Papa Murphy’s is a popular take-and-bake pizza chain, known for its fresh ingredients and customizable options. Unlike other pizza places, Papa Murphy’s pizzas are prepared fresh in-store, and you bake them at home. But what happens if you don’t bake your pizza right away? How long can you keep a Papa Murphy’s pizza in the fridge before it goes bad? In this guide, we’ll explore the factors that affect the shelf life of your Papa Murphy’s pizza and provide tips on how to store it for maximum freshness.
Understanding the Shelf Life of Papa Murphy’s Pizza
The shelf life of any pizza, including Papa Murphy’s, depends on several factors such as the ingredients used, how it’s stored, and the temperature of your refrigerator. Generally, a Papa Murphy’s pizza can last in the fridge for 24 to 48 hours before it starts to lose its freshness. However, there are specific guidelines to ensure your pizza remains safe and delicious.
Factors That Affect the Shelf Life of Papa Murphy’s Pizza
Several factors can influence how long your Papa Murphy’s pizza will last in the fridge:
Type of Ingredients: Pizzas with more perishable toppings like seafood, fresh vegetables, or soft cheeses have a shorter shelf life compared to those with hard cheeses or cured meats like pepperoni and sausage.
Storage Temperature: The temperature of your fridge plays a critical role. The ideal temperature for storing pizza is at or below 40°F (4°C). If your fridge is warmer than this, the pizza will spoil faster.
Packaging: How well your pizza is sealed will also affect its longevity. Pizzas stored in airtight packaging or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil will last longer than those left exposed to air.
How to Properly Store Papa Murphy’s Pizza in the Fridge
To maximize the shelf life of your Papa Murphy’s pizza, follow these storage tips:
Wrap the Pizza Tightly: After bringing your pizza home, if you plan to store it in the fridge, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps prevent exposure to air, which can cause the crust to dry out and the toppings to spoil.
Use an Airtight Container: If you have a large enough container, consider storing your pizza in an airtight container. This not only keeps the pizza fresh but also helps avoid any fridge odors from seeping into your pizza.
Keep It on a Flat Surface: Ensure the pizza is placed on a flat surface in the fridge to avoid any toppings sliding off or the pizza becoming misshapen.
Signs Your Papa Murphy’s Pizza Has Gone Bad
Even with proper storage, there are times when pizza can go bad. Here are some signs to look out for:
Unpleasant Odor: If your pizza smells sour or off, it’s likely spoiled and should be discarded.
Visible Mold: Any sign of mold on the crust or toppings means the pizza is no longer safe to eat.
Slimy or Discolored Toppings: If the toppings have changed in texture or color, it’s a sign they have started to spoil.
Can You Freeze Papa Murphy’s Pizza?
If you don’t plan to bake your pizza within the next day or two, freezing it is a good option. Here’s how:
Wrap the Pizza Well: Before freezing, wrap the pizza tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping prevents freezer burn.
Freeze Immediately: Don’t wait too long after bringing the pizza home to freeze it. The fresher the pizza when frozen, the better it will taste when baked.
Use Within 2-3 Months: For the best taste and quality, try to use the frozen pizza within 2-3 months. After this time, the quality may begin to deteriorate.
How to Reheat Papa Murphy’s Pizza
If you’ve baked your pizza and have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge and reheated later. To keep the pizza tasting fresh:
Reheat in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the pizza directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Avoid the Microwave: While the microwave is quick, it can make the crust soggy. If you must use a microwave, place a cup of water in the microwave with the pizza to help keep the crust from getting too soft.
Papa Murphy’s pizzas are a delicious and convenient option for a quick meal at home. However, like all fresh foods, they have a limited shelf life. By storing your pizza properly in the fridge and knowing the signs of spoilage, you can enjoy your pizza at its best. If you find that you can’t eat the pizza within the recommended time, freezing it is a great way to extend its life. Remember, when in doubt, it’s better to be safe and discard any pizza that may have gone bad.
