Cooking frozen pizza in the microwave can be a convenient and quick option for those short on time or without access to an oven. It is a simple process that can yield delicious results, saving you both time and energy. In this article, we will walk you through the steps for perfectly microwaved frozen pizza, so you can enjoy a tasty meal without much hassle.
To get the best outcome when microwaving frozen pizza, it is essential to be aware of the right techniques and some key tips. There are different types of microwaves, and some frozen pizzas are designed specifically for microwave cooking. To achieve optimal crispiness and texture alongside even heating, proper preparation and settings are crucial. Let’s dive into the steps and tips for creating that perfectly microwaved frozen pizza meal.
By understanding your microwave’s capabilities and adjusting the cooking process accordingly, you can…
Choosing the Right Frozen Pizza
When it comes to cooking frozen pizza in the microwave, one of the most important aspects to consider is the type of pizza you choose. We will discuss the different types of crust, toppings, and flavors to help you make the best decision for your microwave pizza experience.
Type of Crust
When selecting a crust for your frozen pizza, you have several options:
Thin Crust: Typically cooks more evenly and quickly in a microwave; ideal for crispier texture.
Thick Crust: Can become soggy if not prepared properly, but some people prefer the heartier texture; might require longer cooking time or a microwave crisper tray for better results.
It’s generally recommended to choose a thin crust pizza for the microwave, but if you’re a fan of thick crust, just be aware of the potential challenges.
Toppings and Flavors
While personal preferences play a significant role in choosing toppings and flavors, there are some combinations that typically fare better when microwaved. Here are a few essential tips:
Meats: Avoid topping-heavy options like meat lovers; stick to 1-2 meat toppings for more even cooking.
Vegetables: Fresh vegetable toppings can release moisture and make the crust soggy; opt for pizzas with fewer or pre-cooked vegetables.
Cheese: Moderately cheesy pizzas cook well in the microwave; too much cheese can become greasy or overly melted.
Some popular topping combinations that are suitable for microwaving include:
Margherita (tomato, basil, mozzarella)
Pepperoni and mushroom
Barbecue chicken
Remember to experiment with different crusts, toppings, and flavors to find your perfect microwaveable frozen pizza.
Preparing the Microwave
Cleaning the Turntable
Before you start cooking your frozen pizza in the microwave, it’s essential to have a clean environment. Begin by removing the turntable from the microwave and wiping it down with a damp cloth or sponge. If necessary, use a mild detergent to remove any food residue or stains. Once cleaned, ensure that the turntable is completely dry before placing it back into the microwave. A clean turntable ensures even heating and prevents any unwanted flavors or smells from affecting your pizza.
Using Microwave-Safe Plates
When microwaving a frozen pizza, it’s crucial to use a microwave-safe plate to ensure both safety and optimal cooking. Here are some materials that are typically microwave-safe:
Ceramic
Glass
Porcelain
Some plastics (check for a microwave-safe symbol)
Avoid using plates made from the following materials, as they can be unsafe or ineffective in a microwave:
Metal
Paper
Styrofoam
Lastly, it is essential to arrange the pizza on the plate in a way that allows for even cooking. Make sure to leave enough space around the pizza for proper heat distribution.
Cooking the Pizza
Defrosting the Pizza
Before cooking your frozen pizza in the microwave, it is important to defrost it properly to ensure even cooking. Place the pizza on a microwave-safe plate or container and use the defrost setting on your microwave. The defrosting time may vary based on the size and thickness of the pizza. Follow the instructions on the packaging, or as a general guideline, defrost the pizza for 5-7 minutes. Check to make sure it’s defrosted but not cooked before proceeding to the next step.
Setting the Timer
Once your pizza is defrosted, it’s time to cook it. To achieve the best results, follow the instructions on the pizza packaging, as different brands may require varying cook times. If the packaging does not provide microwave instructions, set the timer according to the thickness and size of the pizza. A small, thin pizza may require 3-4 minutes, while a larger, thicker pizza may take 6-8 minutes. Use 50% power or the pizza setting on your microwave, if available.
Checking the Pizza
As the pizza cooks, be sure to keep an eye on it. Check the pizza at least once by pressing the center gently with a fork or your finger to monitor the progress. The pizza should be hot and the cheese should be fully melted before it’s ready to eat. If necessary, add one-minute increments to the cooking time until the desired doneness is achieved. Remember that microwaving times may vary depending on the microwave wattage and the thickness of the pizza. Once the pizza is cooked to your liking, carefully remove it from the microwave as it may be very hot.
Adding Additional Toppings
Pre-Cooking Toppings
Before you start microwaving your frozen pizza, you might want to add some extra toppings to make it even more delicious. Some toppings, like vegetables or raw meats, need to be pre-cooked to ensure they are fully cooked when your pizza comes out of the microwave.
Prep your ingredients: Wash and chop your preferred toppings, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or sausage.
Pre-cook ingredients: If you’re using raw meat toppings, like sausage or bacon, cook them in a skillet until they’re about halfway cooked. For vegetables, you can sauté them in a pan for a few minutes until they start to soften.
Adding During Cooking
Once your toppings are pre-cooked and ready, follow these steps to add them to your frozen pizza during the microwaving process.
Partially cook pizza: Remove your frozen pizza from its packaging and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave the pizza for about half of the recommended cooking time on the package.
Add toppings: Carefully remove the plate from the microwave, and evenly distribute your pre-cooked toppings on top of the partially cooked pizza.
Continue cooking: Return the pizza to the microwave, and cook for the remaining time indicated on the package, or until the pizza crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
By adding extra toppings to your frozen pizza and microwaving it using this method, you can ensure that everything is cooked to perfection and enjoy a delicious, customized meal.
Serving and Enjoying the Pizza
Cutting the Pizza
Once your frozen pizza is cooked in the microwave, carefully remove it with the help of oven mitts. Place the pizza on a cutting board. Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, divide the pizza into equal portions by cutting it into triangles or squares, depending on your preference. If the cheese or toppings are sticking to the cutter, try dipping the cutter in some warm water to help with a smoother cut.
Proper Cooling Time
Allow your microwaved pizza to cool for about 1-2 minutes before serving. This is important because it lets the cheese and toppings set properly on the crust. Additionally, it protects you and your guests from burning mouths due to extremely hot melted cheese. After the brief cooling period, transfer the pizza slices onto individual plates and serve immediately.
While enjoying your microwaved frozen pizza, you can enhance its flavors with some optional add-ons:
A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or dried oregano
A drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze
A side of ranch or marinara sauce for dipping
Remember to be mindful of the cooking time and power settings when microwaving your frozen pizza, as this can prevent overcooking or soggy crusts. By following these serving suggestions, you can have a delicious, quick meal right from the convenience of your microwave.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
