How Big is a 20 Inch Pizza & How Many Does It Feed?

How big is a 20 inch pizza? If pizzas could talk, this one would probably need a grand introduction. A pie that commands attention and evokes memories of large gatherings and hearty laughter. But what do those 20 inches really translate to?

The 20-inch measurement refers to its diameter – the distance straight across its heart from one edge to the other. In the metric world, a round 20-inch pizza is approximately 50 centimeters of pure, cheesy delight and has a surface area of roughly 314 square inches or 2.18 square feet.

But why am I breaking this down for you? Simply because pizza isn’t just food; it’s a science and an art combined. With a crusty background in the world of pizzas, I’ve dedicated countless hours to mastering their dimensions, tastes, and the stories they tell.

So, grab your favorite pizza cutter and join me on this deliciously educational journey. We’ll explore more than just sizes – from the art of crafting the perfect pie to its storied history and beyond.

What Size Is a 20 Inch Pizza?

Let’s dive deeper into the pizza-size universe by answering the frequently posed question: “how big is a 20 inch pizza?” When we throw around numbers like 20 inches, it’s crucial to know exactly what we’re referencing.

In the world of pizzas (and most circular objects, for that matter), the size is usually measured by its diameter. Now, the diameter isn’t just a fancy term for pizza aficionados to impress their friends. It’s the length of a straight line that goes right across the pizza, passing through its very center, and touching the edges on either side. In simpler words, if you were to cut your 20-inch pizza in half, the length of that cut would be the diameter.

But where does the diameter fit into the realm of pizza math? For those of you eager to calculate a pizza’s size on your own, it all starts with understanding the radius. The radius (often symbolized as r) is simply half of the diameter. So, for our 20-inch pizza, the radius would be 10 inches. Using the formula D = 2r, you can quickly find out the diameter by doubling the radius.

Now, if you’re looking to calculate the total area of your pizza (perhaps to figure out the space for all those yummy pizza toppings), you’ll be working with a different formula. The area of a pizza (or any circle) is given by A = πr^2. π (Pi) is a mathematical constant that’s approximately 3.14. So, for a 20-inch pizza, the area is roughly 314 square inches.

What is the Circumference of a 20 Inch Pizza?

After understanding the diameter and the area of our beloved 20-inch pizza, let’s circle around to another intriguing aspect: its circumference. Remember when we posed the question, “how big is a 20 inch pizza?” Well, knowing its circumference adds another layer to that understanding.

For the uninitiated, the circumference of a circle (or in this case, our pizza) is the distance around it. It’s like taking a leisurely stroll along the crusty edges of your pizza, appreciating every inch.

Now, calculating the circumference is quite straightforward. The formula is C = πD, where C is the circumference and D is the diameter. Given that π (Pi) is approximately 3.14 and our pizza’s diameter is 20 inches, the circumference would be around 62.8 inches. Imagine that: over 5 feet of glorious, crusty edge waiting to be devoured!

Knowing the circumference is more than just pizza trivia to show off at your next dinner party. It helps when you’re looking to evenly space out those toppings or if you’re aiming to create that perfect, consistent cornicione around the edge.

How to Measure a 20 Inch Pizza?

Measuring a pizza might sound a bit out of the ordinary, especially if you’re more accustomed to diving straight into devouring it. But knowing how to measure a pizza accurately can be fun, informative, and even essential in some scenarios. For example, confirming if your pizza delivery truly honored your 20-inch order or simply to indulge your inner pizza geek. So, how do you ensure you get it right? Let’s break it down:

Step 1: Get the Right Tools Start with a measuring tape or a ruler. If you’re aiming for precision, a flexible measuring tape is your best bet since it can easily contour to the pizza’s shape.

Step 2: Find the Center To measure the diameter (which is what we’re often referring to when we say a 20-inch pizza), you need to measure across the very center of the pizza. Locate the approximate center of your pizza.

Step 3: Measure the Diameter Place the starting end of your measuring tape or ruler on one edge of the pizza, ensuring it passes straight across the center, and stretch it out to the opposite edge. This measurement is your pizza’s diameter.

