Tombstone Pizza is one of the most popular frozen pizza brands in the United States. Known for its crispy crust, flavorful sauce, and generous toppings, this pizza has been a favorite choice for quick and easy meals for decades. Whether you have tried it before or are just curious about what makes it special, this article will take you through the history, flavors, ingredients, and why it remains a beloved option for pizza lovers.
History of Tombstone Pizza
Tombstone Pizza has an interesting history that dates back to 1962. It was created in Medford, Wisconsin, by two brothers, Joe and Ron Simek. The pizza was originally sold in a bar called the Tombstone Tap, which was located near a cemetery. This unique setting inspired the brand name “Tombstone Pizza.”
As demand for their delicious pizza grew, the Simek brothers decided to expand their business. They started selling frozen pizzas to local grocery stores. Over time, the brand became more popular, leading to its nationwide expansion. In 1986, Kraft Foods acquired Tombstone Pizza, further increasing its reach and making it one of the top-selling frozen pizzas in America.
What Makes Tombstone Pizza Special?
There are many frozen pizza brands available, but Tombstone Pizza stands out for several reasons:
Classic Thin Crust
Tombstone Pizza is famous for its thin and crispy crust. Unlike thicker crusts, it bakes quickly and has a satisfying crunch. This makes it a great choice for those who enjoy a balance between crust and toppings.
Bold and Tangy Sauce
One of the key features of Tombstone Pizza is its sauce. The tomato sauce has a bold, tangy flavor with just the right amount of seasoning. It complements the cheese and toppings perfectly, giving each bite a well-rounded taste.
High-Quality Toppings
Tombstone Pizza comes with a variety of toppings to suit different tastes. From classic cheese and pepperoni to supreme and meat-lover’s options, there is something for everyone. The toppings are generously spread across the pizza, ensuring that every slice is flavorful.
Easy and Quick to Prepare
One of the biggest reasons for Tombstone Pizza’s popularity is its convenience. It can be stored in the freezer for months and is ready to eat in just 15-20 minutes after baking. This makes it an excellent choice for busy individuals and families looking for a quick meal.
Popular Flavors of Tombstone Pizza
Tombstone offers a variety of flavors to cater to different preferences. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Cheese
For those who love the simple and classic taste of pizza, the cheese version is perfect. It features a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the signature sauce and thin crust.
Pepperoni
This is one of the most loved Tombstone flavors. It comes with plenty of spicy, slightly crispy pepperoni slices that enhance the overall taste of the pizza.
Sausage
The sausage pizza is topped with flavorful sausage crumbles that add a savory and slightly smoky taste to the pizza.
Supreme
If you enjoy a mix of flavors, the supreme pizza is a great choice. It includes pepperoni, sausage, green peppers, onions, and black olives, giving it a rich and hearty taste.
Meat Lover’s
This pizza is packed with various meats, including pepperoni, sausage, ham, and bacon. It is perfect for those who enjoy a meat-heavy pizza.
Four Cheese
A great option for cheese lovers, this pizza blends mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and asiago cheese for a rich and creamy taste.
How to Cook Tombstone Pizza
Preparing a Tombstone Pizza is very easy. Here are the steps to follow:
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (204°C). Preheating ensures even cooking.
Unwrap the Pizza
Remove the pizza from the packaging and discard the plastic wrap.
Place the Pizza on the Oven Rack
For the best results, place the pizza directly on the center oven rack. This helps achieve a crispy crust.
Bake the Pizza
Cook for 17-19 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The crust should turn golden brown.
Let It Cool and Enjoy
Allow the pizza to cool for a couple of minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information
Tombstone Pizza is delicious, but it is important to know its nutritional content. Here is a general breakdown per serving (1/6 of a pizza):
Calories: Around 300-350 kcal
Total Fat: 14-18g
Saturated Fat: 6-8g
Carbohydrates: 32-36g
Protein: 12-16g
Sodium: 600-800mg
The exact values depend on the flavor and toppings. While it is a tasty meal, it is best to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Where to Buy Tombstone Pizza
Tombstone Pizza is widely available in most grocery stores across the U.S. You can find it in the frozen food section of major retailers like Walmart, Kroger, Target, and Safeway. It is also available for online purchase through grocery delivery services like Instacart and Amazon Fresh.
Conclusion
Tombstone Pizza is a classic frozen pizza brand with a long history of providing delicious and convenient meals. With its thin and crispy crust, flavorful sauce, and generous toppings, it remains a favorite among pizza lovers. Whether you enjoy cheese, pepperoni, or a fully loaded supreme pizza, there is a Tombstone Pizza flavor for everyone.
Next time you are looking for a quick and satisfying meal, consider grabbing a Tombstone Pizza from your freezer and enjoy a tasty slice of history!
