Papa Murphy’s is well known for its take-and-bake pizzas. You pick them up cold and cook them at home. This gives you the chance to enjoy hot, fresh pizza straight from your oven. But one common question many people ask is, “How do I make my Papa Murphy’s pizza crispy?”
A crispy crust adds flavor and texture. It makes each bite more satisfying. Some people like a soft, chewy crust, but many love the crunch that comes from a well-baked edge and bottom.
In this article, we will show you exactly how to make your Papa Murphy’s pizza turn out crispy every time. Whether you’re baking it for the first time or have tried before and weren’t happy with the crust, these tips will help. Let’s get started.
Step 1: Know Your Pizza Type
Papa Murphy’s offers different crust styles. Knowing your type helps you bake it the right way.
Original Crust
This is a classic, medium-thick crust. It crisps well but can still stay soft in the middle if not cooked properly.
Thin Crust
Thin crust bakes faster. It’s the easiest one to get crispy if you follow simple steps.
Stuffed Crust
This is thicker and heavier. It needs more time and care to crisp up the bottom.
Pan Crust
This is thick and soft by nature, but with a hot enough pan, it can get crisp on the outside.
Tip: Always read the label on the pizza wrap. It will tell you the exact baking instructions for that pizza type.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven Properly
One of the most important steps is preheating your oven. Don’t skip it. A hot oven gives your pizza the strong heat it needs to get crispy right away.
Use High Heat
Set your oven to 425°F unless the pizza label says otherwise. Preheat for at least 15 to 20 minutes. You want your oven nice and hot before the pizza goes in.
Use a Pizza Stone or Steel (Optional but Recommended)
If you have a pizza stone or steel, put it in the oven while it preheats.
This tool stores heat and helps crisp the bottom of the pizza. If you don’t have one, don’t worry—we’ll give you other tips too.
Step 3: Choose the Right Baking Surface
How you place your pizza in the oven makes a big difference.
Baking on the Tray (Standard Method)
Papa Murphy’s pizzas usually come on a paper tray that is safe for the oven. You can bake it like this, but the bottom might not get as crispy as some people want.
Baking Without the Tray
For a crispier crust, try this:
- Bake the pizza on the tray for 8-10 minutes
- Then slide the pizza off the tray and onto the oven rack or a preheated baking sheet
- Bake for another 5-7 minutes
This allows hot air to touch the crust directly, making it golden and crunchy.
Step 4: Use the Right Rack Position
Oven rack position affects how heat hits the pizza.
Bottom Rack = Crispier Crust
Place your pizza on the lowest oven rack to get more direct heat on the crust. This is especially helpful if you aren’t using a pizza stone.
If you want an even crisper texture, you can:
- Put the pizza directly on the rack or
Place a metal baking sheet on the lowest rack during preheating, then bake the pizza on that.
Step 5: Don’t Overload with Toppings
Papa Murphy’s pizzas are generous with toppings, which is great—but too many can make the crust soggy.
Reduce Moisture from Toppings
Lightly blot wet toppings like tomatoes or pineapple before baking.
Avoid adding extra cheese or sauce unless you balance it with longer bake time.
Too much moisture on top = soft crust on the bottom.
If you customize your pizza with extra toppings at home, keep the layers thin. More toppings mean more steam and longer baking time.
Step 6: Bake Longer (But Don’t Burn It)
Some ovens cook slower than others. Use your eyes and nose to guide you, not just the timer.
Keep Watching After 12 Minutes
For most pizzas, bake times range from 12 to 18 minutes. But if you want it crispier, try:
- Letting it bake for 2–3 minutes longer after it looks done
- Checking the bottom crust with a spatula—look for a golden brown color
- If it’s pale, give it a little more time
Don’t walk away—it’s easy to go from crisp to burnt in just a few minutes.
Step 7: Let It Rest After Baking
This step is easy to skip, but it matters.
Why Resting Helps
Let your pizza rest on a wire rack or cutting board for 3-5 minutes after baking. This allows steam to escape and prevents sogginess on the bottom.
Cutting into a pizza too early traps steam under the crust, which makes it soft again.
Step 8: Try Air Frying or Reheating Tricks for Extra Crisp
If your pizza comes out softer than you’d like, don’t worry. You can still crisp it up.
Reheat Slices in a Skillet
- Heat a non-stick or cast-iron pan on medium
- Place the pizza slice in the pan (no oil needed)
- Cover loosely with a lid
- Heat for 3–5 minutes until the bottom is crisp
Use an Air Fryer
- Set the air fryer to 375°F
- Place slices inside and heat for 3–4 minutes
- Check for golden bottom before serving
This is a great trick for leftovers, too.
Step 9: Tips Based on Crust Types
Thin Crust
- Bakes fast (10–12 minutes)
- Use the bottom rack
- Watch closely to avoid burning
Original Crust
- Bake for 12–18 minutes
- Finish last few minutes off the tray
- Check for browning underneath
Stuffed Crust
- Longer bake time: 25–30 minutes
- Keep on tray most of the time
- Use a lower rack to help crust cook evenly
Pan Crust
- Comes in a metal pan
- Best baked on middle or lower rack
- Preheat pan if you want extra crispy edges
Bonus: Use Convection If You Have It
If your oven has a convection setting, use it.
- Set oven 25°F lower than normal (around 400°F)
- The fan circulates hot air for more even and crispy results
- Helps moisture escape faster, especially on thicker pizzas
Just remember to check your pizza earlier—it may bake faster with convection.
Conclusion
Making Papa Murphy’s pizza crispy isn’t hard. It just takes a little extra care and attention. The keys are high heat, a good baking surface, and the right technique. Whether you’re a fan of thin, classic, or stuffed crusts, these steps will help you get that perfect crunch every time.
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