Papa Murphy’s pizzas are a fresh, customizable option for pizza lovers. Their take ‘n’ bake model lets you enjoy hot, crispy pizza at home. Mastering Papa Murphy’s cooking instructions ensures a delicious, pizzeria-quality meal every time.
These pizzas are made with scratch dough, fresh toppings, and never frozen. From classic pepperoni to stuffed crust, there’s a style for everyone. Proper cooking techniques bring out the best in their signature crusts and flavors.
This guide will walk you through baking Papa Murphy’s pizzas using various methods. We’ll cover oven, grill, and air fryer techniques for perfect results. Let’s make your pizza night a hit with these easy steps.
Why Choose Papa Murphy’s Pizza
Papa Murphy’s stands out for its fresh, never-frozen ingredients. The dough is made daily, and toppings are hand-prepared in-store. This ensures a high-quality pizza you bake at home.
Their menu offers variety, including original, thin, stuffed, and gluten-free crusts. Favorites like Cowboy, Hawaiian, and Create Your Own cater to all tastes. You can customize toppings for a personal touch.
The take ‘n’ bake concept is convenient for busy schedules. Pick up your pizza, bake when ready, and enjoy fresh flavors. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Selecting and Storing Your Pizza
Choose a Papa Murphy’s pizza based on your group size and flavor preference. A 16-inch family-size pizza serves 4-6, while a 12-inch medium suits 2-3. Check the packaging for freshness and topping details.
Refrigerate the pizza within 60 minutes of purchase if not baking immediately. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, request double-wrapping and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw frozen pizzas in the fridge for 24 hours, then let sit at room temperature for 60 minutes before baking. This ensures the crust rises properly. Always bake within 24 hours of refrigeration for best results.
Tools and Ingredients Needed
Cooking Papa Murphy’s pizza requires minimal tools. You’ll need an oven, baking sheet, or pizza stone, and a pizza cutter. The included baking tray helps achieve a crispy crust.
No extra ingredients are needed, as the pizza is fully prepared. Optional add-ins like extra cheese, herbs, or veggies can enhance flavor. Parchment paper or cooking spray prevents sticking.
Here’s a quick list of essentials:
- Papa Murphy’s pizza (any variety)
- Baking sheet or pizza stone
- Optional: extra toppings like oregano or red pepper flakes
Papa Murphy’s Cooking Instructions
Cooking Papa Murphy’s pizza is simple with the right steps for a crispy, golden crust. Baking times vary by crust type, typically 12-40 minutes in an oven. Below are detailed Papa Murphy’s cooking instructions for oven, air fryer, and grill methods.
Oven Cooking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for original or thin crust pizzas. For stuffed crust, set to 350°F (175°C) to prevent overcooking. Remove the plastic wrap but keep the pizza on its tray.
Place the pizza on the center oven rack for original crust, or lower rack for thin crust. Bake original crust for 12-18 minutes, thin crust for 10-14 minutes, or stuffed crust for 32-40 minutes. Check for a golden crust and melted cheese.
Let the pizza cool for 5 minutes before slicing. If bubbles form, pop them with a fork to prevent toppings from sliding. Rotate halfway through for even cooking if your oven heats unevenly.
Air Fryer Cooking Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (177°C) for 3-5 minutes. Remove the pizza from the plastic wrap and tray if it fits the basket. For larger pizzas, cut into sections to fit.
Cook for 8-12 minutes, checking halfway for even browning. Ensure the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy. Rotate or flip sections if needed for uniform cooking.
Let the pizza rest for 3-5 minutes before cutting. Use a pizza peel or tongs to remove it safely. This method yields a crispy crust in less time than an oven.
Grill Cooking Instructions
Preheat a gas, charcoal, or pellet grill to 425-450°F, using indirect heat. Remove the pizza from its tray, as it’s not grill-safe. Place on a pizza stone or metal pan lightly dusted with cornmeal.
Grill for 20-30 minutes, rotating every 5-7 minutes for even cooking. Check for a golden crust and melted cheese. Use a pizza peel to remove it safely from the grill.
Let the pizza cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Monitor closely, as grills vary in heat intensity. This method adds a smoky flavor to the pizza.
Cooking Times by Crust Type
The table below shows approximate cooking times for Papa Murphy’s pizzas:
| Crust Type | Oven Time (425°F/350°F) | Air Fryer (350°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Original Crust | 12-18 minutes | 8-12 minutes |
| Thin Crust | 10-14 minutes | 7-10 minutes |
| Stuffed Crust | 32-40 minutes | 12-15 minutes |
Tips for Perfect Pizza
Always preheat your oven or grill fully to ensure a crispy crust. This prevents a doughy texture and promotes even cooking. Don’t skip this step, even if you’re in a hurry.
Keep the pizza on its tray for oven baking to maintain shape. For grills or air fryers, transfer to a stone or pan for better results. This avoids sticking and ensures crispiness.
