Freezing food is a common practice to preserve its freshness and extend its shelf life. But what about a take-and-bake pizza from Papa Murphy’s? If you’ve ever wondered, “Can I freeze a Papa Murphy’s pizza?” you’re not alone. The good news is that you can freeze a Papa Murphy’s pizza, and this guide will walk you through the process to ensure you maintain the quality and taste of your pizza.
Why Freeze a Papa Murphy’s Pizza?
There are several reasons you might want to freeze a Papa Murphy’s pizza:
Convenience: If you’ve purchased multiple pizzas during a sale or simply want to have a quick meal option available at any time, freezing is a great way to store your pizza.
Reduce Waste: Sometimes, you may not be able to finish an entire pizza in one sitting. Freezing the leftovers allows you to enjoy the rest at a later time without it going to waste.
Meal Planning: For busy individuals or families, freezing pizzas can be a part of meal planning, ensuring you have a ready-to-bake meal on hand for those hectic days.
How to Freeze a Papa Murphy’s Pizza
Freezing a Papa Murphy’s pizza is relatively simple. Follow these steps to ensure your pizza freezes well and retains its quality:
Preparation
Wrap the Pizza: Start by leaving the pizza in its original tray. Cover the pizza with plastic wrap, ensuring it is tightly sealed. Then, wrap it again with aluminum foil. This double layer of protection helps prevent freezer burn and keeps the pizza fresh.
Label and Date: Make sure to label the pizza with the date you are freezing it. This helps you keep track of how long it has been in the freezer.
Freezing the Pizza
Quick Freeze: Place the wrapped pizza in the freezer. For the best results, try to freeze it as soon as possible after purchasing or preparing it. This helps preserve the freshness of the ingredients.
Storage Duration: A Papa Murphy’s pizza can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. While it will still be safe to eat beyond this time, the quality and taste may begin to diminish.
How to Bake a Frozen Papa Murphy’s Pizza
Baking a frozen Papa Murphy’s pizza is slightly different from baking it fresh, but it’s just as easy. Here’s how to do it:
Preheat the Oven
Temperature: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is the ideal temperature for baking a frozen Papa Murphy’s pizza.
Prepare the Pizza
Thawing: You have two options here:
Bake From Frozen: You can bake the pizza directly from frozen. Keep in mind that it will take a bit longer to cook thoroughly.
Thaw First: For a more even bake, you can thaw the pizza in the refrigerator for about 24 hours before baking. Once thawed, it will bake in the same time as a fresh pizza.
Remove Wrapping: Before placing the pizza in the oven, make sure to remove all the plastic wrap and foil. Keep the pizza on its original tray for baking.
Baking Time
Bake Time: If you’re baking from frozen, the pizza will take approximately 25-30 minutes to cook. If thawed, it will take about 12-18 minutes. Keep an eye on the pizza, and bake until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and melted.
Check for Doneness: To ensure the pizza is fully cooked, check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
Tips for Freezing and Baking Papa Murphy’s Pizza
To make sure your pizza turns out perfectly, here are a few additional tips:
Consider Flash Freezing: If you plan to store the pizza for an extended period, you might consider flash freezing it first. Place the unwrapped pizza in the freezer for an hour or two until it’s firm. Then wrap it up and store it. This helps maintain the structure and prevents toppings from sliding of
Use a Pizza Stone: If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats. This can help give the crust a crispy texture, even when baking from frozen
Avoid Refreezing: Once you’ve thawed and baked the pizza, it’s best not to refreeze it. This can affect the texture and taste of the pizza.
Freezing a Papa Murphy’s pizza is a convenient way to enjoy this delicious meal on your own schedule. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can ensure that your frozen pizza bakes up just as tasty as if it were fresh. Whether you choose to bake it from frozen or thaw it first, the result will be a satisfying and easy meal for any time of the day.
