Additional Coverage:
- I tried 5 different frozen pizzas, and found the best-tasting pie also cooked the fastest (businessinsider.com)
Frozen Pizza Face-Off: One Pie Reigns Supreme
Frozen pizza sales are soaring, likely fueled by current economic concerns. But with a freezer aisle full of options, which pie is worth your money?
I embarked on a cheesy quest, sampling five popular brands – DiGiorno, Amy’s, Newman’s Own, Red Baron, and Tombstone – to determine a frozen pizza champion. All pizzas were cheese-only and cooked according to package directions.
While prices fluctuate, these pizzas generally cost between $4.50 and $14.
Tombstone’s five-cheese pizza, uniquely packaged in plastic wrap, was first up. Its cardboard base and the peel-off label (which I nearly lost) were a departure from the typical box.
While the crispy crust and nicely browned cheese delivered on its promise, the overall flavor was unremarkable. My husband, a childhood Tombstone aficionado, suggested adding extra toppings to elevate the experience.
Next, the iconic DiGiorno rising crust. While the rising crust did its thing, the pizza took a brief detour towards disaster, threatening to slip between the oven grates mid-bake.
Crisis averted, the result was a thick, yeasty crust with a satisfying crispness. The generous cheese layer, though prone to slippage, complemented the thick sauce.
Red Baron’s classic crust four-cheese pizza wasn’t much to look at, but it surprised with its robust flavor. The distinct orange cheeses offered a welcome sharpness, and the thin, crispy crust (though lacking definition from the edge) was enjoyable. My husband declared it his favorite, noting its unique departure from the typical “frozen pizza” taste.
Amy’s organic, hand-stretched wheat crust pizza promised wholesome goodness. While the quick bake time and tangy tomato sauce were appreciated, the spongy crust and lack of cheesy flavor disappointed. Sadly, this slice lacked the structural integrity to hold its shape.
Finally, Newman’s Own four-cheese multigrain crust pizza. With a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, and Asiago, this pie cooked to bubbly perfection in under 12 minutes. The crunchy crust, flavorful sauce dotted with herbs, and perfectly salty, non-slip cheese made this pizza a clear winner.
While all pizzas had their merits, Newman’s Own emerged victorious. Its quick cook time, balanced flavors, and satisfying textures earned it the top spot. But ultimately, any of these frozen pizzas offer a convenient and cheesy meal, perfect for a quick dinner fix.