How To Remove Pizza From Oven Rack: 2023 Guide (Updated)

Last Updated on May 17, 2023 by Lori Walker

As someone who has baked countless pizzas, I know the frustration of removing a hot pizza from the oven rack without losing half of the toppings.

We have some tips and tricks on how to remove your pizza from the oven rack without sacrificing delicious toppings or getting burned.

Table of Contents

5 Ways To Remove Pizza From The Oven Rack Without Burning Yourself

1. Use Oven Mitts

The safest and easiest way to remove pizza [1] from the oven rack is to use oven mitts. Slide the oven mitts over your hands and carefully lift the pizza from the rack, holding it steady.

2. Use a Pizza Peel

A pizza peel is a wooden or metal tool with a flat surface and a long handle. Place the peel under the pizza, slide it gently, and lift it off the rack.

3. Use a Sheet of Parchment Paper

Place a sheet of parchment paper on top of the oven rack before putting the pizza on it. Slide the parchment paper out from under the pizza when removing the pizza.

4. Use a Cutting Board

Place a large or flat baking sheet next to the oven. Slide the pizza onto the cutting board or baking sheet using a spatula or pizza peel.

5. Use Tongs

If you don’t have oven mitts, you can use tongs to lift the pizza from the oven rack carefully. Use sturdy tongs to support the pizza’s weight without dropping it.

How Can You Prevent Pizza From Sticking To The Oven Rack In The First Place?

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in the recipe. This ensures that the oven rack is heated, reducing the chance of pizza sticking.
Use parchment paper or a pizza stone: Place a piece on the oven rack before placing the pizza. Alternatively, use a pizza stone that has been preheated in the oven.
Grease the oven rack: Lightly grease it with cooking oil or non-stick spray before placing the pizza on it. This creates a barrier between the pizza and the rack, preventing it from sticking.
Use a pizza pan: Place the pizza on a pan with holes in the bottom. This allows heat to circulate and prevents the pizza from sticking to the oven rack.
Use cornmeal: Sprinkle cornmeal [2] on the oven rack before placing the pizza. The cornmeal is a barrier between the pizza and the rack, preventing it from sticking.

“I don’t eat fast food, but I can’t live without pizza.”
– Trevor Donovan, American Actor

What Are Some Common Mistakes To Avoid When Removing Pizza From Oven Rack?

Waiting too long to remove the pizza from the oven rack can cause it to stick and become difficult to remove.
A dull or inappropriate tool, such as a butter knife or plastic spatula, can damage the pizza and make it harder to remove.
Do not use oven mitts or a thick kitchen towel to protect your hands from the heat or the hot pan.
Tugging or pulling on the pizza too hard can cause it to tear or break apart.
Removing the pizza before it is fully cooked can cause it to fall apart or stick to the rack.

Can You Use A Pizza Peel To Remove Pizza From Oven Rack?

You can use a pizza peel to remove the pizza from the oven rack. It is one of the most common and efficient methods for removing pizza from the oven rack without burning yourself.

Slide the pizza peel under the pizza and lift it off the rack. Be sure to use a thin, sturdy pizza peel to avoid accidents.

What Are Some Alternative Methods To Remove Pizza Without A Pizza Peel?

If you don’t have a pizza peel, you can try a few alternative methods to remove pizza from the oven rack.

One method is to use a large spatula or two spatulas to carefully slide the pizza off the rack and onto a cutting board.

Another method is to use a clean kitchen towel or oven mitt to lift and transfer the pizza to a cutting board carefully.

You can also use a baking sheet or tray lightly coated with cornmeal or flour as a makeshift peel to slide the pizza off the rack.

It’s essential to exercise caution and use heat-resistant materials to avoid burning yourself or damaging the pizza.

Also Read: How Does Pizza Steel Differ From Cast Iron?

FAQs

Is it safe to put pizza directly on the oven rack?

It is safe to put pizza directly on the oven rack if it is adequately supported and the temperature and time are adjusted accordingly.

When should a pizza be removed from the oven?

A pizza should be removed from the oven when the crust is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This usually takes 10-15 minutes in a preheated oven at 425-450°F (218-232°C).

Find out what’s the ideal oven temperature to keep pizza warm here.

Final Thoughts

Removing pizza from the oven rack requires caution and proper technique to avoid burning yourself or ruining your pizza.

Using a pizza peel is the best method, but alternative options include using a spatula or parchment paper.

It is also essential to prevent the pizza from sticking to the oven rack, such as using cornmeal or a non-stick spray.

Following these tips and tricks, you can safely and successfully remove your pizza from the oven rack and enjoy a delicious slice.

References:

https://www.seriouseats.com/pizza-recipes-5117816
https://www.thekitchn.com/whats-the-difference-between-cornmeal-and-polenta-word-of-mouth-211404

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Lori Walker

Lori is a self-taught baker and former owner of a successful bakery. She shares her love for baking through her blog, featuring delicious recipes, baking tips, and a behind-the-scenes look at running a bakery. You can speak with her directly at [email protected].