costco detroit pizza cooking instructions

Costco Detroit Pizza: Mastering the Oven for a Perfect Slice

Costco’s Detroit-style pizza offers a convenient way to enjoy a thick, rectangular pizza with crispy edges and a generous topping of cheese and sauce. Getting the cooking process just right is crucial to achieving that signature Detroit-style experience at home. Here’s a comprehensive guide to baking your Costco Detroit pizza to perfection.

Optimal Oven Temperature and Baking Time

The recommended oven temperature for cooking a Costco Detroit pizza is typically 400°F (200°C). Baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven, but generally, you should aim for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on the pizza during the last few minutes to ensure the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Consider using an oven thermometer to verify your oven’s actual temperature, as some ovens can be inaccurate. The Detroit-style pizza, known for its pan-baked crust, benefits from a consistent, high heat.

Preheating is Key

Preheating your oven is essential. Allow your oven to fully preheat to 400°F (200°C) before placing the pizza inside. This ensures the crust cooks evenly and develops its characteristic crispy bottom. Don’t skip this step, as it significantly impacts the final texture and flavor.

Placement in the Oven

For even cooking, place the Costco Detroit pizza directly on the middle rack of your oven. This allows for consistent heat distribution and helps the crust bake properly. Avoid placing the pizza too high or too low in the oven, as this can lead to uneven cooking or burning.

Checking for Doneness

The pizza is done when the crust is golden brown, the cheese is fully melted and bubbly with slight browning, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pizza, inserting it into the center of the pie. If the crust is browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil for the last few minutes of baking.

Letting it Rest

Once the pizza is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents it from sliding off when you cut the pizza. Resting also makes the pizza easier to handle and enjoy. Read more about the history of Detroit-style pizza on Wikipedia.

FAQs About Cooking Costco Detroit Pizza

What if the cheese is browning too quickly?

If the cheese is browning too quickly, tent the pizza loosely with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning.

Can I cook the pizza on a baking sheet?

While it’s best to cook the pizza directly on the oven rack for optimal crispiness, you can use a baking sheet if needed. However, the crust might not be as crispy.

What’s the best way to reheat Costco Detroit pizza?

The best way to reheat the pizza is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a skillet on the stovetop for a crispy crust.

Can I add extra toppings to the pizza before baking?

Yes, you can add extra toppings to the pizza before baking. Just be careful not to overload it, as this can make the crust soggy.

What temperature should the pizza be cooked to?

The internal temperature of the pizza should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s cooked through.

Summary

Cooking Costco Detroit pizza to perfection involves preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), baking it for 20-25 minutes on the middle rack, and ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). By following these steps, you can enjoy a delicious, crispy, and satisfying Detroit-style pizza at home.