Step 4: Double-check For accuracy, you can measure the diameter at a couple of different spots. This way, if your pizza isn’t a perfect circle (a common case with hand-tossed beauties), you’ll get an average measurement.

Comparing a 20 Inch Pizza to Other Sizes

While the 20-inch pizza is undeniably a behemoth in the world of pies, understanding its size in comparison to other popular sizes can offer a fresh perspective. Plus, knowing these comparisons can be invaluable when determining value, suitability for occasions, or even when merely satiating curiosity. Let’s dive in!

How Big Is A 20 Inch Pizza Compared To Other Sizes?

A 20-inch pizza can often feel like the giant in a fairy tale when placed beside its counterparts. Let’s visualize:

• Small Pizzas (around 8 inches): Think of a 20-inch pizza as roughly equivalent to two and a half small pizzas laid side by side.
• Medium Pizzas (about 12 inches): A 20-inch pie is like one and two-thirds of a medium pizza.
• Large Pizzas (usually 16 inches): Here, the 20-inch pizza is like a large pizza with an extra 4 inches of circumference tacked on for good measure.

What is a 20 Inch Pizza Equivalent To?

In the realm of fun comparisons, let’s get creative:

Burger Galore: A 20-inch pizza’s surface area is akin to placing around 25 regular-sized burgers side by side. That’s a burger feast on a pizza!

Taco Fiesta: If you’re a taco fan, imagine 40 tacos arranged in a circle. That’s the space a 20-inch pizza would occupy.

Sandwich Delight: Ever thought of sandwiches? This giant pie is equivalent to roughly 15 average-sized sandwiches laid out.

Moving on to smart comparisons:

Price Per Square Inch: This can be your secret weapon in the pizza value war. For instance, if a 20-inch pizza costs $20, and its area is approximately 314 square inches, then it costs roughly $0.064 per square inch. Using this method, you can compare pizzas from Domino’s, Pizza Hut, Papa John’s, and Pizza GoGo for the best bang for your buck.

Slices Galore: Always check how many slices you’re getting. A thinly sliced 20-inch pizza from Domino’s might have more slices than a thickly cut one from Pizza Hut.

Topping Talk: More space often means more toppings. However, some pizza places might skimp out, so always check the weight and distribution of your toppings.

Quality Check: Size isn’t everything. A smaller pizza from a high-quality establishment like Pizza GoGo could potentially outrank a larger one from a chain with lower ingredient quality.

How Many Slices Does A 20 Inch Pizza Have?

The number of slices a pizza has often depends on the pizzeria’s convention, the country or region, and sometimes even on customer preference. However, there are general standards:

• Traditional Slice Count: Typically, a 20-inch pizza is cut into 8 or 12 slices. This size keeps each piece manageable, especially if you’re the type to fold your slice in half.
• Party Cut (or Square Cut): Some pizzerias offer what’s known as a ‘party cut’ or ‘square cut.’ Here, the pizza is sliced in a grid-like pattern, resulting in small, bite-sized square pieces. While this is more common for thin-crust pizzas like the St. Louis or Chicago thin crust, it can be requested for any pizza, including our grand 20-inch variety. This style might yield anywhere from 16 to 24 pieces.
• Custom Slicing: Some establishments allow you to dictate your slice size. So, if you’ve got a big appetite and fancy tackling larger pieces, you could request just 4 or 6 slices. Conversely, if you’re sharing among a big group with varied appetites, you might ask for it to be sliced into 16 thinner pieces.

A handy tip: If you’re ever unsure, you can always ask the pizzeria how they typically slice their pizzas. Some places might even have charts or visuals to help you understand slice sizes!

How Many People Does a 20 Inch Pizza Feed?

While a pizza’s size is a key factor, it’s not the only one. When trying to gauge how many a 20-inch pizza will serve, consider the following:

1. Appetite and Preferences: Some might devour three slices, while others may be content with just one. Dietary restrictions, personal taste, and individual hunger levels can all influence how much pizza a person consumes.
2. Other Foods and Drinks: If your pizza party has a spread of appetizers, salads, drinks, or desserts, guests might eat fewer pizza slices.
3. Occasion Timing: Is your gathering at lunchtime or late in the evening? The time of day can affect how hungry your guests are. Plus, the longer the event, the more likely people will go back for seconds or thirds.
4. Plate and Utensil Sizes: Believe it or not, the size of your plates can influence consumption. Smaller plates may lead to guests taking fewer slices initially, though they might return for more.

