Costco Deep Dish Pizza Cooking Instructions: Ultimate Guide

Costco’s Motor City Pizza Co. deep dish pizza is a fan favorite. Its thick, crispy crust and generous toppings bring Detroit-style flavor home. Perfect for pizza nights or gatherings, it’s a hearty, convenient meal.

These frozen pizzas come in a two-pack, each in its own oven-safe tray. Varieties like Double Pepperoni and Ultimate Meat offer bold flavors. They’re easy to prepare, delivering restaurant-quality results in minutes.

This guide provides clear Costco deep dish pizza cooking instructions. We’ll cover oven, air fryer, and microwave methods, plus tips for a perfect crust. You’ll also find serving ideas and storage advice for leftovers.

Why Choose Costco Deep Dish Pizza?

Costco’s Motor City Pizza Co. pizzas are Detroit-style, with a thick, airy crust. Topped edge-to-edge with cheese and meats, they’re filling and flavorful. Each pizza weighs around 26-30 ounces, serving 4-6 people.

The pizzas are sold in pairs for about $12.99-$14.99, offering great value. The included baking tray ensures a crispy crust without extra cleanup. They’re a go-to for quick, satisfying meals.

Varieties include Double Pepperoni, Ultimate Meat, Four Cheese, and Supreme. Each is fully cooked and frozen for convenience. Let’s explore the types available.

Types of Costco Deep Dish Pizzas

Costco offers several Motor City Pizza Co. varieties. Each has unique toppings to suit different tastes. Here’s a quick look at the options.

Double Pepperoni: Loaded with sliced and diced pepperoni over mozzarella. It has 606 calories per serving and a buttery, garlicky crust. Ideal for pepperoni lovers.

Ultimate Meat: Packed with pepperoni, sausage, and bacon. This 30-ounce pizza is meat-heavy with 410 calories per slice. Perfect for carnivores.

Four Cheese: Features a blend of mozzarella and other cheeses for a creamy bite. It’s lighter at 25.84 ounces, great for cheese enthusiasts. The crust stays crispy and flavorful.

Supreme: Includes pepperoni, sausage, bell peppers, and red onions. It balances meat and veggies for a 29.44-ounce pizza. A versatile choice for groups.

Costco Deep Dish Pizza Cooking Instructions

Cooking Costco deep dish pizza is simple with the right steps. Below are the detailed Costco deep dish pizza cooking instructions for various methods. Follow these for a crispy crust and melted cheese every time.

Oven Method

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) with the rack in the center. Remove the pizza from its plastic wrap but keep it in the provided tray. Place the tray on the center rack, ensuring it doesn’t touch the oven’s sides or back.

Bake for 18-21 minutes until the cheese is melted and edges are golden brown. Check the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety. Remove from the oven and let stand for 2-3 minutes before slicing.

For extra crispiness, place a pizza stone in the oven during preheating. Slide the pizza tray onto the stone. Use caution, as the tray and pizza will be hot.

Air Fryer Method

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3-5 minutes. Remove the pizza from its plastic wrap and place it in the air fryer basket, tray included. Spray the basket with cooking spray for a crispier crust.

Cook for 6-8 minutes until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden. Check the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Carefully remove the pizza and let it rest for 2 minutes before cutting.

Ensure the pizza fits without touching the air fryer’s walls. Cook one pizza at a time for best results. This method delivers a quick, crunchy crust.

Microwave Method

Remove the pizza from its packaging and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 7-8 minutes, checking for melted cheese and a 165°F internal temperature. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying.

Let the pizza stand for 1-2 minutes before slicing. This method is fastest but may result in a softer crust. It’s ideal for quick, small servings.

Adjust times based on your microwave’s wattage. Avoid using the provided tray in the microwave, as it’s not microwave-safe. Serve hot for the best flavor.

Cooking Times and Temperatures Table

Pizza TypeMethodTime and Temperature
All VarietiesOven18-21 min at 425°F (165°F internal)
All VarietiesAir Fryer6-8 min at 400°F (165°F internal)
All VarietiesMicrowave7-8 min on high (165°F internal)

Tips for a Perfect Costco Deep Dish Pizza

These tips ensure a crispy crust and gooey cheese. They’re easy to follow and elevate your pizza. Keep them in mind for the best results.

