When it comes to convenience and flavor, few options rival Papa Murphy’s stuffed pizza. With its generous layers of toppings, gooey cheese, and perfectly baked crust, it’s a favorite for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. But to achieve pizza perfection, it’s essential to follow the right cooking techniques. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to bake Papa Murphy’s stuffed pizza to golden-brown perfection.
Specific Cooking Times and Temperatures
To unleash the full potential of your Papa Murphy’s stuffed pizza, it’s crucial to get the cooking temperature and time just right. The recommended oven temperature for baking Papa Murphy’s stuffed pizza is 425°F (218°C). However, for convection ovens, you may want to reduce the temperature slightly to 400°F (204°C) and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
The baking time typically ranges from 25 to 35 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the pizza, as well as your desired level of crust crispness. Keep a close eye on the pizza towards the end of the baking time to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
Preparation Steps
Before diving into the baking process, there are a few essential preparation steps to follow:
Remove the pizza from its plastic wrap carefully, taking care not to damage the toppings.
Place the unwrapped pizza on a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone to ensure even cooking.
Allow the pizza to rest at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before baking. This helps the dough relax and ensures a better rise during baking.
Tips for Checking Doneness
Determining when your Papa Murphy’s stuffed pizza is perfectly cooked requires a keen eye and a few simple tricks:
Check the cheese: When the cheese on top of the pizza turns a golden brown color and starts to bubble, it’s a good indicator that the pizza is nearly done.
Test the crust: Gently lift the edge of the pizza to check if the crust is golden brown and firm to the touch. If it still feels doughy or looks pale, it needs more time in the oven.
Use a thermometer: For added assurance, you can use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the pizza reaches at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it’s cooked through.
Additional Information
If Papa Murphy’s offers various stuffed pizza options, such as different toppings or crust types, be sure to adjust the cooking times and instructions accordingly. Thicker pizzas or those with extra toppings may require slightly longer baking times to ensure thorough cooking.
Troubleshooting Tips
Even with careful preparation, issues like over or undercooking can occasionally arise. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you overcome common challenges:
If the crust is browning too quickly but the toppings still need more time to cook, loosely tent aluminum foil over the pizza to prevent further browning while allowing the toppings to continue cooking.
If the crust is undercooked but the toppings are done, place the pizza back in the oven for a few more minutes, checking frequently to avoid burning the toppings.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your freshly baked Papa Murphy’s stuffed pizza with a variety of sides, drinks, and dipping sauces to elevate your dining experience. Some popular options include:
Garlic breadsticks or cheesy bread for an indulgent appetizer.
Crisp garden salad tossed with your favorite dressing for a refreshing accompaniment.
Ice-cold beverages like soda, beer, or sparkling water to quench your thirst.
Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for dipping crusts or adding extra flavor.
Safety Precautions
While the aroma of freshly baked pizza is enticing, it’s essential to handle it with care to avoid burns and ensure food safety:
Always use oven mitts or kitchen towels when handling hot baking sheets or pizza stones.
Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving to prevent burns.
Store any leftover pizza promptly in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before consuming to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
Conclusion
By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of baking Papa Murphy’s stuffed pizza. So preheat your oven, gather your favorite toppings, and get ready to indulge in a slice of pizza perfection!
FAQs
Can you cook a Papa Murphy’s pizza at 350?
Yes, you can cook a Papa Murphy’s pizza at 350°F. It’s a common temperature for baking pizzas, including those from Papa Murphy’s. Just follow the instructions provided with your specific pizza for the best results.
How long do you cook a Papa Murphy’s thin crust pizza?
For a Papa Murphy’s thin crust pizza, the recommended baking time typically ranges from 12 to 18 minutes at 425°F. However, if you’re baking at 350°F, you may need to adjust the time accordingly, possibly adding a few extra minutes to ensure the crust is properly cooked.
How long do you bake a frozen Papa Murphy’s pizza?
When baking a frozen Papa Murphy’s pizza, the suggested baking time is generally around 30 to 40 minutes at 425°F. If you’re baking at 350°F, you’ll likely need to increase the baking time to ensure the pizza is thoroughly cooked and the crust is crisp.