How to Reheat Pizza Without Ruining It (The Right Way)

There’s nothing worse than biting into leftover pizza only to find it rubbery, dry, or limp. Many people default to the microwave, but that often destroys the crispy crust and fresh flavours that make pizza great. The good news? With the right reheating method, you can enjoy your pizza as if it were freshly baked. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to reheat pizza while keeping the crust crisp, the cheese melty, and the toppings full of flavour. We’ll also cover expert tips on reviving Pizza Rocco’s lightly sauced bases, naked bases, and dough balls to get the best possible results.

Why the Microwave is the Worst Choice (And When It’s Okay to Use It Anyway)

The microwave is the fastest option, but it’s also the worst for texture. Here’s why:

• Microwaves heat unevenly, making the crust soggy while overheating toppings.
• They cause moisture loss, drying out cheese and sauce.
• The dough loses its structure, becoming rubbery instead of crisp.

However, if you’re in a rush, try this trick:

• Place your pizza on a microwave-safe plate.
• Put a small glass of water next to it inside the microwave.
• Heat in 30-second intervals on medium power.
• For a better finish, crisp it up in a pan for 1-2 minutes after microwaving.

The Oven Method: Best for Whole Pizzas & Larger Slices

The oven is the best option when reheating multiple slices or an entire pizza.

Steps to Reheat in the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 180-200°C (fan-forced) or 200-220°C (conventional).
• Place your pizza directly on a wire rack for a crisp crust, or use a baking tray for slightly softer results.
• Reheat for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling.

Tip: If you have a pizza stone, preheat it for at least 30 minutes and place the pizza on top for an even better texture.

The Air Fryer Method: The Fastest, Crispiest Solution

An air fryer is one of the best ways to reheat pizza because it circulates high heat evenly, mimicking the effects of a woodfired oven.

How to Reheat Pizza in an Air Fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer to 180°C.
• Place the pizza inside, ensuring slices aren’t overlapping.
• Heat for 3-5 minutes until the crust crisps up and the cheese is perfectly melted.

The Stovetop Skillet Method: The Secret to a Crispy Base

If you’re reheating just one or two slices, the stovetop skillet is the best method.

Steps for Stovetop Reheating:

• Heat a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
• Place the pizza slice inside and cook for 2-3 minutes to crisp the bottom.
• Add a few drops of water to the pan (away from the pizza) and cover with a lid for another 1-2 minutes. This steams the toppings while keeping the crust crispy.

How to Revive Pizza Rocco’s Frozen Bases

Pizza Rocco’s lightly sauced bases and naked bases are pre-cooked in a woodfired oven, giving them a signature crisp texture. Here’s the best way to reheat them:

• Preheat your oven to 220°C (or as hot as it can go).
• Place the base directly on an oven rack or pizza stone for 4-5 minutes.
• Add your toppings and return to the oven for another 6-8 minutes until golden brown.

Pro Tip: If using a naked base, pre-bake it for 2-3 minutes before adding sauce and toppings to keep it extra crispy.

How to Cook Pizza Rocco’s Dough Balls for the First Time

If you’re making pizza from scratch using Pizza Rocco’s dough balls, follow these steps:

• Thaw the dough in the fridge for 12-24 hours before use.
• Bring it to room temperature for 30 minutes before stretching.
• Preheat your oven to 250°C with a pizza stone inside.
• Stretch the dough, place it on a floured surface, and top as desired.
• Bake for 6-8 minutes until puffed and golden brown.

Final Takeaways: The Best Way to Reheat Pizza

Whether you’re bringing leftovers back to life or cooking a Pizza Rocco base, the right method makes all the difference. For the crispiest crust, the oven or air fryer is best. If you want a quick and easy solution, the stovetop delivers great results for single slices.

Ready to enjoy authentic woodfired pizza at home? Browse our artisan pizza bases or try our dough balls to make fresh, handcrafted pizza from scratch.