Pizza, the iconic dish that originated in Italy, has become a beloved staple for millions in the United States. With over 75,000 pizza restaurants dotting the country and supporting close to 900,000 employees, it’s evident that Americans have developed a deep and unwavering love for this cheesy delight (via Statista). From thin-crust delicacies to hearty Chicago-style deep-dish wonders, pizza caters to a diverse range of tastes. Whether you prefer a New York-style white pizza or a rectangular Detroit-style creation, there’s a perfect slice out there for everyone.
The numbers don’t lie. In 2021 alone, pizza restaurant sales amounted to an impressive $45.5 billion, while the frozen pizza market held its own at over $6 billion (via Statista). Clearly, pizza holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of fast-food enthusiasts across the nation.
If you’re a pizza aficionado looking to take your pizza game to the next level, we’ve got you covered with some ingenious pizza hacks. These 12 tips and tricks will elevate your pizza experience and introduce you to a world of flavors and possibilities that you may not have considered before. So, buckle up and get ready to explore some creative and mouthwatering pizza hacks that will leave you craving more.
1. Reheat Cold Pizza Like a Pro
We all know the irresistible charm of cold pizza leftovers. Somehow, the flavors seem to intensify, and you can taste every topping more distinctly. But as the next day rolls in, your cold pizza slice may become less appetizing with a hardened base. Don’t worry; there’s a clever TikTok hack to revive your leftover pizza and restore its glory. Instead of microwaving or risking overcooking it in the oven, try this unique method.
Heat a pan on the stove without adding any oil and place your cold pizza slice on it. Now, open a can of light beer, and when the pan is hot, pour a small amount of beer around the slice. Cover the pan with a lid and leave it for about 5 minutes. The result? The cheese will melt, the slice will soften, and the base will regain its crispy goodness. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, simply add a slice of pizza and some water to the hot, dry pan instead. Either way, you’ll be amazed at how this hack transforms your cold pizza experience.
2. Skip Pre-Cut Pizza for a Better Experience
When ordering pizza, you might be tempted to go for the pre-cut option for convenience. After all, it saves you the trouble of dividing the pie yourself. However, consider embracing the Italian way and avoid ordering pre-sliced pizza. There’s a reason why Italians prefer their pizza unsliced, and this hack offers several advantages.
Apart from preserving the flavors and textures of your pizza, avoiding pre-sliced pizza ensures that your pie stays warm for a more extended period. Slicing the pizza as you eat it prevents the toppings from sliding off and leaving soggy ends. Moreover, when you’re sharing a pizza, it’s more fun to slice it as you go. So, the next time you order a pizza, opt for the uncut version and savor the authentic pizza experience.
3. Pre-Bake Your Pizza Dough for Extra Crispiness
Achieving the perfect crust of a pizzeria-quality pizza at home can be a challenge, especially if you’re using a regular oven. But fear not; this TikTok hack will take your pizza dough to a whole new level of crispiness. Preheat your oven to its highest temperature and let it heat up for at least 45 minutes. Meanwhile, stretch your pizza dough and add the tomato sauce.
But here comes the twist: Before you load it up with toppings, partially bake the crust in the oven for a few minutes. This preliminary baking will cause the crust around the edges to rise and brown, resulting in a crispier pizza base. Once you’ve partially baked the crust, add your desired toppings, such as basil leaves, grated cheese, and cubes of mozzarella, along with a drizzle of olive oil. Pop the pizza back into the oven for a few more minutes until the cheese melts and achieves that perfect gooey goodness. You’ll be amazed at the difference this simple hack makes to your pizza experience.
4. Create a Quick Homemade Pizza with Pizza Naan
When you’re craving homemade pizza but don’t have the time or energy to make the dough from scratch, this TikTok hack will come to your rescue. If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine, you’ll love this hack. All you need is a round naan to use as your pizza base. Pop the naan into your air fryer and spread some pizza sauce on it. For a quick fix, you can use store-bought pizza sauce, or if you’re feeling adventurous, whip up an easy homemade pizza sauce.
