Air Fryer Papa Murphy's Pizza: A Quick And Easy Guide

Papa Murphy's pizza is a popular choice for those who love to make their own pizza at home, but sometimes it's a challenge to get the perfect crispy crust. One innovative way to cook Papa Murphy's pizza in an air fryer is to achieve a delicious, golden-brown finish. This method not only saves time but also ensures a healthier alternative to traditional deep-frying. By following a few simple steps, you can enjoy a crispy, flavorful pizza right in your own kitchen.

Air Fryer Pizza Cooking Time

When it comes to cooking Papa Murphy's pizza in an air fryer, determining the right cooking time is crucial to ensure a delicious and evenly cooked meal. The cooking time will vary depending on the type of pizza, the size of the pizza, and the power of your air fryer. Here's a detailed guide to help you achieve the perfect result:

Preparation: Before you begin, ensure that your air fryer is preheated to the desired temperature. Papa Murphy's pizzas typically come frozen, so you'll need to thaw them according to the package instructions. Place the pizza on a pizza pan or a baking sheet to make it easier to handle and cook.

Cooking Time: The cooking time for Papa Murphy's pizza in an air fryer can range from 8 to 15 minutes. Here's a breakdown:

• For a thin-crust pizza, set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for approximately 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as the cooking time can vary depending on the air fryer's power.
• Medium-crust pizzas might take a little longer, around 10-12 minutes at the same temperature.
• For a thick-crust pizza, you may need to extend the cooking time to 12-15 minutes.

Cooking Technique: Place the pizza in the air fryer basket, ensuring it's not overcrowded. You can cook multiple pizzas at once, but make sure they have enough space to cook evenly. Cook the pizza until the crust is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The cooking time may vary slightly, so it's essential to check the progress regularly.

Tips for Even Cooking: To ensure even cooking, consider the following:

• Rotate the pizza halfway through the cooking process to promote even browning.
• If using a larger air fryer, you might need to adjust the cooking time and place the pizza on a rack to allow hot air circulation.
• Keep an eye on the pizza's edges to prevent burning, especially if your air fryer has a higher temperature setting.

Remember, these cooking times are estimates and may require adjustments based on your specific air fryer model and the brand of Papa Murphy's pizza you're using. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for your air fryer and the pizza's instructions for the best results. Enjoy your homemade, crispy, and delicious Papa Murphy's pizza!

Papa Murphy's Pizza Ingredients for Air Fryer

Cooking Papa Murphy's Pizza in an air fryer is a convenient and efficient way to enjoy a delicious meal without the need for a traditional oven. The key to success is understanding the ingredients and how they interact with the air fryer's heat. Here's a detailed guide on the ingredients you'll need and the process to follow:

Ingredients:

• Papa Murphy's Pizza Base: Start with the base you purchased from Papa Murphy's. Ensure it's fresh and has not been frozen. The dough should be soft and pliable.
• Pizza Sauce: Use Papa Murphy's recommended pizza sauce, which is typically a flavorful tomato-based sauce. You can also use a similar-style sauce from your preferred brand.
• Cheese: Go for a high-quality mozzarella cheese, either shredded or sliced. You can also add other cheeses like cheddar or a blend of cheeses for extra flavor.
• Toppings: Choose your favorite toppings from Papa Murphy's menu or customize your own. Common options include pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, peppers, olives, and various cheeses.
• Cooking Spray: A light cooking spray or oil will help prevent the pizza from sticking to the air fryer basket.

Instructions:

• Prepare the Pizza: Start by placing the pizza base on a clean work surface. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the base, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the cheese and arrange your chosen toppings.
• Air Fryer Setup: Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature, usually around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to ensure the pizza doesn't stick.
• Cooking Process: Carefully place the assembled pizza into the air fryer basket. Cook for approximately 10-15 minutes, flipping the pizza halfway through. The cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer and the desired crispiness. Aim for a golden-brown crust and melted cheese.
• Final Touches: Once cooked, remove the pizza from the air fryer and let it cool slightly. You can add fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. Slice the pizza and serve immediately.

Remember, the air fryer method might result in a slightly different texture compared to a traditional oven-baked pizza. The crust may be thinner and crispier, and the toppings might cook a bit faster. Adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve your desired level of doneness. Enjoy your homemade Papa Murphy's pizza with a modern twist!

Air Fryer vs. Oven for Pizza

The debate between using an air fryer or a traditional oven to cook pizza is an interesting one, especially when considering the convenience and taste of a Papa Murphy's pizza. While both methods have their advantages, understanding the differences can help you decide which approach is best for your pizza-making needs.

Air Fryer:

An air fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that uses hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in a crispy exterior and a tender interior. When it comes to pizza, an air fryer offers a unique cooking experience. You can achieve a crispy, golden-brown crust and a perfectly melted cheese layer. The key is to use a pizza stone or a preheated baking sheet inside the air fryer to create a stable cooking surface. Preheat the air fryer to a temperature of around 375-400°F (190-200°C), and then carefully place your pizza on the stone or sheet. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the pizza, but generally, it takes about 8-12 minutes to get a delicious, crispy pizza. This method is excellent for those who want a quick and convenient way to enjoy a restaurant-style pizza at home.

