ensure it’s properly sealed in its original packaging or in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Freezer burn can cause the pizza to dry out and lose flavor, so it’s best to consume it within the first 3 months for the best quality.

It’s also important to thaw the pizza completely before cooking it to ensure that it cooks evenly. Once thawed, it’s best to cook the pizza as soon as possible to avoid any spoilage or bacteria growth.

Check the expiration date on the packaging and follow the storage instructions on the product, as different brands and types of frozen pizza may have different shelf lives.

FAQs:

Can I add additional toppings to frozen pizza before cooking?

Yes, you can add additional toppings to frozen pizza before cooking, but make sure to add them on top of the cheese to prevent them from burning.

Can frozen pizza be reheated after it has been cooked?

Yes, frozen pizza can be reheated after it has been cooked, but it may not have the same texture and crust as when it was first cooked.

Can frozen pizza be cooked on a grill?

Yes, frozen pizza can be cooked on a grill, but it may require a special pizza stone or pan to prevent it from sticking.

Can frozen pizza be cooked directly on the oven rack?

It is not recommended to cook frozen pizza directly on the oven rack as it may cause the crust to burn and the cheese to melt unevenly.

Should frozen pizza be thawed before cooking?

No, frozen pizza should not be thawed before cooking as it is designed to be cooked from frozen.