Next, add your preferred toppings. For a simple cheesy delight, sprinkle sliced red onions and grated mozzarella over the sauce. Bake the naan pizza for a few minutes, and your mouthwatering homemade pizza is ready to enjoy. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using garlic naan as the base for an extra burst of flavor. Add spinach, slices of mozzarella, and a dollop of pesto with minced garlic for a gourmet twist. Another exciting option is to add pepperoni both under and on top of the melted cheese, for a taste sensation that’s hard to resist (via YouTube).
5. Fit Two Pizzas in One Oven with a Clever Trick
Sharing pizza is a joyous experience, whether you’re having a family movie night, hosting a teenage hangout, or enjoying a grown-up get-together. But fitting more than one pizza in a standard-sized oven can be a challenge. Placing two pizzas on separate shelves might result in uneven cooking, and trying to squeeze them both onto a single shelf can lead to a messy overlap.
Thankfully, there’s an easy solution to this dilemma. Instead of trying to fit two round pizzas onto a rectangular oven tray, get creative with their shapes. Cut each pizza in half and arrange them with the cut edges aligned with the sides of the oven tray. In essence, you’re creating half-moon shapes that fit neatly together, with their rounded sides facing inward and meeting in the middle. This clever hack ensures that both pizzas cook evenly and are ready to be enjoyed together.
6. Savor the Flavor of Carb-Free Pizza
For pizza enthusiasts who want to indulge without the guilt of carbs, there are delightful keto-friendly options that will satisfy your pizza cravings. Say hello to a keto-friendly, carb-free pizza hack that will leave you delighted. Traditional pizza dough is typically high in carbs, but this hack allows you to enjoy all the delectable pizza flavors without the bready base.
One option is the keto-friendly Baby Dash pizza hack from TikTok. Heat your mini waffle maker, spray it with some cooking oil, and add grated mozzarella and Italian seasoning. Top with pepperoni slices and more grated cheese. Cook and let it cool on some kitchen towels to soak up any excess oil. Serve it with a tomatoey dip for a low-carb, keto-friendly pizza experience.
Another carb-free pizza hack comes from TikTok user @keto.dapper. Microwave grated mozzarella and cream cheese, add almond flour and an egg to make a dough. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until you have a smooth and pliable dough. Then, drop your dough ball onto a greaseproof paper-lined tray and shape it into a pizza base.
Next, spread pizza sauce over the dough, and add your favorite toppings. For a classic Margherita flavor, go for grated mozzarella and fresh basil leaves. If you prefer a meatier option, add some Black Forest ham and cooked bacon strips. Once your pizza is fully loaded, pop it into the oven and let it bake to perfection.
The result is a delectable, guilt-free pizza that satisfies your cravings without the extra carbs. You’ll be amazed at how flavorful and satisfying this low-carb pizza hack can be, and it’s perfect for those following a keto lifestyle.
7. Mix Pizza Dough with Just Two Ingredients
Sometimes, you want a quick and easy pizza dough recipe that still delivers on taste and texture. Look no further than this no-knead pizza dough hack that requires only two ingredients. Mix a cup of self-rising flour with a cup of non-fat Greek yogurt, and don’t forget to add your favorite seasonings. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until it forms a soft and smooth dough.
On a floured surface, roll out the dough into your desired pizza base thickness. Be gentle with the dough to avoid making it too sticky. Grease your pizza tray before adding the rolled-out dough. Now comes the fun part—topping your pizza with all your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of classic pepperoni, veggies galore, or a mixture of gourmet toppings, this versatile dough will cater to all your pizza cravings.
One creative twist on this two-ingredient dough hack comes from Brit + Co, who added 50% more flour to the original recipe. The result was a “super fluffy” pizza crust that was slightly soft in the middle. To address this, they pre-baked the dough blind for a few minutes, giving the crust more substance and making it less floppy. So, feel free to experiment and find the perfect dough consistency that suits your taste.
