Top-Rated Microwaves for Reheating Pizza: An Actionable Guide

Reheating pizza in a microwave can be a quick and easy solution to enjoy leftovers, but it often leads to soggy crusts or unevenly heated toppings. Thankfully, with the right microwave, you can achieve a pizza that tastes almost as good as when it was first baked. This guide explores the best microwaves for reheating pizza, how to choose the right one, and practical tips to ensure your reheated pizza retains its crispness and flavor.

Why Reheat Pizza in a Microwave?

While many people may prefer to reheat pizza in an oven or on a stovetop to preserve its texture, the microwave remains a popular and convenient option. Here are a few reasons why you might choose a microwave for reheating pizza:

• Speed : Microwaves reheat pizza in a fraction of the time compared to an oven.
• Convenience : For those without access to an oven, or who want to quickly enjoy pizza, a microwave is an easy option.
• Minimal Cleanup : Reheating pizza in a microwave means less mess, as you don't need to use extra pots, pans, or baking sheets.

While a microwave might not provide the same crispy results as an oven, certain models are specifically designed to improve reheating quality. The addition of features like convection cooking, inverter technology, and specialized pizza settings can significantly enhance the outcome.

Types of Microwaves for Reheating Pizza

1. Solo Microwave Ovens

• Description : The most basic type of microwave, which uses microwave radiation to heat food.
• Pros: Affordable, compact, and simple to use.
• Cons: Lacks the advanced features needed to evenly reheat pizza without making it soggy.

Solo microwaves can reheat pizza, but they might not do it as effectively as other models. The pizza may end up with a softer, chewier crust. If you're just reheating pizza quickly and don't mind a less-than-perfect result, solo microwaves can still get the job done.

2. Grill Microwave Ovens

• Description : These microwaves include a grill element, allowing you to not only microwave but also grill food.
• Pros: Ideal for browning and crisping, making them better suited for pizza reheating.
• Cons : Slightly more expensive than solo models, and may require additional space.

Grill microwaves use direct heat from a grill feature, helping to restore some of the crispiness to the pizza crust while reheating. While not as powerful as convection models, these microwaves provide a balance of convenience and better results for reheating pizza.

3. Convection Microwave Ovens

• Description : These microwaves combine standard microwave radiation with convection heat for a more even cooking experience.
• Pros: Best for even heating, preserving texture, and crisping up the crust.
• Cons: Higher price point and a larger physical size.

Convection microwaves are the top choice for reheating pizza, as they allow for both microwave and convection cooking, giving you the best of both worlds. The added convection feature helps crisp up the crust, giving it a texture closer to that of freshly baked pizza.

Key Features to Look for in a Microwave for Reheating Pizza

1. Pizza Reheat Mode

• Some microwaves come with a specific "pizza reheat setting" that optimizes the heating cycle for pizza. This feature usually adjusts the time, temperature, and power settings to ensure that the pizza is heated evenly without becoming soggy.

2. Convection Heating

• A convection microwave provides dry heat circulation, which can help crisp the crust while microwaving the toppings. This is essential for maintaining the pizza's original texture.

3. Inverter Technology

• Microwaves with inverter technology provide consistent, even heat by delivering microwave power continuously, rather than in pulses. This ensures that pizza is reheated evenly, avoiding hot spots or cold spots.

4. Turntable or Rotating Ring

• A turntable is a rotating platform inside the microwave that ensures that food is evenly heated from all sides. When reheating pizza, a rotating ring helps prevent uneven heating.

5. Power Levels

• Microwaves with adjustable power levels allow you to control the intensity of the heat. Reheating pizza at a lower power level can prevent overheating and ensure the crust doesn't become too chewy.

6. Size and Capacity

• The size of the microwave is important, especially if you're reheating large pizzas or multiple slices at once. A microwave with a spacious interior will be able to accommodate larger pizza boxes or pizza pans, allowing you to reheat your pizza without cutting it into smaller pieces.

