Papa Murphy’s take-and-bake pizzas are a fresh, convenient way to enjoy pizzeria-quality meals at home. Knowing Papa Murphy’s baking instructions ensures a crispy crust and melty cheese every time. This guide will walk you through the process for delicious results.
Air fryers offer a quick, energy-efficient way to cook these pizzas with a crispy texture. They’re perfect for small kitchens or when you want a fast meal. This article focuses on using an air fryer for Papa Murphy’s pizzas, with clear steps and tips.
From preparation to serving, we’ll cover everything you need to know. You’ll learn how to follow Papa Murphy’s baking instructions for various crust types. Let’s get started with making your pizza night a success.
Why Choose an Air Fryer for Papa Murphy’s Pizza?
Air fryers cook food evenly using hot air circulation, ideal for crispy pizza crusts. They heat up faster than traditional ovens, saving time and energy. This makes them a great choice for baking Papa Murphy’s pizzas.
The compact size is perfect for smaller batches or single servings. You can enjoy a fresh pizza without heating a large oven. Cleanup is also quick and easy with minimal mess.
Air fryers work well for Papa Murphy’s thin, original, and even stuffed crusts. They deliver consistent results with a golden crust and melted toppings. Just follow the right Papa Murphy’s baking instructions for your air fryer.
What You Need to Bake Papa Murphy’s Pizza in an Air Fryer
You’ll need a Papa Murphy’s pizza, any variety, such as original, thin, or stuffed crust. Ensure it fits your air fryer basket; smaller sizes like personal or medium work best. Check the pizza’s packaging for specific instructions.
An air fryer with a basket or tray is essential. Parchment paper or a silicone mat prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup. Keep tongs or a pizza peel handy for safe handling.
Optional toppings like extra cheese or herbs can enhance flavor. A pizza cutter or sharp knife is needed for slicing. Gather everything before starting for a smooth process.
Factors Affecting Air Fryer Baking Time
Crust type impacts how long it takes to bake Papa Murphy’s pizza. Thin crusts cook faster, while stuffed crusts need more time. Topping density also affects cooking duration.
The size of the pizza matters in an air fryer. Smaller pizzas or cut sections fit better and cook evenly. Large pizzas may need to be baked in batches.
Your air fryer’s model and wattage influence cooking time. Higher-wattage models cook faster, while smaller ones may require adjustments. Always check your air fryer’s manual for guidance.
Papa Murphy’s Baking Instructions for Air Fryer
To follow Papa Murphy’s baking instructions in an air fryer, set the temperature to 350°F (177°C) and cook for 8 to 15 minutes, depending on crust type. Thin crusts take about 7-10 minutes, original crusts 8-12 minutes, and stuffed crusts 12-15 minutes. Follow these steps for perfect results.
Preparing the Pizza
Remove the pizza from its plastic wrap and cardboard tray. If the pizza is too large, cut it into smaller sections to fit the air fryer basket. This ensures even cooking.
Place parchment paper or a silicone mat in the air fryer basket to prevent sticking. Lightly spray with cooking oil if needed. Arrange the pizza or sections with space for air circulation.
If refrigerated, let the pizza sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before baking. This helps the crust rise properly. Check the pizza for any additional instructions on the packaging.
Setting Up the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (177°C) for 3-5 minutes. Some models don’t require preheating, so consult your manual. Ensure the basket is clean and dry before use.
Place the pizza or sections in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overlapping to ensure even cooking. You may need to cook in batches for larger pizzas.
If your air fryer has a “bake” setting, use it for better results. Otherwise, the standard air fry mode works fine. Check the pizza halfway through to monitor progress.
Baking the Pizza
Set the timer for 8 minutes for thin or original crusts, or 12 minutes for stuffed crusts. Check for a golden crust and melted, bubbly cheese. Add 1-3 minutes if needed.
Flip or rotate the pizza sections halfway through for even browning. Use tongs or a pizza peel to handle safely. Avoid opening the air fryer too often to maintain heat.
Remove the pizza when the crust is golden and toppings are cooked through. Let it cool for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set for easier cutting.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Pizza
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup. Don’t overcrowd the basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
Check the pizza at the minimum cooking time to avoid overcooking. If the crust browns too quickly, lower the temperature by 10°F (5°C). Adjust based on your air fryer’s performance.
