Leftover pizza is one of life’s small joys, but reheating it the wrong way can leave you with a soggy, rubbery mess. So, how best to reheat pizza? The answer depends on what you have on hand and how much time you’ve got before you’re out the door. Whether you’re rushing to work or settling in for a lazy Saturday, there’s a method that fits.
The Skillet Method: Crispy Bottom, Melty Top
If you want that fresh-from-the-oven crunch, the skillet is hard to beat. Heat a nonstick or cast-iron pan over medium-low, drop in your slice, and cover it with a lid. The pan crisps up the crust while trapped steam melts the cheese evenly. In about five minutes, you’ll have a slice that tastes almost as good as day one. Because of that steam trick, this method consistently outperforms the microwave for texture.
The Oven Method: Best for Multiple Slices
Feeding a hungry family or reheating a whole pizza? The oven is your best friend. Preheat to 375°F, place slices directly on a baking sheet or pizza stone, and heat for eight to ten minutes. In addition, a quick blast under the broiler for the last minute adds extra crispiness to the edges. It takes a little longer, however, the payoff is a whole pizza that tastes freshly made.
The Microwave Method: Fast, But With a Trick
Short on time? The microwave gets the job done in under two minutes. To avoid a chewy crust, place a small cup of water next to your slice while it heats — the water absorbs excess microwave energy and keeps the pizza from turning tough. Meanwhile, if you have a microwave crisper pan, use it for noticeably better results.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Pizza
Reheating isn’t the only option for leftover slices. Because pizza is endlessly versatile, it can become an entirely new meal:
- Breakfast pizza with an egg — Crack an egg on top of a slice, sprinkle a little cheese, and bake at 375°F for eight minutes until the egg sets. It’s a quick, protein-packed way to start the day.
- Pizza croutons — Cube stale or reheated slices, toss with olive oil, and toast in a skillet or oven until crunchy. Scatter them over a salad or soup for an unexpected crispy topping.
- Pizza quesadilla — Fold a slice in half, crisp it in a pan, and you’ve got a fun handheld twist on classic leftovers.
Stop In for Fresh Slices, Snacks, and More
However you like your pizza reheated, sometimes the easiest answer is grabbing a hot, fresh slice on your way home. Kelley’s Market is proud to be your friendly, reliable neighborhood stop for quick meals, snacks, and everything in between — because being a trusted community partner means being there when hunger strikes. In addition to great food, our café keeps the coffee fresh and the options quick, so you’re in and out in no time.
Ready for a fresh bite instead of leftovers? Find a Kelley’s Market location near you and stop in today.