How to Sharpen a Pizza Cutter (And Keep It Like New)

Ever cut into a pizza only to struggle with a dull, snagging cutter? When your go-to slicer can’t glide through crispy crust and gooey cheese, it’s time for a quick sharpening. A well-maintained pizza cutter makes weeknight dinners, movie nights, and family gatherings run more smoothly—literally!

Why a Sharp Pizza Cutter Matters

• Cleaner Slices: A sharper wheel slices through toppings neatly, leaving each slice intact and mess-free.
• Less Effort: You won’t have to press down hard or saw back and forth, reducing strain on your wrist.
• Better Food Presentation: Pizza, flatbreads, and quesadillas look more appetizing when they’re cleanly cut.

3 Simple Steps to Sharpen Your Pizza Cutter

1. Gather the Right Tools

• Sharpening Stone or Honing Rod: A small, fine-grit stone works well for a pizza cutter wheel.
• Protective Gear: Gloves can help reduce the risk of cuts while you work.
• Dish Soap and Water: You’ll need to clean the wheel before and after sharpening to remove any metal filings.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have a specialized sharpening tool, you can use a ceramic mug with an unglazed bottom for a quick fix—just like you would a knife.

2. Disassemble the Cutter (If Possible)

1. Check the Screw: Many pizza cutters have a small screw that holds the wheel in place. Loosen it to remove the wheel.
2. Keep Parts Organized: Set aside the handle, screw, and any washers so you don’t lose anything.
3. Clean Thoroughly: Remove any dried-on cheese or sauce to ensure you have a smooth surface to sharpen.

Pro Tip: If your pizza cutter is a single-piece design, you can still sharpen it; just be careful and tilt the wheel as you work around the edge.

3. Sharpen and Reassemble

1. Angle the Wheel on the Stone: Hold the pizza cutter wheel at a slight angle (about 20 degrees) against the sharpening stone, rotating in small, circular motions.
2. Work Both Sides: Flip the wheel over and repeat the same motion to maintain an even, sharp edge.
3. Rinse and Dry: After sharpening, rinse off any metal filings, dry the wheel completely, and reattach it to the handle.

Pro Tip: A light coat of food-grade oil along the edge can help prevent rust and keep your cutter rolling smoothly.

Final Thoughts on Maintaining Your Pizza Cutter

By sharpening your pizza cutter at home and cleaning it regularly, you’ll always have crisp slices and effortless cutting—perfect for everything from family pizza nights to homemade flatbreads. With a few basic tools and a little know-how, you can keep your cutter gliding through even the cheesiest pies for years to come.