When you’re craving pizza and looking for a fast way to satisfy that hunger, why not try reheating your leftovers in the microwave? Reheating cold leftover pizza can be tricky – after all, reheating it incorrectly can result in either dry or soggy slices. Even if the finished product isn’t exactly like its just-cooked counterpart, a well-made reheated slice of pizza surely beats having none at all.
We’ll provide you with easy tips for successfully reheating your remaining pizza slices so you don’t end up eating a less than desirable meal. Keep reading to find out how simple to reheat pizza in the microwave to enjoy last night’s dinner again tonight!
Microwave Types
The type of microwave you also have can affect how quickly and evenly your pizza will reheat. There are two main types of microwaves – convection and standard.
The type of microwave you have is an important factor to consider when it comes to reheating pizza. If you have a traditional microwave oven, use the regular setting and heat the pizza on high for 30-45 seconds.
If you have a convection oven, select the convection setting and heat at medium power for 1-2 minutes. The hot air circulating around the pizza will give it an even and crispy finish without drying out the cheese or toppings.
If you have a combination oven, set it to convection and heat at medium power for 2-3 minutes. The combined power of the microwave and convection oven will help give your pizza an evenly reheated result with a crispy texture.
Finally, if you own a smart oven with sensor cooking, select the “pizza” setting and follow the instructions on your oven. The smart sensors will detect when your pizza is heated to perfection and shut off automatically.
Reheating Pizza in the Microwave
Preparing Pizza in the Microwave
1. Place your pizza slices on a microwave-safe plate. Be sure to spread them out so they don’t overlap and that the heat can reach each slice evenly.
2. Add a few drops of water onto the plate (if using a standard microwave) or use a spray bottle (if using convection microwave). This will help the pizza slices remain soft and moist while reheating.
3. Cover the plate with a damp paper towel so that it traps in some of the steam from cooking.
Reheating Method
If you have a standard microwave, start by placing your pizza slices on a plate lined with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the slices from becoming too dry or rubbery during reheating. Set the power level to medium and heat for 30 seconds at a time. Keep checking your slices until they are heated through and serve while still warm.
If you have a convection microwave, start by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). Then place your pizza slices onto a greased baking sheet or shallow dish and place inside the microwave. Heat for 3-4 minutes, depending on how many slices you’re reheating. Be sure to check your pizza frequently to avoid overcooking it.
Serving Suggestions
Once your pizza slices are reheated, you can top them with fresh grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of herbs for extra flavor. You can also serve the slices with a side of marinara sauce or garlic butter dip to enhance the taste even further.
Tips for Reheating Pizza in the Microwave
– To prevent your pizza from becoming soggy, make sure to spread out the slices before reheating.
– If you want to add a bit of extra crispness to your reheated pizza slices, try preheating your oven or toaster oven before adding the slices in.
– For an even quicker reheat time, try breaking the slices into smaller pieces before microwaving.
– If reheating more than one slice of pizza, increase the cooking time accordingly.
– Add a few drops of water or use a spray bottle to moisten the pizza slices if you’re using a standard microwave. This will help keep them soft and flavorful without drying them out.
– Cover the plate with a damp paper towel to trap in steam and prevent your pizza slices from drying out during reheating.
– Check on your pizza frequently while it’s heating so you don’t end up with dry or rubbery slices.
– Serve your reheated pizza slices while still warm for the best flavor and texture.
– Avoid using aluminum foil as a cover while reheating in the microwave, as it can cause sparks and damage the interior of your oven.
– Reheat leftover pizza within 2-3 days for best taste and texture.
How To Choose The Right One For Reheating Pizza
Before learning how to reheat pizza in the microwave, it’s important to know what type of microwave you have. The best way to cook your slices will depend on the make and model of your microwave. As we said, the type of microwave you have will determine how quickly and evenly your slices are cooked.
Convection microwaves use a fan to circulate the heat and cook food faster and more evenly than standard microwaves. However, they’re typically more expensive.
On the other hand, a standard microwave doesn’t use a fan and therefore can take longer to cook and may not heat food as evenly. But if you’re on a budget, this might be the way to go.
No matter which type of microwave you have, make sure to spread out your pizza slices before reheating. This will help ensure that the heat is distributed evenly and that your slices don’t become dry or rubbery.
What Are Some Common Mistakes To Avoid While Reheating Pizza?
One of the most common mistakes people make when reheating pizza is not checking on it regularly. Pizzas can go from nicely heated to overcooked in a matter of seconds, so be sure to check your slices every 30-45 seconds while they’re heating.
Another mistake to avoid is using aluminum foil as a cover. Aluminum foil can cause sparks and damage the interior of your oven, so it’s best to avoid using it when reheating pizza in the microwave.
Finally, make sure to serve your reheated slices while still warm for the best flavor and texture. Reheated pizza can lose its flavor and texture quickly, so it’s best to enjoy it while still hot.