Oven:

Traditional ovens provide a more conventional cooking experience for pizza. Preheating the oven to a high temperature, typically 450-500°F (230-260°C), is essential to ensure a crispy base. Place the pizza on a preheated baking stone or a baking tray, and cook it for approximately 10-15 minutes. The oven's dry heat will create a crispy crust and melt the cheese evenly. One advantage of using an oven is that you can easily adjust the cooking time and temperature to suit your preferences. Additionally, ovens are generally more energy-efficient for larger batches of pizza.

Comparison:

Both methods have their merits. Air fryers offer a faster cooking time and a unique, crispy texture, making them ideal for a quick meal. Ovens, on the other hand, provide a more traditional pizza-cooking experience and are suitable for larger batches. The choice between the two depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for convenience and a crispy, air-fried texture, an air fryer is a great option. For those who enjoy the classic oven-baked taste and have more time, the oven method is preferable.

In the case of Papa Murphy's pizza, both cooking methods can be adapted to suit their style. The air fryer can be used to replicate their crispy crust, while the oven can be adjusted to mimic the traditional baking process. Ultimately, experimenting with both methods will help you determine which one best suits your taste and lifestyle.

Tips for Air Fryer Pizza Texture

When it comes to cooking pizza in an air fryer, achieving the perfect texture can be a bit of an art. The air fryer's rapid air circulation technique can produce a crispy, golden-brown crust, but it requires a bit of technique to ensure the pizza doesn't turn into a soggy mess. Here are some tips to help you master the art of air-frying pizza and get that delicious, crispy texture:

Choose the Right Pizza Base: The type of pizza dough you use can significantly impact the final texture. Thinner, crispy bases like those found in traditional Neapolitan or Roman-style pizzas tend to work best in air fryers. These bases can crisp up beautifully without becoming too soggy. If you're using a thicker, chewier dough, consider pre-baking it in the oven for a few minutes before air-frying to ensure a crispier crust.

Prepare the Toppings: The toppings you choose can also affect the texture. Mozzarella cheese, when exposed to high heat, can become slightly rubbery, so it's best to add it towards the end of the cooking process. You can either sprinkle it on top before air-frying or add it just before serving. Sauces and other toppings with high moisture content should be used sparingly, as they can make the pizza soggy. Consider using a thin, even layer of sauce or opting for a dry rub instead.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer before adding the pizza. This ensures that the heat is distributed evenly, promoting even cooking. Preheating also helps to create a crispy base, as the hot air will start to cook the dough and toppings immediately.

Adjust Cooking Time and Temperature: The cooking time and temperature will vary depending on your air fryer and the thickness of your pizza. As a general rule, start with a lower temperature (around 350°F/180°C) and a shorter cooking time, then increase the temperature and time as needed. For a thin-crust pizza, 8-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) might be sufficient. For thicker crusts, you might need up to 15 minutes at a higher temperature. Keep an eye on your pizza, as the air fryer can cook food quickly.

Flip and Rotate: For an even cook, especially if you're making a larger pizza, consider flipping the pizza halfway through the cooking process. This ensures that the toppings and crust are cooked evenly. If your air fryer has a rotisserie function, you can use it to rotate the pizza, ensuring a consistent cook.

Final Touches: Once your pizza is cooked to your desired level of crispiness, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool slightly. This helps to set the cheese and ensures a cleaner slice. You can then add any final toppings, such as fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil, just before serving.

Mastering the art of air-frying pizza might take a few attempts, but with these tips, you'll be well on your way to enjoying crispy, restaurant-quality pizza in the comfort of your home.

Papa Murphy's Pizza Air Fryer Recipe

Papa Murphy's Pizza, a popular pizza chain, offers a convenient way to enjoy fresh, made-to-order pizzas. While their pizzas are traditionally baked in ovens, you might wonder if it's possible to cook them in an air fryer. The answer is yes! Cooking Papa Murphy's Pizza in an air fryer can be a quick and efficient way to enjoy a delicious pizza without the need for a traditional oven. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you master this cooking method.

Preparation:

Start by purchasing a Papa Murphy's Pizza of your choice. You can opt for a classic pepperoni or explore their various specialty options. Once you have your pizza, let it come to room temperature. This step is crucial as it ensures even cooking. Remove the pizza from its box and place it on a baking sheet or a heat-resistant plate.

Air Frying Technique:

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for cooking pizzas as it provides a good balance between crispiness and moisture retention.
• Place the pizza in the air fryer basket, ensuring it is not overcrowded. You might need to cook it in batches if you have a smaller air fryer.
• Cook the pizza for approximately 8-10 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of the crust. Keep an eye on the pizza to avoid overcooking.
• During the cooking process, you can lightly spray the pizza with cooking oil to enhance crispiness. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer cooking spray or simply brush the pizza with oil before cooking.

Finishing Touches:

Once the cooking time is up, remove the pizza from the air fryer and let it cool slightly. This allows the cheese to set and the toppings to cool, ensuring a neat presentation. If desired, you can add some fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestion:

Papa Murphy's Pizza air-fried to perfection can be served as a quick and tasty meal. Consider pairing it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience. The air-frying method retains the pizza's moisture, making it a convenient and satisfying option for busy individuals or those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried pizzas.

Remember, cooking times may vary, so it's essential to monitor your pizza closely to achieve the desired level of doneness and crispiness. Enjoy your homemade Papa Murphy's Pizza, air-fried to perfection!

Frequently asked questions