The Best Way to Reheat Deep-Dish Pizza
Don't even think about using the microwave.
Think there’s no such thing as fresh-from-the-oven pizza? Leftovers can taste just as good as a fresh pie — even when it’s a dish as ostentatiously cheesy and crisp as deep-dish pizza. If you and your companions eat a whole pie in a single sitting, then congratulations (also, you may need a nap). But chances are you'll need a to-go box. Avoid a soggy mess and follow these tips for the best way to reheat deep-dish pizza. And if you're looking to reheat a regular slice of pizza, check out our story How to Reheat Leftover Pizza.
The Best Way: Skillet
Ideal for 1 slice at a time.
Oil a cast-iron or regular (not nonstick) skillet and heat over medium-high. If your skillet is large enough to include more than one slice without any touching, it’s ok to heat multiple slices at a time. Otherwise, add the solo pizza slice crust-side down, lower the heat to medium and cover the skillet. Cook until heated through, 4 to 5 minutes.
Runner Up: Oven
Best for lots of leftover pizza.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (the lower temperature keeps the already-cooked and -golden crust from burning). Grease a parchment- or foil-lined baking sheet and add your leftover slices. Mist or drizzle with a little water and cover loosely with foil. Bake until gooey, usually 15 to 20 minutes. (Make a salad while you wait for the pizza to reheat.)
Third Place: Toaster Oven
A solid option, only good for 1 to 2 slices at a time.
Perfect for college-dorm diners who don’t have access to a stove or oven. Set the toaster oven to medium and plan on 2 to 3 cycles until reheated.
Try to Avoid: Microwave
When you just need pizza.
Pizza purists will tell you it’s a crime to microwave leftover pizza, because it makes the crust super soggy. Unless you don’t mind — or you even like — a little sogginess.
Never: Reheat in the box
Nope.
It’s a fire hazard so definitely not an option.
If Chicago-style deep-dish pizza isn’t available in your area, then make Skillet Deep Dish Pizza at home in a skillet you might already have on-hand.
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