All in all, reheating pizza in the microwave is a convenient way to enjoy your leftover slices. As long as you spread out the slices before heating and check on them regularly, you’ll be able to avoid common reheating mistakes and enjoy a delicious slice of pizza.
Pros & Cons Of Reheating Pizza In The Microwave
Pros:
– Quick and easy way to reheat pizza without the need for an oven.
– You can add a few drops of water or use a spray bottle to keep your slices soft and flavorful.
– Covering the plate with a damp paper towel helps trap in steam and keep your slices from drying out.
– Reheating pizza in the microwave is a great way to enjoy leftover slices without having to wait for an oven to preheat.
Cons:
– Pizzas can dry out if not checked on regularly or covered with a damp paper towel.
– Not all microwaves are the same and certain types may cook pizza more quickly or slowly than other microwaves.
– Aluminum foil should not be used as a cover while reheating in the microwave, as it can cause sparks and damage the interior of your oven.
– Reheated pizza doesn’t taste quite as good as fresh-baked pizza.
– Reheating pizza in the microwave is not recommended for pizzas with lots of toppings, as they can become dry and rubbery.
– Reheated pizza should be eaten within 2-3 days for best taste and texture.
Can you reheat unrefrigerated pizza?
It is not recommended to reheat unrefrigerated pizza, as it increases the risk of foodborne illness due to bacteria growth. If you have leftovers from a freshly made and served pizza, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days and reheat them before consuming. Reheating will help reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
How do you make pizza crispy in the microwave?
To make pizza crispy in the microwave, place it on a microwave-safe plate and set your microwave to high power for about 30 seconds.
Then, remove it from the microwave and top it with some grated cheese or garlic butter. Finally, put the pizza back into the microwave for another 30-45 seconds until it’s hot and crispy.
If it’s not crisp enough, you can increase the cooking time in 10-second increments until it reaches the desired level of crispiness.
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Conclusion
If you’re looking for the best way to reheat your pizza, the microwave is definitely the way to go. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it will taste just as good as if it were fresh out of the oven.
Just make sure to spread out the slices before heating, check on them regularly, and cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy that reheat pizza in microwave just as much as you would fresh-baked!
FAQs
How long should I reheat pizza in the microwave?
It generally takes 1-2 minutes to reheat a single slice of pizza in the microwave. If you’re reheating multiple slices, it may take 2-4 minutes.
What is the best way to warm up leftover pizza?
The best way to warm up leftover pizza is to reheat it in the oven or microwave. The oven will give you a crispier, fresher-tasting slice, while the microwave will be quicker and more convenient.
Why does pizza get soggy in the microwave?
Pizza can get soggy in the microwave if it is not spread out properly or if it is not covered with a damp paper towel. This will trap in steam and keep the pizza from drying out.
Does microwaving pizza with water work?
Yes, microwaving pizza with a few drops of water or using a spray bottle will help keep it soft and flavorful. It’s important to not over-wet the slices, as this can make them soggy.
Why is cold leftover pizza so good?
Cold leftover pizza is so good because it has had time to sit and absorb all the flavors of the toppings. The crust also becomes slightly more crisp after a night in the fridge, making it even better than when it was freshly cooked!
Is leftover pizza better cold or hot?
It really depends on personal preference. Some people like cold pizza for the texture and flavor, while others prefer it hot so that the toppings are warm and melted. Experiment and see which you like better!
How to Using Paper Towels to Reheating Pizza In The Microwave
When reheating pizza in the microwave, it’s best to use a few paper towels to absorb the excess moisture. Place a few paper towels on top of the pizza slices before reheating and this will help prevent the cheese from becoming too soggy. This method also helps create a more even reheat, ensuring all parts of your pizza are heated evenly.
Once you’ve got your pizza ready for reheating, place it on a microwave-safe plate and place it in the center of your oven. If you’re using paper towels, make sure they are spread out evenly over the pizza slices to avoid scorching or burning them.
Once your pizza is done reheating, let it sit for 1-2 minutes before digging in. This will give the cheese a chance to cool and firm up, giving you that just-cooked pizza taste!
Is it safe to reheat pizzas in a microwave?
Yes, it is safe to reheat pizza in a microwave. When done properly, it can be an easy and efficient way to enjoy your leftovers without having to wait for the oven to preheat. It is important to remember that microwaves heat food unevenly and some types of microwaves may cook more quickly or slowly than others. Therefore, it is important to check on your pizza every 30-45 seconds and cover the plate with a damp paper towel in order to keep your slices from drying out. It is also important not to use aluminum foil as a cover, as this can cause sparks and damage the interior of your oven. Finally, pizzas should be enjoyed while still warm for the best flavor and texture. Reheated pizza can last up to 2-3 days but is best enjoyed fresh.