If you’ve ever found yourself with leftover Papa Murphy’s pizza or wanted to stock up for future convenience, you may have wondered, “Can you freeze a Papa Murphy’s pizza?” The good news is, yes, you can freeze a Papa Murphy’s pizza, and doing so can be a great way to enjoy their delicious pies at your convenience. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of freezing Papa Murphy’s pizzas, including how to do it correctly, what to expect in terms of taste and texture, and tips for reheating to perfection.
Understanding Papa Murphy’s Pizza
Papa Murphy’s is a unique pizza chain that stands out in the crowded pizza market for its “take and bake” concept. Unlike traditional pizza joints where the pizza comes hot and ready to eat, Papa Murphy’s prepares the pizza fresh for you to bake at home. This means the pizza is never pre-cooked, allowing for a fresher taste and the convenience of baking it at your preferred time.
Why Freeze Papa Murphy’s Pizza?
There are several reasons why you might want to freeze a Papa Murphy’s pizza:
Meal Planning and Convenience: Freezing pizzas can help with meal planning and provide a quick meal option on busy days.
Saving Leftovers: If you have leftover pizza, freezing it can prevent waste and allow you to enjoy it later.
Buying in Bulk: If you come across a sale or promotion, you can buy several pizzas and freeze them for future use.
Preserving Freshness: Sometimes, you might not want to bake the pizza immediately. Freezing it can help maintain its freshness until you’re ready to eat.
See Also: What is Papa Murphy’s Cookie Dough: A Simple Guide
How to Freeze a Papa Murphy’s Pizza
Freezing a Papa Murphy’s pizza properly ensures that it retains its quality and taste. Here are the steps to do it correctly:
Preparation:
If you plan to freeze the pizza before baking it, keep it on the original tray provided by Papa Murphy’s. This tray is designed for baking and freezing.
Wrap the pizza tightly in plastic wrap. Make sure there are no gaps where air can get in, as this can cause freezer burn.
After wrapping in plastic wrap, cover the pizza with aluminum foil. This additional layer helps protect against freezer burn and preserves the pizza’s flavor.
Labeling:
Clearly label the wrapped pizza with the date you are freezing it. This will help you keep track of how long it has been in the freezer.
Note any special instructions, such as the type of pizza or specific toppings, if you have multiple pizzas frozen.
Freezing:
Place the wrapped pizza in the coldest part of your freezer. Try to keep it flat to prevent any toppings from shifting.
Ensure that the pizza is not stacked under heavy items that could crush it.
How Long Can You Freeze Papa Murphy’s Pizza?
For the best quality, it is recommended to consume frozen Papa Murphy’s pizza within 2-3 months. While it is safe to eat beyond this timeframe if kept constantly frozen, the taste and texture may start to degrade.
Thawing and Baking Frozen Papa Murphy’s Pizza
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Papa Murphy’s pizza, follow these steps to ensure it bakes perfectly:
Thawing:
For best results, thaw the pizza in the refrigerator for 24 hours before baking. This slow thawing process helps preserve the texture and flavor of the pizza.
If you’re in a hurry, you can bake the pizza directly from frozen, but you will need to adjust the baking time.
Baking:
Preheat your oven to the temperature recommended on the Papa Murphy’s baking instructions (typically 425°F).
Remove all wrapping materials, including the plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Place the pizza on the original baking tray (or directly on the oven rack if you prefer a crisper crust).
If baking from thawed, follow the original baking instructions. This usually involves baking for 12-18 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If baking from frozen, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time. Check the pizza frequently to ensure it does not overcook.
Tips for the Best Results
Use a Pizza Stone or Baking Steel: If you have a pizza stone or baking steel, use it to bake your pizza. Preheating the stone or steel in the oven can help achieve a crispier crust.
Monitor the Pizza Closely: Ovens can vary in temperature and heat distribution. Keep an eye on the pizza, especially if baking from frozen, to avoid burning.
Let the Pizza Cool: After baking, let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set and makes it easier to cut.
Quality Considerations
While freezing and baking a Papa Murphy’s pizza is straightforward, it’s important to manage your expectations regarding quality. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Crust Texture: The crust may not be as crisp as when baked fresh, especially if frozen for a long time. Using a pizza stone or baking steel can help mitigate this.
Cheese and Toppings: The cheese and toppings may also experience slight changes in texture. Cheese might become slightly grainy, and vegetables may lose some of their firmness.
Flavor: While the flavor will remain good, it may not be as vibrant as a freshly baked pizza. Seasoning with additional herbs or spices before baking can enhance the flavor.
Conclusion
Freezing a Papa Murphy’s pizza is a convenient way to enjoy your favorite pizza on your schedule. By following the proper steps for freezing, thawing, and baking, you can ensure that your pizza retains its delicious taste and texture. Whether you choose to freeze it before or after baking, Papa Murphy’s pizzas can be a versatile and tasty addition to your freezer meal options. So next time you have an extra pizza or want to plan for a future meal, don’t hesitate to freeze your Papa Murphy’s pizza and enjoy it whenever you like.
FAQs
Can you freeze a take and bake pizza?
Yes, you can freeze a take and bake pizza. To do this, wrap the pizza tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped pizza in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, thaw the pizza in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight before baking according to the original instructions.
What’s the best way to reheat a Papa Murphy’s pizza?
The best way to reheat a Papa Murphy’s pizza is to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pizza on a baking sheet or pizza stone and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. For best results, avoid using the microwave as it can make the crust soggy.
Can you freeze leftover Papa John’s pizza?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Papa John’s pizza. To freeze, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents the slices from sticking together and protects them from freezer burn. When ready to eat, reheat the slices in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.