Pizza is one of the most popular and well-loved foods in the world. It’s easy to see why – it’s delicious, versatile, and pretty convenient. But one thing that often gets overlooked is how long pizza actually lasts.
Sure, we all know that pizza is best eaten fresh out of the oven. But what if you can’t do that? Is it still okay to eat pizza that’s been sitting out for a few hours? The answer, unfortunately, is not a simple yes or no. It all depends on the type of pizza and how it’s been stored.
When Stored at Room Temperature
If you have a slice of pizza sitting out at room temperature, it’s technically safe to eat – but it’s not going to taste very good. The reason is that the dough will start to dry out, and the toppings will begin to congeal.
Pizza stored in a sealed container will last longer than pizza left out in the open. That is because the sealed container keeps the pizza moist and prevents it from drying and going stale.
When Stored in the Fridge
Pizza is best eaten fresh but can be stored in the fridge for a few days. In fact, some people think pizza tastes just as good when it’s cold. However, it’s essential to know that the quality of the pizza will start to decline after a few days.
To extend the shelf life of your pizza, it’s best to slice it and store it in an airtight container. That will prevent the pizza from drying out and becoming hard. Pizza will last in the fridge for three to four days. After that, it’s best to freeze it or throw it out.
When Stored in the Freezer
Pizza can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. After three months, the quality of the pizza will start to decline. The crust will become harder, and the cheese will lose its flavor. If you want to enjoy the best possible pizza, eating it within the first month of storage is best.
Best Ways to Reheat Your Pizza
If you’re really craving pizza and don’t mind sacrificing some taste, then go ahead and eat that slice. But if you want your pizza to taste its best, it’s best to reheat it.
You can reheat pizza in several ways, but here are some of the best ways:
1. Using the Oven
If you want to reheat your pizza and make it taste like it did when it was first made, then the oven is the way to go. Simply preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place your pizza on a baking sheet.
Bake for about ten minutes or until the pizza is heated through. The key here is not to overcook the pizza. Otherwise, it will become dry and crumbly.
2. The Stove
If you don’t have an oven or are short on time, the stove is the next best option. Simply place your pizza in a skillet over medium heat and cook for a few minutes on each side. Again, try not to overcook your pizza.
3. The Microwave
If you’re in a hurry and need to reheat your pizza quickly, then the microwave is the way to go. Simply place your pizza on a plate and microwave for about 30 seconds to one minute. If overcooked, your pizza will become soggy.
4. The Toaster Oven
If you have a toaster oven, then you’re in luck. That is one of the best ways to reheat pizza because it doesn’t take long and won’t dry out the pizza as the oven can.
Simply preheat your toaster oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, place your pizza on a baking sheet. Bake for about five to seven minutes or until the pizza is heated through.
Conclusion
Pizza is delicious food that people of all ages can enjoy. However, like all food, pizza has a shelf life and will eventually go bad. It is essential to know how long your pizza will last to enjoy it at its best. So, next time you’re enjoying a slice of pizza, take a moment to think about how long it will last. Also, make sure to store it properly so you can enjoy it for as long as possible!
Experience the best pizza in Indiana. Doreen’s Pizzeria is a family-friendly pizza restaurant serving the Hegewisch community for over 30 years. We use only the freshest ingredients in our pizzas, and our dough is made fresh daily. Our menu features a wide variety of pizza options, as well as sandwiches, salads, and appetizers. We also offer delivery, carry-out, and catering services.