Pizza is one of the few foods that people love just as much the next day. But let’s be honest. Not all leftovers are created equal. Reheating pizza the wrong way can leave you with a soggy crust, rubbery cheese, or dried-out toppings. If you want that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste without ruining your slice, the method you choose makes all the difference.
Here is a guide to reheating pizza the right way so it stays crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
Skip the Microwave
The microwave is the most common way to reheat pizza, but also the least effective. It heats unevenly, turning the crust soft and chewy while overheating the toppings. If you are in a rush, it may do the job, but it will not bring your pizza back to life.
If you have no choice, place a paper towel under the slice and microwave for 30 to 60 seconds. It helps absorb moisture, but results will still fall short of what other methods can offer.
Best Overall Method: The Skillet
Reheating pizza in a skillet on the stovetop is a game-changer. It brings back that crisp bottom crust while gently warming the toppings and cheese.
Steps:
- Heat a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
- Place your slice in the dry pan.
- Cover with a lid or foil to trap heat and help melt the cheese.
- Heat for 4 to 6 minutes, or until the crust is crisp and the cheese is soft.
This method gives you a crispy base and melted cheese without drying anything out.
Best for Multiple Slices: The Oven
If you are reheating the best pizza in Red Deer for a few people or just have several slices, the oven is your best option. It evenly warms everything while restoring texture.
Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Place slices directly on the middle rack or on a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Heat for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is firm.
To keep the crust from getting too hard, you can place a piece of foil loosely over the top during the first few minutes.
Want a Crispy Crust? Try the Air Fryer
The air fryer has become a go-to kitchen tool for a reason. It heats quickly and restores crunch better than most methods.
Steps:
- Set your air fryer to 350°F.
- Place a slice inside, making sure it is flat and not folded.
- Heat for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Check often to avoid overcooking.
Keep in mind that toppings can slide around in the air fryer, so this is best for slices with firm toppings or lots of cheese.
A Trick to Avoid: Reheating in a Cold Oven
Some people make the mistake of placing cold pizza into a cold oven, thinking it will warm slowly and evenly. What usually happens is the crust dries out before the cheese melts. Always preheat your oven for consistent, high-quality results.
Final Tips
- Do not overcrowd: If you are reheating multiple slices, give them space so heat can circulate.
- Use a lid or foil: Trapping steam helps re-melt cheese without drying out toppings.
- Avoid high heat: It may crisp the crust too fast and leave the middle cold.
Final Thoughts
Leftover pizza deserves better than a soggy microwave job. With a little care and the right method, you can bring back the crisp crust, gooey cheese, and fresh flavor that made the slice great in the first place. Whether you prefer the skillet, the oven, or the air fryer, you now have the tools to enjoy your pizza the way it was meant to be eaten. Even on day two.