1. Cooking Time and Temperature:
Papa Murphy’s, renowned for their fresh, take-and-bake pizzas, offers a variety of crust options, each with its own optimal cooking time and temperature. Here’s a breakdown:
Original Crust: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pizza directly on the middle rack and bake for 12-18 minutes. Variations in toppings may affect the cooking time, so keep an eye on it after the 12-minute mark.
Thin Crust: For a crispier crust, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the pizza directly on the middle rack for 7-12 minutes. The shorter cooking time ensures the delicate thin crust doesn’t overcook.
Stuffed Crust: Stuffed crust pizzas require a slightly longer cooking time. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the pizza on the middle rack for 25-30 minutes. The added thickness of the stuffed crust needs a slower bake to ensure the filling is heated through.
Pan Crust: This hearty option demands a lower temperature and longer cooking time. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the pizza on the middle rack for 25-30 minutes. The deep-dish style crust benefits from a slower bake to achieve the perfect golden brown.
2. Oven Preparation:
Properly preheating your oven is crucial for a perfectly cooked Papa Murphy’s pizza. Follow these steps:
Preheat the Oven: Turn your oven on at least 15 minutes before baking to ensure it reaches the desired temperature. This allows for even heat distribution, essential for a uniformly cooked pizza.
Select the Rack: For optimal results, place the pizza directly on the middle rack of your oven. This position allows heat to circulate evenly around the pizza, preventing uneven cooking.
Enhance Crispiness: For an extra crispy crust, place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven during preheating. Once hot, carefully transfer the pizza onto the preheated stone or sheet before baking. This method mimics the effect of a traditional pizza oven, yielding a delightfully crisp crust.
3. Cooking Instructions:
Follow these step-by-step instructions for a flawless Papa Murphy’s pizza baking experience:
Removing the Pizza: Carefully remove the plastic wrap or aluminum foil from the pizza packaging. Take caution not to damage the pizza while unwrapping.
Placing the Pizza: Once unwrapped, transfer the pizza onto a baking tray if not already on one. If using a pizza stone or baking sheet for a crispier crust, ensure it’s preheated before placing the pizza on it.
Baking the Pizza: Slide the pizza into the preheated oven, positioning it on the middle rack. Set a timer based on the recommended cooking time for your chosen crust type.
Checking for Doneness: Keep a close eye on the pizza as it bakes. Look for visual cues such as golden brown crust and bubbling cheese. You can also use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the pizza is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the oven using oven mitts or a pizza peel. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Pair with your favorite beverage and enjoy a delicious homemade pizza experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering the art of cooking Papa Murphy’s pizza involves understanding the specific cooking requirements for each crust type, properly preheating the oven, and following precise cooking instructions. By adhering to these guidelines, you can consistently achieve restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to savor the irresistible taste of freshly baked Papa Murphy’s pizza.
FAQs
Do you leave Papa Murphy’s pizza on that tray?
Yes, you should leave Papa Murphy’s pizza on the tray provided. The tray helps to maintain the shape of the pizza and prevents it from sticking to the oven rack, ensuring even baking.
How long does a mini Murph take to cook?
A mini Murph typically takes around 25-30 minutes to cook. However, it’s always best to follow the specific instructions provided by Papa Murphy’s, as cooking times can vary depending on factors such as oven temperature and pizza toppings.
What temperature do you bake Papa Murphy’s crustless pizza?
Papa Murphy’s recommends baking their crustless pizza at 425°F (218°C) for optimal results. This temperature allows the pizza to cook evenly and ensures that the toppings are heated thoroughly without burning. Always refer to the instructions provided with the pizza for the best outcome.