Pizza is a delicacy that can be enjoyed at any time of the day or night, and is still delicious when eaten cold every now and then. However, reheating leftover pizza can make it mushy, chewy, or dry. Whether you make your own pizza or buy it in the middle of the night, you can keep leftover pizza as delicious as freshly bought by storing it properly and heating it carefully.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Saving Pizza
Step 1. Spread the paper towels on a plate or airtight container
If you're willing to take the time to save your leftover pizza, you can still enjoy leftover pizza with a like-new taste and texture similar to the original. Start by placing a sheet of tissue or parchment paper in the bottom of a container or plate large enough to hold the remaining pizza slices.
- You might be tempted to put the pizza in the box right away in the fridge. However, this action can make the pizza mushy. The moisture in the vegetables, tomato sauce, and meat will seep into the crust (bottom of the pizza), causing it to not return to its original texture, even if you use different methods of heating it.
- If you're planning to freeze your pizza, it's best to use an airtight container instead of a plate.
In a hurry?
Let the pizza cool to room temperature, then place the pizza slices in a plastic ziploc bag. Maybe the pizza will be a little drier, unlike when you covered it with paper towels. However, the pizza will be fresher than if you put it in the refrigerator with the box.
Step 2. Stack the pizza on a plate by placing a paper towel between each layer
Place a layer of pizza on a plate, then place a layer of paper towels on top. If there is more than one layer of pizza, continue to stack the pizzas and paper towels until all the slices have been laid out.
If necessary, divide the pizza into several containers or plates
Step 3. Cover the plate with plastic wrap or the lid of the container
Once all the pizza slices are finished stacking, wrap plastic wrap all over the plate or container. This keeps the pizza fresh because no air gets into the container.
If using an airtight container, just close the container
Step 4. Put the pizza in the refrigerator if you want to eat it within 3 to 5 days
Storing it in the refrigerator can keep pizza for up to five days, and it won't change much in texture than if you froze it. However, pizza can't last much longer. So, only store pizza in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it or freeze it in a few days.
If you haven't eaten the pizza by the third day, it's best to throw it away or put it in the freezer
Step 5. Store the pizza in the freezer to keep it fresh within 6 months
Frozen pizza can last up to 6 months. So this is a good option if you have too much pizza and don't know when to eat it.
- If you initially stored the pizza on a plate, transfer the pizza to an airtight container. However, place a paper towel between each pizza slice.
- For best results, defrost the pizza for about 1 hour by letting it sit on the counter before you heat it.
Tip:
If you buy frozen pizza, it usually lasts in the freezer for about 1 year. However, these pizzas are commercially frozen and are designed to last a long time. If you want to be safe, eat pizza that you freeze yourself within six months.
Method 2 of 2: Reheat Leftover Pizza
Step 1. Preheat the pizza in the oven to keep the crust crispy
Preheat the oven to 177 °C for 5 to 10 minutes to allow it to heat evenly. When ready, place the pizza on a baking sheet, and place it in the oven for about 5 minutes. Whether you warm the pizza whole or just one slice, the oven works great because the pizza will be crispy with bubbling cheese, much like the original.
- If you have a pizza stone, place the pizza on it. This stone spreads the heat evenly so that the crust on the pizza is crispier.
- For easier cleaning, spread parchment paper on a baking sheet before you place the pizza on it.
Tip:
Remove and discard any toppings that look soggy, wilted, or dry before you heat the pizza.
Step 2. Use a toaster oven if you want to heat 1 or 2 slices of pizza quickly
Preheat the toaster oven (small oven) to 204 °C, then add the pizza. Let the pizza sit in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until the top looks bubbly and toasted.
Because toaster ovens are small in size, they are best suited for heating pizzas that will be eaten by only one person
Step 3. Heat the pizza using a frying pan to get a good texture
Heat a cast iron skillet or frying pan on the stove over medium heat. When it's hot, put 1 or 2 pizza slices in the pan and place a lid on it. Heat the pizza for 6 to 8 minutes without opening the lid. When you're done, you'll have a great pizza with a bubbly top and warm toppings, and a beautiful, crunchy crust.
- Covering the pan will allow the topping to heat evenly, and be crispy at the bottom of the crust. If the pan doesn't have a lid, you can use aluminum foil to cover it.
- After 6-8 minutes, if the crust is still mushy, but the toppings are warm, remove the pan and continue heating the pizza for a few more minutes.
Step 4. Microwave the pizza if you want quick results
The microwave will change the texture of the pizza so that the crust is tough and chewy. This method is not liked by pizza lovers. However, if you're in a hurry, this method can be a good option. To get a good texture when using the microwave, place a paper towel between the plate and the pizza, turn on the microwave at 50% power, and heat the pizza for only 1 minute.
Tip:
To prevent the crust from getting soggy when the pizza is heated in the microwave, try adding a cup of water. Place the pizza in a microwave-safe glass half filled with water. The water will absorb the bouncing microwaves so the pizza can heat up more evenly.