  • Keep It Frozen: Cook straight from frozen for the best texture. Thawing can make the crust soggy and affect the dough’s quality.
  • Use a Pizza Stone: Preheat a pizza stone at 425°F for a crunchier crust. Slide the pizza tray onto the stone for even browning.
  • Rotate for Even Cooking: Turn the pizza 180 degrees halfway through baking. This ensures even heat distribution, especially in older ovens.
  • Check Doneness: Use a food thermometer to confirm 165°F internally. If the cheese is bubbling and edges are golden, it’s likely done.

Enhancing Your Costco Deep Dish Pizza

Costco deep dish pizzas are delicious as is, but you can customize them. These simple additions add flair and flavor. Try them for a personal touch.

Extra Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan over the pizza before baking. Add during the last 5 minutes to avoid burning. This boosts the cheesy goodness.

Veggie Boost: Top with fresh mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions before cooking. Lightly sauté wet ingredients to prevent excess moisture. This adds freshness and crunch.

Spicy Kick: Drizzle hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes after baking. Serve with a side of ranch for dipping. Perfect for heat lovers.

Serving Suggestions

Costco deep dish pizzas are versatile for any meal. They pair well with simple or festive sides. Here are some ideas to complete your spread.

  • Classic Combo: Serve with a Caesar salad or garlic bread for a diner-style meal. Add marinara sauce for dipping. Great for family pizza nights.
  • Party Platter: Cut into small squares and serve with wings and veggie sticks. Offer ranch and hot sauce for variety. Ideal for game days or gatherings.
  • Light Balance: Pair with a fresh arugula salad or fruit platter for a lighter meal. The pizza’s richness complements fresh, crisp sides.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Proper storage keeps your pizza fresh and tasty. Follow these steps for best results. They’re simple and maintain quality.

Store leftovers in an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for reference.

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes for a crispy crust. For the air fryer, heat at 360°F for 4-6 minutes. Microwave on medium for 1-2 minutes, but expect a softer crust.

Why Costco Deep Dish Pizza Stands Out

Costco’s Motor City Pizza Co. pizzas deliver authentic Detroit-style flavor. The thick, caramelized crust and edge-to-edge toppings mimic restaurant quality. They’re a step above typical frozen pizzas.

The included baking tray simplifies prep and ensures crispiness. Priced at $12.99-$14.99 for two, they’re budget-friendly for feeding a crowd. Varieties cater to meat lovers, cheese fans, and veggie enthusiasts.

These pizzas are perfect for busy nights or parties. With easy cooking methods, they’re foolproof and delicious. Enjoy a slice of Detroit at home with minimal effort.

Summary

Costco’s Motor City Pizza Co. deep dish pizzas are a delicious, convenient choice for any occasion. Using the Costco deep dish pizza cooking instructions, you can prepare them in the oven, air fryer, or microwave for a crispy crust and melted cheese. Tips like using a pizza stone and rotating halfway ensure perfect results. Pair with salads or party snacks and store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. This guide makes cooking Costco deep dish pizza easy, delivering a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal every time.

FAQ

How do I know when Costco deep dish pizza is done?
Check for melted, bubbling cheese and golden-brown edges. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy.

Can I cook Costco deep dish pizza from frozen?
Yes, cook straight from frozen for the best texture. Thawing may result in a soggy crust. Follow oven, air fryer, or microwave instructions.

What’s the best way to get a crispy crust?
Use a preheated pizza stone or bake on the center rack at 425°F. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Avoid microwaving for maximum crispiness.

How should I store leftover Costco deep dish pizza?
Wrap tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. Refrigerate for 4 days or freeze for 2 months. Reheat to 165°F before serving.

Can I add toppings to Costco deep dish pizza?
Yes, add toppings like cheese, veggies, or meats before baking. Sauté wet ingredients to avoid excess moisture. Add during the last 5 minutes to prevent burning.

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