Now, down to the delicious details:

• Pizza Real Estate: A 20-inch pizza covers about 314 square inches, almost the size of 10.5 standard dinner plates. That’s a lot of cheesy real estate!
• Slice Count: Generally, this pizza size is divided into 8 large slices. But remember, the thickness of the crust or the weight of the toppings can change this standard.
• Adult Consumption: On average, a typical adult might consume around 3 slices. However, this varies. Someone with a bigger appetite (or a profound love for pizza) might eat more.
• Feeding Capacity: Given the above, a 20-inch pizza should comfortably feed 2 to 3 adults. If you’ve got a mix of big and small eaters, or you’re offering other foods alongside, you might stretch that to 4 or even 5 people.

How Many Calories Are in a 20 Inch Pizza?

While the universal appeal of this cheesy marvel is undeniable, its caloric content often raises eyebrows, especially for those of us watching our waistlines. But here’s a fun tidbit: just like its toppings and flavors, the calorie count of a 20-inch pizza can vary widely.

The Caloric Breakdown:

The Base and the Crust: Regardless of toppings, the dough itself can contain significant calories. A 20-inch thin crust might have around 1,200 to 1,500 calories, while a regular crust might range from 1,600 to 2,200 calories. Opting for a thick or stuffed crust? That count can go even higher.

The Vegetarian Delight: Generally, vegetable toppings like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives add fewer calories compared to meat toppings. An average 20-inch veggie-loaded pizza could range from 2,300 to 2,800 calories for the whole pie, depending on the amount and variety of veggies and cheese used.

Meaty Indulgence: Meat toppings like pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and beef can substantially increase the caloric content. A meat-loaded 20-inch pizza can range from 2,800 to 3,500 calories, or even more if combined with extra cheese and richer sauces.

Considerations to Keep in Mind:

Sauce Matters: White sauces, barbecue sauces, or other specialty sauces can be more calorific than the traditional tomato-based marinara.

Cheese Galore: While irresistible, cheese, especially in generous amounts, can significantly add to the calorie count. Those delightful cheese pulls often come with added calories!

An Important Note: The above estimates are exactly that – estimates. Actual calorie counts can vary based on specific ingredients, preparation methods, and portion sizes. Plus, let’s not forget that some places might sneak in a bit of extra cheese or a drizzle of oil that can affect the final tally.

What Is The Best Way To Cook A 20 Inch Pizza?

Cooking a 20-inch pizza might seem like a daunting task, especially with its grand size. But with the right technique, equipment, and a dash of patience, you can achieve a crust that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and toppings that are cooked to perfection. Let’s navigate through the art and science of cooking a 20-inch pizza to mouth-watering perfection.

1. The Right Equipment:

• Pizza Stone or Baking Steel: These provide an even, intense heat, emulating the effects of a brick oven. They absorb moisture from the dough, ensuring a crispy crust. Preheat the stone or steel in the oven for at least an hour before baking.
• Pizza Peel: This tool makes it easier to slide the pizza onto the stone or steel and rotate it during baking.
• Pizza Ovens: These modern-day marvels are designed exclusively for pizzas. They reach high temperatures in a short time, replicating the conditions of traditional wood-fired ovens. With their compact size and rapid cooking times, Ooni ovens like the Ooni Koda, in particular, have garnered rave reviews from pizza aficionados worldwide.

2. Oven Settings:

• High Temperatures: Traditional pizzas are baked at scorching temperatures, often exceeding 700°F (370°C). If using a conventional home oven, crank it up to its highest setting, typically between 475°F to 550°F (245°C to 290°C).
• Convection Mode: If your oven has a convection setting, use it. The circulating air ensures even cooking, reducing the risk of those dreaded burnt edges.