Check the pizza at the minimum cooking time to prevent burning. If toppings slide, gently reposition them before baking. Let it cool slightly to set the cheese before slicing.
Enhancing Your Papa Murphy’s Pizza
Papa Murphy’s pizzas are flavorful, but you can add a personal touch. Sprinkle extra mozzarella or parmesan before baking for a cheesier bite. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano enhance the flavor.
Add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Precook raw meats like sausage to ensure they’re fully cooked. Keep toppings light to avoid a soggy crust.
Serve with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or garlic butter. A drizzle of hot honey adds a sweet-spicy kick. These additions elevate the pizza without overpowering it.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Don’t bake the pizza in its tray on a grill, as it’s flammable. Transfer to a pizza stone or metal pan for safe grilling. This prevents damage and ensures even cooking.
Avoid baking without letting the crust rise if refrigerated. Let it sit at room temperature for 60 minutes first. This ensures a light, airy texture.
Don’t overcook, as it can dry out the crust. Check for doneness early and use a thermometer if needed (165°F internally). Rotate the pizza for even heat distribution.
Serving Suggestions
Papa Murphy’s pizza is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Pair with a side salad, garlic bread, or wings for a complete meal. Serve with drinks like soda or iced tea.
Cut into even slices or squares for easy sharing. Garnish with fresh parsley or red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor. Keep warm in a low oven for buffets.
Leftovers can be repurposed into pizza quesadillas or breakfast bakes. Reheat slices for a quick meal. This versatility makes Papa Murphy’s a crowd-pleaser.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store leftover pizza in an airtight container or resealable bag in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap slices in foil and freeze for 1-2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes for a crispy crust. Alternatively, use an air fryer at 325°F for 3-5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the crust.
Use leftovers in recipes like pizza nachos or salads. Reheat to 165°F for safety and flavor. This keeps the pizza tasting fresh and delicious.
Nutritional Considerations
Papa Murphy’s pizzas vary in nutrition based on crust and toppings. A slice of a 16-inch original crust pizza averages 250-350 calories. Check the website’s nutrition page for specific details.
Thin crust options are lower in calories, while stuffed crust is richer. Pair with a light side like a salad for balance. Gluten-free crusts are available for dietary needs.
Moderation is key, especially with meat-heavy varieties. Review labels for allergens like dairy or gluten. This ensures safe enjoyment for all guests.
Exploring Papa Murphy’s Varieties
Papa Murphy’s offers a range of crusts and flavors. Original crust is thick and chewy, while thin crust is crisp and light. Stuffed crust, like the 5-Meat or Chicago-Style, is hearty and cheesy.
Specialty pizzas include Cowboy (pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms) and Hawaiian (pineapple, ham). Gluten-free and keto-friendly crustless options cater to dietary restrictions. Customize for endless combinations.
Each crust type follows similar Papa Murphy’s cooking instructions. Adjust times slightly for thicker crusts. Check the menu for seasonal or local specials.
Scaling for Different Group Sizes
A 16-inch family-size pizza serves 4-6, while a 12-inch medium feeds 2-3. For large gatherings, order multiple pizzas and bake in batches. Use multiple oven racks for efficiency.
Plan for 2-3 slices per person as a main dish. Pair with sides like cookie dough or cheesy bread to stretch the meal. Keep extras refrigerated or frozen.
For smaller servings, order a Mini Murph for kids or individuals. Bake within 24 hours for freshness. This ensures everyone gets enough without waste.
Summary
Papa Murphy’s cooking instructions make it easy to enjoy fresh, take ‘n’ bake pizza at home. Bake at 425°F for original or thin crust, or 350°F for stuffed, and use the provided tray for ovens. Alternative methods like air fryer or grill offer crispy results with adjusted times. With tips for customization, storage, and serving, Papa Murphy’s pizza is a versatile, delicious choice for any occasion.
FAQ
How long does it take to bake a Papa Murphy’s pizza?
Original and thin crust pizzas bake at 425°F for 12-18 minutes, stuffed crust at 350°F for 32-40 minutes. Air fryers take 8-15 minutes at 350°F. Check for a golden crust and 165°F internal temperature.
Can I grill a Papa Murphy’s pizza?
Yes, grill at 425-450°F on a pizza stone or metal pan for 20-30 minutes. Rotate every 5-7 minutes for even cooking. Remove the tray, as it’s not grill-safe.
How do I store a Papa Murphy’s pizza?
Refrigerate within 60 minutes of purchase for up to 24 hours. For freezing, double-wrap and store for 1-2 months. Thaw in the fridge for 24 hours before baking.
Why is my pizza crust doughy?
A doughy crust may result from insufficient preheating or high rack placement. Preheat fully and use the center or lower rack. Let refrigerated pizzas rise for 60 minutes before baking.