7 Simple Hacks For Perfect Papa Murphys Pizza

Imagine the aroma of freshly baked pizza wafting through your kitchen. Now, what if you could elevate that experience to the next level with Papa Murphy's Pizza? Papa Murphy's offers the unique advantage of take-and-bake pizza, allowing you to finish the cooking at home, tailoring the final product to your taste. In this detailed guide, we'll delve into 7 Simple Hacks for Perfect Papa Murphy's Pizza that will transform your at-home pizza night into a gourmet experience.

Hack #1: Prepping Your Oven for the Perfect Bake

Before even opening your Papa Murphy's pizza box, it's crucial to prepare your oven. The key to a well-cooked pizza with that crispy crust is in how you manage your oven:

• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven to at least 425°F. Some ovens have a 'Pizza' setting, which maintains the optimal temperature and might include convection settings for even cooking.

• Use a Pizza Stone: If you have one, a pizza stone helps in retaining and distributing heat evenly. Place the stone in the oven during preheating to ensure it's scorching hot when you put the pizza on it.

• Positioning: The middle rack is generally the best spot, but if you like your crust a bit crispier, try baking it on the lower rack.

  <p class="pro-note">🏗️ Pro Tip: For an extra boost to crispiness, consider using a baking steel instead of a stone. Steel transfers heat even more effectively than stone.</p>

Hack #2: Customizing Your Crust

Papa Murphy's offers different crust options, but here's how you can make it even better:

• Brush with Garlic Butter: After baking, brush the crust edges with garlic butter for an aromatic touch.

• Add Flavor: Before baking, sprinkle the crust edge with garlic salt, Italian seasoning, or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

• Cornmeal Trick: Dust the pizza peel or baking tray with cornmeal to prevent sticking and for an added crunch.

  <p class="pro-note">🌿 Pro Tip: Consider infusing your garlic butter with herbs like basil or rosemary for a more complex flavor profile.</p>

Hack #3: Cheese Layering Technique

The magic of cheese can turn good pizza into spectacular:

• Double Layer: Add a light layer of shredded cheese at the bottom, then your toppings, followed by another generous layer of cheese on top. This creates a cheese barrier that helps to lock in flavors.

• Cheese Options: Mix cheeses for varied textures and flavors. Try a blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and a touch of sharp cheddar for depth.

• Finishing Touch: After baking, sprinkle fresh Parmesan or a grating of Romano cheese for that restaurant-quality finish.

  <p class="pro-note">🧀 Pro Tip: For an extra indulgent treat, try adding a light sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles on top of your pizza after baking. It adds an unexpected but delightful zing.</p>

Hack #4: Toppings for Texture and Taste

Topping choices can make or break your pizza experience:

• Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil, oregano, or parsley after baking to keep the vibrant flavors alive.

• Protein: Use high-quality meat or marinated chicken for a rich, savory taste. Or go with plant-based proteins like marinated mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian twist.

• Extra Veggies: Consider adding fresh veggies like arugula, spinach, or thinly sliced cherry tomatoes post-bake for that burst of freshness.

• Sauce Application: Spread a thin layer of sauce to prevent sogginess, but if you prefer a saucy pizza, make a small "bowl" in the center of your pizza by pushing toppings to the edges to pool extra sauce.

  <p class="pro-note">🍄 Pro Tip: Marinating your vegetables with a little balsamic vinegar before cooking adds a delightful tang that pairs wonderfully with cheese.</p>

Hack #5: Timing Your Toppings

Not all toppings are created equal in terms of cooking time:

• Pre-Cook Your Veggies: Sauté mushrooms, onions, peppers, or any other dense vegetable to remove excess moisture before adding them to your pizza.

• Raw vs. Cooked: Items like bell peppers can go on raw, while spinach might wilt too much if not pre-cooked. Consider raw vs. cooked options for optimal texture.

• Adding Deli Meats: Add salami, pepperoni, or prosciutto halfway through cooking to prevent them from getting too crispy or burnt.

  <p class="pro-note">🍅 Pro Tip: For an unconventional twist, try adding pineapple halfway through cooking. It caramelizes slightly, balancing the savory toppings with a hint of sweetness.</p>

Hack #6: Perfect Baking Time

Determining the exact baking time can be tricky, but here are some tips:

• Check Every 5 Minutes: Instead of setting a rigid time, start checking your pizza at the 15-minute mark and then every 5 minutes. The cheese should be golden brown, and the crust should have a nice color.

• Use the Broiler: If your toppings aren't browning to your liking but the crust is done, use the broiler for 30-60 seconds to finish the top, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

• Temperatures Vary: Keep in mind that oven temperatures can fluctuate, so adjust your timing accordingly.

  <p class="pro-note">🔔 Pro Tip: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature; it's often a surprise how much they can be off.</p>

Hack #7: Post-Bake Touches

The magic doesn't end once the pizza is out of the oven:

• Cooling: Let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes to help the cheese set and the flavors meld.

• Drizzle Magic: Drizzle a bit of good-quality olive oil or balsamic reduction over your pizza for an extra touch of gourmet.

• Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor and color.

  <p class="pro-note">✨ Pro Tip: A light drizzle of truffle oil over your pizza can add a luxurious layer of earthiness that's sure to impress.</p>

By implementing these 7 Simple Hacks for Perfect Papa Murphy's Pizza, you're on your way to creating an unforgettable pizza experience at home. Experiment, make it your own, and discover what makes your taste buds dance. Don't hesitate to venture into related tutorials to master your take-and-bake skills even further!

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I use a baking sheet instead of a pizza stone?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, you can! Just make sure it's preheated and use parchment paper or cornmeal to prevent sticking.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How do I prevent my pizza from becoming soggy?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Ensure not to overload the sauce, pre-cook moist vegetables, and bake on a hot surface like a stone or steel to avoid a soggy crust.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What should I do if my oven burns the pizza quickly?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Reduce the oven temperature by 25°F, check the pizza more frequently, or consider using a lower rack position.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I make Papa Murphy's pizza gluten-free?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Papa Murphy's offers a gluten-free crust, but make sure to order toppings and avoid cross-contamination if you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I add extra toppings after baking?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Definitely! Adding fresh toppings like arugula, spinach, or even arugula pesto after baking keeps them fresh and vibrant.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

<p class="pro-note">🎨 Pro Tip: Don't be afraid to mix and match these hacks for a truly personalized pizza experience!</p>