Top-Rated Microwaves for Reheating Pizza

1. Panasonic NN-SN966S Countertop Microwave Oven

Overview

Panasonic's NN-SN966S combines high wattage with inverter technology to deliver consistent, even cooking, making it an excellent choice for reheating pizza.

Features

• 1250W power output for quick and even reheating.
• Inverter technology for even cooking and better texture.
• 2.2 cubic feet capacity for larger pizzas.
• Sensor cooking that adjusts time and power for optimal results.
• Pre-programmed pizza and reheat settings.

Why It's Ideal for Reheating Pizza

This microwave's inverter technology ensures that pizza is heated thoroughly without overcooking. The pizza reheat setting and large interior make it versatile for various sizes of pizza, while the sensor cooking feature helps prevent the pizza from becoming rubbery or soggy.

2. Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave, Convection Oven & Grill

Overview

Breville's Combi Wave offers the combined benefits of microwave, convection oven, and grill, which makes it perfect for not only reheating pizza but also crisping it up.

Features

• 1000W microwave power.
• Convection oven with a 25L capacity.
• Grill function for crisping and browning.
• Smart modes for various foods, including pizza.
• Large capacity for reheating multiple pizza slices or a whole pie.

Why It's Ideal for Reheating Pizza

The grill and convection options make this model stand out for pizza. The combination of microwave and grill helps achieve the perfect balance of heat for the crust and toppings, ensuring the pizza doesn't lose its crispiness.

3. Sharp R-21LCFS Medium-Duty Microwave Oven

Overview

Sharp's R-21LCFS is a solid choice for those who want a no-nonsense microwave with a simple design and reliable performance for reheating pizza.

Features

• 1000W power output.
• 1.5 cubic feet capacity, accommodating larger pizza boxes.
• Single-stage cooking and easy-to-use controls.
• Durable stainless steel exterior for easy cleaning.

Why It's Ideal for Reheating Pizza

While it doesn't have advanced features like convection or grilling, the Sharp R-21LCFS is a reliable, straightforward microwave that heats pizza quickly and evenly. Its large capacity allows it to fit a standard pizza box, making it ideal for reheating a whole pizza.

4. Samsung MG14H3020CM Countertop Microwave Oven

Overview

Samsung's countertop microwave offers microwave and convection capabilities, allowing for more precise control over your reheating process.

Features

• 1000W microwave with convection cooking up to 230°C.
• 1.4 cubic feet capacity.
• Convection fan for even heat distribution.
• Crisp function to achieve a crispy crust.
• Easy-to-clean ceramic enamel interior.

Why It's Ideal for Reheating Pizza

This model combines convection and microwave cooking to provide even heating while crisping up the crust. It's particularly useful for those who want a crispy, well-heated pizza with minimal effort.

Practical Tips for Reheating Pizza in a Microwave

1. Use a Microwave-Safe Pizza Plate

• To help achieve a crispy crust, consider placing your pizza on a microwave-safe pizza stone or ceramic plate. Some microwaves come with a pizza tray that helps enhance the crispiness.

2. Reheat on Low Power

• To avoid overheating the toppings and turning the crust too chewy, reheat the pizza on low power (50-60% power) for a few minutes. This ensures the heat is distributed evenly without damaging the texture.

3. Cover with a Damp Paper Towel

• Placing a damp paper towel over the pizza while microwaving helps to prevent the pizza from becoming too dry. It also ensures the toppings stay moist.

4. Check for Doneness Regularly

• Unlike ovens, microwaves cook quickly. Check your pizza every 30 seconds to ensure it's heated to your liking and avoid overcooking.

5. Use the Right Size Microwave

• If you frequently reheat pizza, investing in a microwave with a larger capacity will allow you to fit an entire pizza without cutting it into slices.

Conclusion

Reheating pizza in a microwave doesn't have to lead to soggy, disappointing results. With the right microwave, you can bring your leftover pizza back to life, preserving its flavor and texture. Microwaves with convection cooking, inverter technology, and specialized pizza settings provide the best results. By following the tips in this guide and selecting a top-rated microwave, you can ensure that every slice of reheated pizza is as enjoyable as the first.