3. Rotation for Even Cooking:

• Turn, Don’t Burn: Due to inconsistent heating in most ovens, it’s crucial to rotate the pizza at least once during cooking. Use the pizza peel for this task, turning it 180 degrees halfway through the baking process to ensure an evenly cooked crust and toppings.

4. Stone Baking and Placement:

• Bottom Rack: If using a pizza stone or baking steel in a regular oven, place it on the bottom rack. This position ensures maximum heat absorption.
• Hot Stone, Perfect Pizza: Always slide your pizza onto a thoroughly preheated stone or steel. This immediate blast of heat is what gives pizza its iconic crispy bottom.

5. Cooking Duration:

• Watch the Clock: While cooking times vary, a typical 20-inch pizza in a home oven might take around 10-15 minutes. However, with high-temp pizza ovens like Ooni, the cooking time is drastically reduced, often to mere minutes.

How Long Does It Take to Cook a 20 Inch Pizza?

When it comes to cooking a mammoth 20-inch pizza, achieving that perfect balance between a crispy crust and perfectly melted toppings can sometimes feel like a delicate dance. Various factors can influence the cooking time, ensuring that each bite is a testament to pizza perfection.

1. Type of Oven:

• Conventional Home Oven: Most household ovens can reach temperatures between 475°F to 550°F (245°C to 290°C). For a pizza of this size, the general cooking time can range from 12-20 minutes, depending on the specifics of your oven and the thickness of the pizza.
• Pizza Ovens (like Ooni): These specialized ovens can achieve much higher temperatures than their conventional counterparts, sometimes going beyond 900°F (480°C). As a result, they can cook pizzas incredibly quickly, often in just 4-8 minutes for a 20-inch pie.

2. Thickness of the Crust:

• Thin Crust: As it’s less dense, a thin crust cooks faster. In a conventional oven, you’re likely looking at 10-15 minutes, while in a high-temp pizza oven, it can be done in as little as 4-6 minutes.
• Thick or Deep-Dish: This style requires more time in the oven due to its depth and density. In a conventional oven, anticipate a cooking time of 20-30 minutes. Pizza ovens might take slightly less time, but thick crusts benefit from the slower, more consistent heat of a conventional oven.

3. Toppings Galore:

• Less is More: A pizza with minimal toppings or just cheese can cook faster, as there’s less moisture to evaporate.
• Loaded Up: Pizzas piled high with toppings, especially vegetables that release moisture, can take longer to cook. You might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure everything is cooked through.

4. Preheat is Key:

• Regardless of your cooking method, always preheat your oven or pizza stone. A properly preheated oven ensures consistent cooking times and a perfectly baked pizza.

5. Watch and Learn:

• The above guidelines offer a starting point, but the best indicator is observation. Keep an eye on the crust’s edges and the cheese in the center. Once the edges turn a golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned, your pizza masterpiece is ready to be devoured.

How to Store a 20 Inch Pizza?

There’s nothing quite like the joy of having leftover pizza. But the challenge? Ensuring that the next day’s slice tastes just as delightful as it did fresh out of the oven. Here’s how you can master the art of storing that gargantuan 20-inch pizza without sacrificing taste or texture.

1. Refrigeration: For the Short Term

• Cool Before Storing: Allow your pizza to cool to room temperature, but don’t leave it out for more than two hours to avoid bacterial growth.
• Stack and Wrap: If you have multiple slices, stack them and separate each pair of slices with a piece of parchment paper. Then, tightly wrap the stack in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss.
• Use a Container: Alternatively, place slices in airtight containers. These will help keep the moisture in, ensuring that the crust remains relatively crisp and toppings fresh.
• Time Frame: Refrigerated pizza is best eaten within 3-5 days.

2. Freezing: For Longer Enjoyment

• Flash Freeze: Place individual slices on a baking sheet and freeze them for a couple of hours. Once they’re frozen, you can bundle them together without the slices sticking to one another.
• Wrap Well: Just as with refrigeration, use aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or a zip-top freezer bag to protect your pizza from freezer burn. Ensure you squeeze out as much air as possible if using bags.
• Label and Date: This will help you remember when you froze the pizza and consume it within an optimal period.
• Time Frame: For best quality, consume frozen pizza within 1-2 months.

