Can You Put a Pizza Box in the Oven?

There are a few life lessons nobody told us. Like how to fold a fitted sheet. Or that the smoke detector is not to be used as a cooking timer. So, if you’ve ever thought, “Can you put a pizza box in the oven?” you’re not alone. But before you crank the dial and walk away, let's break down the science (and the safety risks) of cardboard in the oven.

Is It Safe to Put a Pizza Box in the Oven?

The short answer is no. It’s not safe to put a pizza box in the oven. We get the temptation, maybe you’re trying to keep your Hungry Howie’s pizza warm during a movie marathon or reheat a half-finished pie. But pizza boxes are made from corrugated cardboard, sometimes lined with wax paper or coated with ink, glue, and food-safe chemicals. None of these things are oven BFFs.

The risk? Fire. Cardboard can catch quickly, especially when combined with residual grease. And even if your oven doesn’t go full-blaze, heating the box can release unpleasant fumes or transfer unwanted flavors to your pizza. So, when it comes to putting a cardboard box in the oven, we recommend just don’t.

What Temperature Does Cardboard Burn?

Here’s where things get fiery. The ignition temperature of cardboard hovers between 427°F and 450°F. Or, where things go from warm and toasty and everything’s fine to “Where’s the fire extinguisher ?!”

Even if your oven is set lower than that, leftover pizza oil, hot spots, or preheating errors can push that temp right into danger territory. If you’ve ever Googled “what temp does cardboard burn” or “cardboard in oven,” the real answer is: don’t let it get that far. Keep pizza, not cardboard, as your oven's guest.

Can You Reheat Pizza in the Box in the Oven?

Technically, yes. Safely? Not really.

If you’ve asked, “Can I reheat pizza in the box?” or “Is reheating pizza in box in oven a thing?” you’re likely trying to save time (or dishes). But the box wasn’t designed to handle oven-level heat, even for a few minutes.

If you're absolutely determined, here’s the safest way to cheat:

• Set your oven to no higher than 170°F–200°F
• Remove any wax paper or plastic liners inside the box
• Keep the door slightly cracked, and never walk away
• Limit heating time to under 10 minutes

That said, the better move? Skip the box. Your pizza deserves better and so does your smoke detector.

Can You Put a Pizza Box in the Oven to Keep Pizza Warm?

We get it. Maybe dinner’s running late, or you're trying to stretch that delivery magic of a hot pizza pie. But using your oven as a pizza warmer still comes with risks.

Even on the “warm” setting (usually around 170°F–200°F), grease + cardboard = fire hazard if left too long or too hot. Plus, steam buildup inside the closed box can make the crust soggy. Not exactly the Flavored Crust® finish you signed up for.

Instead, try this:

• Use a warming drawer, if you’ve got one.
• Wrap slices in foil and place them on a low-temp baking sheet.
• Or store the box on top of the oven (not in it) to gently retain heat.

Better yet, grab an insulated pizza bag if you’re planning ahead.

Safer Ways to Reheat Pizza in the Oven

Here’s how to reheat pizza in the oven the right way, without risking your eyebrows or your kitchen.

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Place pizza slices directly on a baking sheet, foil, or oven-safe tray.
3. Heat for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is gooey and the crust is crisp again.

This method avoids the cardboard-in-oven drama while giving your leftovers a second life. It’s the safe, delicious way to keep your pizza delivery night going strong.

Want even more tips? Here’s our full guide on how to reheat pizza in the oven.

How to Reheat Hungry Howie’s Pizza the Right Way

Hungry Howie’s pizza is made fresh to order, and whether you’re dealing with late-night leftovers or a reheating moment the next day, we’ve got your back.

• Oven: 350°F, 10–15 minutes on foil or tray.
• Microwave: 30–60 seconds with a cup of water nearby to reduce sogginess.
• Air fryer: 350°F for 4–6 minutes for that extra crisp.

Your Hungry Howie’s pizza box was designed for safe pizza transport, not as a cookware substitute. So, treat it right, and you’ll enjoy every slice the way it was meant to be. (Find more tips on reheating pizza the right way.)

Need a fresh pizza right now? Order pizza online for takeout or pizza delivery near you. And if you’re feeling bold, check out our Secret Menu for pies worth reheating.