For extra flavor, sprinkle herbs or cheese before baking. Pop any bubbles that form during cooking with a fork. This keeps toppings in place and ensures even baking.
Cooking Times for Different Crust Types
Different Papa Murphy’s crusts require specific cooking times in an air fryer. Below is a table to guide you through Papa Murphy’s baking instructions for various crusts.
| Crust Type | Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Thin Crust | 350°F (177°C) | 7-10 minutes |
| Original Crust | 350°F (177°C) | 8-12 minutes |
| Stuffed Crust | 350°F (177°C) | 12-15 minutes |
These times are approximate and depend on your air fryer model. Check for a golden crust and melted cheese. Adjust time slightly for heavier toppings or larger pizzas.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcrowding the air fryer basket can cause uneven cooking. Place pizza sections with space between them for proper air circulation. This ensures a crispy crust.
Baking a refrigerated pizza without letting it rise can lead to a dense crust. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes. This step is crucial for texture.
Using the cardboard tray in the air fryer is unsafe, as it’s flammable. Always remove it and use parchment paper or a silicone mat. Check your air fryer’s manual for safety tips.
Adjusting for Different Air Fryer Models
Air fryer models vary in size, wattage, and design. Basket-style air fryers are common, but oven-style models may need slight adjustments. Refer to your manual for baking tips.
If your air fryer runs hot, reduce the temperature to 340°F (171°C). For lower-wattage models, add 1-2 minutes to the cooking time. Test with a small section first.
Some air fryers have a “bake” or “pizza” mode. Use these if available, or stick to the standard air fry setting. Monitor the first batch to perfect the timing.
Benefits of Baking Papa Murphy’s Pizza in an Air Fryer
Air fryers are energy-efficient and heat up quickly. They use less power than a traditional oven, saving time and energy. This makes them ideal for quick pizza nights.
They’re perfect for small households or single servings. You can cook a personal pizza or sections without extra effort. The compact size fits any kitchen space.
The air fryer’s hot air circulation creates a crispy crust and melty cheese. It’s a reliable method for Papa Murphy’s baking instructions. You’ll get consistent, delicious results.
Creative Ways to Enhance Your Pizza
Once you master Papa Murphy’s baking instructions, try customizing your pizza. Add extra cheese, fresh herbs, or veggies before baking. Keep toppings light to avoid sogginess.
Experiment with dipping sauces like marinara or ranch. A drizzle of hot honey or red pepper flakes adds a spicy kick. These touches elevate the flavor.
For a gourmet twist, try adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions. Precook raw meats to ensure they’re fully cooked. Get creative while keeping the pizza balanced.
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- Extra Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella or parmesan for a cheesier bite.
- Fresh Herbs: Add basil or oregano for extra flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Drizzle hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes after baking.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Air Fryer
Let the air fryer cool completely before cleaning. Remove the basket and wash it with warm, soapy water. Use a soft sponge to protect the non-stick coating.
Wipe the interior with a damp cloth to remove grease or crumbs. Regular cleaning keeps your air fryer in top shape. This ensures consistent baking results.
Check your manual for dishwasher-safe parts. Hand-washing is often best to maintain the appliance. Proper care extends the life of your air fryer.
Summary
Following Papa Murphy’s baking instructions in an air fryer is simple and yields a crispy, delicious pizza in 8 to 15 minutes at 350°F. Thin crusts take less time, while stuffed crusts need more. Use parchment paper, avoid overcrowding, and let the pizza rise if refrigerated. With these tips, you’ll enjoy a perfect Papa Murphy’s pizza at home.
FAQ
Can I bake a whole Papa Murphy’s pizza in an air fryer?
For smaller air fryers, cut the pizza into sections to fit the basket. Larger models may accommodate a whole medium pizza. Ensure proper air circulation for even cooking.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating to 350°F for 3-5 minutes is recommended but not always necessary. Check your air fryer’s manual. Preheating helps achieve a crispy crust.
Can I use the cardboard tray in the air fryer?
No, the cardboard tray is flammable and unsafe for air fryers. Use parchment paper or a silicone mat. This prevents sticking and ensures safety.
How do I store an unbaked Papa Murphy’s pizza?
Refrigerate within 60 minutes of purchase for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, double-wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
Can I reheat Papa Murphy’s pizza in an air fryer?
Yes, reheat slices at 325°F for 3-5 minutes. Place in a single layer for even heating. This keeps the crust crispy and cheese melty.