3. Reheating: Bringing Back the Freshly Baked Taste

• Oven or Toaster Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes or until cheese is melty and the crust is crispy.
• Skillet: This method is excellent for achieving a crispy crust. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place a slice on it and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes or until the base is crispy and the cheese has melted.
• Microwave: While quick, the microwave can make your pizza a bit soggy. If you choose this method, setting a cup of water in the microwave alongside the pizza can help keep the crust from getting too chewy.

Avoiding the Soggy Reheat: Regardless of the method, consider using a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil underneath the pizza to absorb any moisture and keep the crust crisp.

Tips for Ordering a 20 Inch Pizza

When placing your order for a massive pie like the 20-inch pizza, the source matters just as much as the toppings:

• Research the Pizzeria: Not all pizza places are created equal. Consider the reputation and credibility of the pizzeria. Does it specialize in larger-sized pizzas or have good reviews for its 20-inch variant?
• Check Online Reviews: Websites like Yelp or TripAdvisor can provide insights into customer experiences, especially concerning the freshness and taste of larger pizzas.
• Ask About Freshness: Inquire about their dough and topping freshness. Some pizzerias might use pre-made bases for large sizes, compromising on the overall taste and texture.

Tips for Stretching Dough for a 20 Inch Pizza

Working with a larger surface area can be challenging, but these tips can ensure you get it right:

• Room Temperature Dough: Let your dough reach room temperature before stretching. This relaxes the gluten and makes it more pliable.
• Use a Combination of Hands and Rolling: Start by pressing down in the center and work your way out, using your palms and fingers. Once expanded, you can use a rolling pin for further stretch.
• Avoid Over-flouring: While you don’t want the dough to stick, too much flour can make it tough. Strike a balance.
• Turn and Rotate: Regularly turn and rotate the dough to ensure even thickness throughout.

Tips for Making a Perfectly Crispy 20 Inch Pizza Crust

The charm of a pizza often lies in its crust. Achieving that perfect crispness is an art:

• Preheat the Oven: Ensure your oven is hot before placing the pizza inside. If using a pizza stone, let it heat up with the oven.
• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality olive oil or butter brushed on the crust edge can make it golden brown and crispy.
• Oven Position: Place your pizza in the lower middle of the oven where heat is most consistent.
• Consider a Pizza Stone: These retain and distribute heat evenly, leading to a more uniformly crispy crust.
• Watch the Baking Time: A larger size means more time in the oven, but be cautious not to overbake. Monitor the crust’s edges and bottom for that golden-brown hue.

Handy Tips to Cut 20 Inch Pizza

Cutting such a large pizza can be daunting, but with the right approach, it’s a breeze:

• Use a Pizza Cutter: A sharp, rolling pizza cutter is more efficient than a knife. It makes clean cuts without dragging the toppings.
• Press, Don’t Drag: Press the cutter firmly and roll across the pizza in one swift motion. Dragging can displace the toppings.
• Safety First: When cutting, ensure your fingers are clear of the cutter’s path. Also, use a cutting board or a stable surface to avoid accidents.
• Divide and Conquer: Start by cutting the pizza into quarters and then divide each quarter for even slices. This method ensures uniformly sized pieces.

The Grand Finale: A Toast to the 20-Inch Pie

Throughout this article, we’ve delved deep into its measurements, marveled at its circumference, and even learned the ins and outs of preserving its delectable charm for days on end. Whether you’re a casual pizza lover or a connoisseur of crusts, it’s hard not to be enamored by this sizeable sensation.

So, the next time you find yourself in the company of a 20-inch pizza, take a moment to appreciate its grandeur. After all, in a world of infinite choices, the universal appeal of a pizza – especially one this grand – remains undeniably timeless.

20-inch Pizza FAQs

What to know the sizes of other pizzas? Check out our other pizza-size articles:

• How Big is a 16 Inch Pizza?
• How Big is a 10 Inch Pizza?
• How Big is a 14 Inch Pizza?
• How Big is a 18 Inch Pizza?
• How Big is a 20 Inch Pizza?

Become a Home Pizzaiolo! 🍕

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