The Methods Ranked

  1. 1

    Frying pan method (best)

    Place a slice in a dry non-stick frying pan over medium heat. No oil needed. Cook for 2 minutes until the base starts to crisp. Add 2–3 drops of water to the empty part of the pan (away from the pizza), then immediately place a lid on. The steam melts the cheese without making the base soggy. 1 more minute. Done. Perfect crispy base, fully melted toppings every time.

  2. 2

    Oven method (best for multiple slices)

    Preheat oven to 200°C. Place slices on a baking tray — not a rack, as toppings may drip. Heat for 8–10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the base is crispy. Far better than microwave but takes longer.

  3. 3

    Air fryer (very good, fast)

    190°C for 3–4 minutes. The circulating hot air crisps the base excellently. Best for 1–2 slices. Do not overlap slices.

  4. 4

    Microwave (worst but fastest)

    If you must — place the slice on a microwave-safe plate with a cup of water next to it. The water adds moisture and prevents the cheese from going rubbery. 45–60 seconds on medium power. The base will be soft but the toppings will be hot and the cheese melted.

Cold pizza is also greatLeftover pizza eaten cold from the fridge is genuinely good — many people prefer it. The cheese firms up and the flavours develop overnight. Try it before you reach for the pan.

How to Store Pizza for Reheating

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in cling film in the fridge. Eat within 3 days. Stack slices with a layer of baking paper between them to prevent sticking. Do not leave pizza at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes — freeze slices in a single layer on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid (prevents them sticking). Reheat from frozen in a 200°C oven for 12–15 minutes, or defrost overnight in the fridge first and use the frying pan method.
Microwave heat causes the cheese proteins to tighten and the base to steam, making both rubbery and chewy. The water trick helps considerably, but the frying pan or oven method will always give a far better result.