8. Pan Fry a Tortilla Pizza Wrap for a Quick Fix
When you’re short on time but still crave a delicious pizza experience, this TikTok hack will save the day. While tortillas are traditionally used in Mexican cuisine, they also make for a fantastic pizza base alternative. Prepare a delightful pizza wrap by layering your tortilla with pizza sauce, pepperoni slices, sliced mushrooms, chopped green bell peppers, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Next, top it off with shredded mozzarella.
But here’s the twist: Instead of leaving the wrap flat, fold it in a way that divides the toppings into separate quarters. Fold the sauce quarter over the meat, then fold that over the vegetables, and finally over the cheese. Now, pan fry the folded wrap in a little oil, pressing down gently and flipping it until it’s golden brown and the cheese has melted to perfection.
This TikTok hack quickly went viral, and it’s easy to see why. The tortilla pizza wrap offers a delightful and quick alternative to traditional pizza, making it a hit with pizza lovers looking for a fast and tasty meal option.
9. Fold Your Pizza Box for Efficient Leftover Storage
When you indulge in takeout pizza, you may have some leftover slices that you’d hate to see go to waste. But storing pizza in its original box can take up valuable space in your refrigerator. Fear not; there’s a genius TikTok pizza box folding hack that will save you space and keep your leftover slices fresh.
First, remove the lid of the pizza box (you might have already used it as a makeshift plate!). If the sides of the box have perforated triangular sections, rip these off. You’ll be left with a box base with two large V-shaped sides. Now, make sure your leftover slices are on one side of the box rather than spread out between the two.
Next, flip the back half of the box over and slot it into the front, with the sides overlapping. Essentially, you’re creating a smaller and more compact box that securely houses your leftover pizza slices. This hack not only saves space but also keeps your pizza slices fresh and easy to access. No more juggling oversized pizza boxes in the fridge!
10. Upgrade Store-Bought Pizza for a Gourmet Experience
On a Friday night when you’re craving pizza and don’t have the time to make it from scratch, store-bought frozen pizza may seem like the easy option. However, if you find yourself yearning for a more gourmet experience, this hack will take your store-bought pizza to new heights.
Before you pop your frozen pizza into the oven, add an extra touch of flavor and texture by brushing the outer crust with extra virgin olive oil. The oil will not only give your crust a beautiful golden-brown finish but also help the cheese melt to perfection.
To take it a step further, consider adding more cheese to your pizza. Start by taking off the toppings and layering the cheese directly onto the crust. Then, reapply the toppings on top of the cheese. However, be mindful not to go overboard with the cheese, as certain types can be too hard or release too much moisture during cooking.
For a burst of flavor, drizzle some pesto over the pizza, and add fresh herbs like basil for a gourmet touch. This hack allows you to upgrade your store-bought pizza into a delicious and satisfying meal that feels like it came straight from a fancy pizzeria.
Also Read: Starbucks’ Delightful Hot Chocolate with a Hint of Caffeine
11. Experiment with Different Pizza Layering Techniques
If you’re a pizza connoisseur looking to add some creativity to your pizza-making process, try experimenting with different layering techniques. Instead of following the traditional sequence of base, sauce, cheese, and toppings, there are several fun and exciting ways to layer your pizza.
One method is to add thin slices of cheese directly to the crust before adding the sauce and toppings. This clever hack allows the cheese to melt directly onto the crust, creating a delicious caramelized layer that adds extra flavor and texture to your pizza. For the best results, use deli mozzarella and top it with pepperoni and jalapeños. Remember to go easy on the toppings, as less is more when it comes to achieving an evenly baked and crispy pizza.
Another layering technique involves starting with the toppings at the edge of the pizza crust and gradually working your way toward the center. By adding the cheese after the toppings, you create a protective layer that holds everything in place during baking. This method is especially useful when using ingredients that release moisture, such as mushrooms. Keeping the cheese on top prevents the toppings from becoming soggy and ensures a more enjoyable pizza experience.
