Papa Murphy’s preheat is the simple step that transforms a frozen pizza into a fresh, crispy pie at home. Understanding how long and at what temperature to preheat your oven ensures better texture, flavor, and food safety.
This guide walks through the essentials of preheating Papa Murphy’s pizzas, including recommended oven settings, troubleshooting tips, and how different styles perform.
| Oven Type | Recommended Temperature | Typical Preheat Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional Electric | 425°F (220°C) | 10–15 minutes | Thin and deep-dish styles |
| Conventional Gas | 425°F (220°C) | 10–12 minutes | Classic hand-tossed crust |
| Convection | 400°F (205°C) | 7–10 minutes | Even baking and crisp edges |
| Toaster Oven | 400°F (205°C) | 5–7 minutes | Single slices or small pies |
Standard Preheat Guidelines
Temperature by Oven Type
Most Papa Murphy’s pizzas perform best at 425°F (220°C) in conventional ovens. Convection settings can be reduced to 400°F (205°C) to avoid over-browning while still achieving a crisp crust. Always verify your oven’s actual temperature with a separate oven thermometer for accuracy.
Timing and Readiness Cues
Preheat times vary by oven, but waiting until the oven fully reaches the target temperature is critical. Look for the preheat indicator to turn off, and, if possible, allow an extra 2–3 minutes for the oven cavity to stabilize. A properly heated oven will release steady, even heat when you open the door slightly.
Why Preheat Matters for Papa Murphy’s
Starting your oven at the correct temperature ensures the crust sets quickly, locking in moisture and creating the desired rise. Without a proper preheat, the dough may steam in its own moisture, leading to a softer, less appealing texture. Consistent heat also promotes even cooking, so toppings and cheese melt uniformly without burning the edges.
Preparing Your Pizza for the Oven
Pan, Stone, or Direct Rack
Place the pizza on a preheated pizza stone or steel for maximum crispness. If using a pan, choose light-colored metal and avoid glass. For a chewier center, you can bake directly on the oven rack, provided the dough is sturdy enough to handle.
Sizing and Placement
Do not overload the oven with multiple pizzas unless there is space for air to circulate. Keep the pizza centered on the middle rack so it receives consistent heat from above and below.
Adjusting for Thin vs Deep-Dish Crust
Thin Style Baking Strategy
Thin-crust Papa Murphy’s pizzas react quickly to heat, so sticking closely to the recommended temperature and time prevents over-browning. You can pull the pizza slightly earlier if you prefer a softer interior.
Deep-Dish and Specialty Crusts
Thick, deep-dish crusts often benefit from the standard 425°F (220°C) setting to allow the center to cook through. Convection can shorten baking time, so check the bottom crust for doneness before removing the pizza.
Key Takeaways for Better Papa Murphy’s Results
- Always preheat to the target temperature before placing the pizza inside.
- Use a pizza stone or preheated pan for a crispier crust.
- Check oven accuracy with an independent thermometer.
- Reduce temperature slightly and extend bake time for convection settings.
- Avoid opening the oven door during preheat to maintain consistent temperature.
FAQ
Reader questions
How long should I preheat my oven for a Papa Murphy’s pizza?
Preheat for 10–15 minutes in a conventional oven until it reaches 425°F (220°C), or 7–10 minutes in a convection oven set to 400°F (205°C).
Can I use a toaster oven for Papa Murphy’s?
Yes, set the toaster oven to 400°F (205°C) and allow 5–7 minutes to preheat, keeping a close eye on the edges to avoid over-browning.
Does the pizza tray need to be preheated?
Preheating the baking sheet or pizza stone along with the oven helps the bottom crust crisp faster and prevents sogginess.
What if my oven runs hot or cool?
Use an oven thermometer to confirm the actual temperature and adjust the setting slightly up or down to match the recommended 425°F (220°F) target.