How to Reheat Pizza Perfectly Every Time 

Leftover pizza is delicious, but if you’re like most people, you’ve probably found that reheated slices pale compared to a fresh-out-of-the-oven pie. If you don’t do it right, the pizza can get soggy or dry out and loses its flavor.

The good news is that once you learn a few tricks, you’ll be able to reheat your pizza, so it tastes almost as good as it did the first time. Here are a few of the top methods you can use. 

How to reheat pizza in the oven

When you use this method for reheating pizza in the oven, you’ll end up with moist toppings, melty cheese, and a tender crust that is crispy on the bottom. The key is to reheat pizza in a pan, specifically a rimmed baking sheet, and tightly wrap the top of the baking sheet with aluminum foil. 

Make sure not to preheat the oven. Instead, start with a cold oven and place the wrapped pan on the lowest rack. Set the oven temperature to 275°F and let the pizza warm for about 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese has melted and the bottom is crisp.

How to reheat pizza in a skillet

If you’re only reheating a slice or two and don’t want to use the oven, reheating pizza on the stovetop can be a great option. One caveat, though – you need a cast iron skillet and a cover that fits. While you could use a stainless-steel skillet, you’ll need to add oil so the pizza doesn’t stick. Also, keep in mind that nonstick skillets aren’t great for preheating to high temperatures, so using this type of pan isn’t recommended.

Start by preheating your skillet to medium heat, then place the pizza in the pan. Leave it uncovered until the crust begins the crisp and the cheese just starts to melt. Then, add a few drops of water to the pan, as far away from the pizza as possible. Do not put the water on the pizza, or it will stick to the pan and make a mess. Turn the heat down to low and cover the pan with a lid. Let the pizza cook for about one more minute, allowing the cheese to steam-melt.

How to reheat pizza in an air fryer

Using an air fryer to reheat your pizza is faster than using the oven and will give you better results than microwaving. Start by putting a piece of aluminum foil or parchment paper air fryer liners in the basket to prevent the pizza from sticking when the cheese starts to melt. If you use foil, cut plenty of holes in it to allow for proper airflow, as this makes the bottom of the pizza get crispy.

Although this step is optional, you may also want to lightly coat the top of the pizza with cooking spray, so the toppings don’t dry out. Then, air fry the slices at 360°F for three to six minutes or until the pizza has reached the desired crispiness. If you’re cooking multiple batches, note that after the first time, the cooking time may be shorter since the air fryer is already hot.

If you’re reheating a thick-crust pizza and don’t want the toppings to get extra crispy, remove the pepperoni, cheese, and other toppings before putting the crust in the air fryer. Cook it for about half the recommended time, then put the toppings back on the slice and finish air frying. 

How to reheat pizza on the grill

Want to get outside and enjoy some fresh air? Why not try reheating your pizza on the gas grill? You may not have thought of this method before, but it works. Start by setting the grill to medium-high heat and make sure it’s fully preheated before putting the pizza directly on the grate. Grill for five to seven minutes until the pizza is heated through and the crust is crispy.

How to reheat pizza in the microwave

Unfortunately, pizza reheated in the microwave doesn’t always turn out that great. Because of the way microwaves work, the pizza will almost always be tougher and a bit soggier than it would if you used one of the other methods above. But – it is super quick, easy, and convenient.

To get the best possible results, start by placing the slice on top of a paper towel that has been placed on a microwave-safe plate. This will help absorb some of the excess moisture, combatting sogginess. 

Place the plate in the microwave and cook for about 30 seconds before checking to see if it has reached its desired doneness. If not, heat in 15-second intervals, checking on the pizza each time. Don’t want to give up on the crispy crust? Try partially heating your pizza in the microwave, then finishing it off in a toaster oven on medium heat until the crust crisps up, being careful not to overcook it. 

What’s the best way to reheat pizza?  

Now that we’ve looked at several different ways to reheat pizza, you’re probably wondering which option is best. Many agree that reheating pizza using the oven method above creates the best results. However, the right method for you will depend on how you like your pizza cooked, how much time you have, and the tools you have available to you. Every method listed here works, and they’ll all give you a hot slice of pizza in about 10 minutes or less.

Tips for properly storing leftover pizza

Learning how to reheat pizza the right way is a huge step, but properly storing your leftover pizza will also make a big difference. Never leave your leftover pizza in the box it was delivered in, or it will end up dry and stale. Instead, put the slices in a resealable plastic bag or wrap them first in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will help preserve the pizza’s freshness, so you’re reheating the best possible slices.

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Satisfy your pizza craving today!

Did this guide leave you in the mood for pizza but without a leftover slice in sight? No worries! Just head to Instacart.com, put a frozen pizza or the ingredients to whip up a freshly made pie into your cart, and our professional shoppers will deliver it right to your door. It’s easy, affordable, and will help you quickly satisfy your pizza craving. 

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