For a different twist, you can put the toppings on top of the cheese. Certain ingredients, like pepperoni, benefit from being directly exposed to the heat, allowing them to sizzle and release their flavors. Additionally, placing toppings on top of the cheese allows the cheese to melt over them, resulting in a delicious fusion of flavors.
Feel free to get creative and experiment with various layering techniques to discover your favorite pizza combinations. The possibilities are endless, and you might stumble upon a unique pizza masterpiece that becomes your new go-to recipe.
12. Transform Leftover Pizza into Flavorful Croutons
Pizza and salad go hand in hand, and if you have leftover pizza slices, you can use them to create a delightful salad with a twist. Rather than adding traditional croutons to your salad, why not use pizza slices for an extra burst of flavor?
To make pizza croutons, start by cutting off the crust edges of your leftover pizza slices. Then, slice the crust into bite-size pieces. Drizzle some olive oil over the crust pieces and season them to your liking. Mix a vinaigrette in a bowl, adding chopped olives, salami, mozzarella pearls, red onions, and bell peppers. Toss in the pizza crust croutons for a pizza-infused salad that’s sure to impress your taste buds.
Another approach to pizza croutons comes from Thrillist. They use the entire pizza slice and stack one slice on top of another, ensuring that the fillings are sandwiched between the slices. Then, they slice the stacked pizzas into strips using the pizza’s edge as a guide. Finally, they cut the strips into squarish pieces and fry them until they’re golden brown and the cheese has melted. These pizza croutons are perfect for adding a burst of flavor and texture to your salads or soups.
Also Read: The Truth Behind Costco’s Irresistible Rotisserie Chickens
13. Grill Your Pizza for a Smoky Flavor
If you’re a fan of smoky and charred flavors, then this hack is perfect for you. Instead of baking your pizza in the oven, take it outdoors and grill it for a unique and delicious twist.
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating up, prepare your pizza dough and toppings as usual. Once the grill is hot, lightly brush one side of the pizza dough with olive oil and place it oil-side down on the grill grates. Cook the dough for about 2-3 minutes or until it develops grill marks and becomes slightly crispy.
Next, flip the dough over and quickly add your sauce, cheese, and toppings to the grilled side. Close the grill lid and let the pizza cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the crust is cooked through. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Grilling your pizza adds a smoky flavor and a delightful charred texture to the crust, taking your pizza game to a whole new level. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy pizza, especially during warm summer gatherings or backyard parties.
14. Create a Pizza Pocket for On-the-Go Snacking
If you’re always on the move and love the convenience of handheld snacks, this pizza hack is a game-changer. Transform your favorite pizza ingredients into a portable and delicious pizza pocket that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere.
To make a pizza pocket, start by rolling out a portion of pizza dough into a circular shape. Place your desired toppings, sauce, and cheese on one half of the dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges. Be creative and experiment with different fillings to suit your taste.
Fold the other half of the dough over the toppings, forming a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp and seal the edges, ensuring that none of the delicious fillings escape during baking.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the pizza pocket on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the pocket is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
Once done, let it cool slightly before biting into the warm and savory pizza pocket. It’s a convenient and mess-free way to enjoy pizza on-the-go, making it perfect for picnics, road trips, or a quick and satisfying snack.
In conclusion, pizza lovers rejoice! These 14 must-try pizza hacks are here to take your pizza experience to a whole new level. From reviving leftover pizza with a beer-infused sizzle to experimenting with different layering techniques for exciting flavor combinations, these hacks offer something for every pizza enthusiast.
Whether you prefer the convenience of store-bought pizza or love making your own artisanal-style creations, these hacks are designed to enhance your pizza game and introduce you to new and delightful flavors. So, gather your pizza-loving friends and family, try out these creative hacks, and enjoy a pizza feast like never before. Remember, the best part of pizza is its versatility, so don’t hesitate to put your own twist on these hacks and make them uniquely yours. Happy pizza-making!
Also Read: The Perks of Using a Nonstick Pan for Making Thai Omelets
