Let’s be real, we’ve all been there. You open the fridge, and that glorious leftover pizza from last night is calling your name. You’re just minutes away from cheesy, saucy satisfaction. But then, the moment of truth. You need to know How To Reheat Pizza In Microwave without turning that perfect crust into a chewy, soggy disappointment. Is it even possible? Absolutely. And as your go-to microwave guru, I’m here to show you the way to perfectly reheated pizza, every single time. Forget everything you thought you knew about nuking leftovers; we’re about to change the game.
Why Does Pizza Get Soggy in the Microwave Anyway?
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Understanding your kitchen appliance is the first step to mastering it. A microwave oven doesn’t heat food with traditional heat; it uses microwaves, a type of electromagnetic radiation, to excite the water molecules in your food.
When you zap a slice of pizza, these microwaves primarily target the water in the sauce and toppings. This water turns into steam. In the enclosed space of the microwave, that steam has nowhere to go but down, right into the pizza’s crust. The result? A steamed, doughy base and rubbery cheese. It’s a tragedy, I know. But the solution is surprisingly simple and lies in controlling that moisture.
The Foolproof Method: How to Reheat Pizza in Microwave
Ready for the secret? It’s not some expensive gadget or complicated technique. It’s a simple glass of water. This method works by giving the microwaves something else to focus on, creating a humid environment that steams the toppings gently while preventing the crust from absorbing all that moisture and turning into a sponge.
Here is the step-by-step guide to pizza reheating nirvana:
- Get Your Setup Ready: Place your slice of pizza on a microwave-safe plate. Don’t you dare think about using a paper plate that could get flimsy and cause a pizza-dropping disaster.
- Introduce the Secret Weapon: Fill a microwave-safe mug or glass about halfway with tap water. Place it in the microwave right next to your plate of pizza.
- Heat in Short Bursts: Microwave on your normal high setting for about 45 to 60 seconds. The exact time will depend on the power of your microwave and the thickness of your slice. It’s always better to start with less time and add more if needed.
- Check and Repeat if Necessary: Carefully check the pizza. The cheese should be melted and the slice should be hot. If it’s not quite there, pop it back in for another 20-30 seconds.
- Let It Rest (Optional but Recommended): For an extra crispy finish, you can carefully transfer the hot slice to a hot skillet on the stove for 30-60 seconds. This will crisp up the bottom beautifully. But even without this step, you’ll be amazed at the difference the glass of water makes.
Safety First: Always use an oven mitt to remove the plate and the glass of water. The water can become extremely hot and may cause serious burns if spilled.
Does My Microwave’s Wattage Matter for Reheating?
Yes, it absolutely does. Wattage is a measure of your microwave’s power. A higher wattage means your food cooks faster. Most modern countertop microwaves range from 900 to 1200 watts. If you have a high-powered microwave (1100W+), you’ll want to use shorter reheating times to avoid overcooking. For a lower-wattage model (700-800W), you might need to add an extra 30 seconds.
Knowing your wattage is key to not just reheating pizza, but mastering all reheating food tasks. It’s usually listed on a sticker inside the door or on the back of the appliance.
The Inverter Technology Game-Changer
If you’re in the market for a new microwave, let me tell you about a feature that’s a true game-changer for reheating: Inverter Technology.
Traditional microwaves simulate lower power levels by cycling their magnetron (the part that creates microwaves) on and off. This can lead to uneven heating—some parts get blasted while others stay cold.
- Traditional Microwave at 50% Power: 100% power for 10 seconds, 0% power for 10 seconds.
- Inverter Microwave at 50% Power: A steady, continuous stream of 50% power.
This consistent, gentle energy is perfect for reheating food like pizza. It heats evenly without creating those dreaded rubbery hotspots or leaving the center ice-cold. It’s a technology I always recommend for anyone who frequently reheats leftovers.
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Our Picks for the Best Microwave Oven in 2025
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| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 0.7 Cu. Ft., 700 Watts with 10 Power Levels, 6 Cooking Presets with One-Touch Express Cook, Eco Mode, Child Safety Lock, & Mute Button - Black |
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| 2 | TOSHIBA EM131A5C-BS Countertop Microwave Ovens 1.2 Cu Ft, 12.4\" Removable Turntable Smart Humidity Sensor 12 Auto Menus Mute Function ECO Mode Easy Clean Interior Black Color 1000W |
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| 3 | Cooks Innovations Non-Stick Oven Protector Mat - Heavy Duty Nonstick Oven Rack Liners to Protect Convection, Electric, Gas, & Microwave Ovens - BPA & PFOA Free Heat Resistant Baking Mat |
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| 4 | Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven 1.1 Cu. Ft. Digital Stainless Steel Microwave 1000 Watts with 6 Auto Menus, 10 Power Levels, Eco Mode, Memory, Mute Function, Child Safety Lock, Easy Clean |
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| 5 | Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave Oven – 700 Watts Power, Auto Cook Settings, Defrost, Easy Clean and Child Safety Lock - Stainless |
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| 6 | TOSHIBA ML-EM09PA(BS) Small Microwave Oven with 6 Auto Menus, Mute Function & Child Lock, LED Lighting, Perfect for Apartment, 0.9 Cu Ft, 10.6 Inch Removable Turntable, 900W, Black Stainless Steel |
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| 7 | Breville BOV450XL Mini Smart Countertop Oven and Toaster Oven, Small, Brushed Stainless Steel |
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| 8 | COMFEE\' EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave Oven with Sound On/Off, ECO Mode and Easy One-Touch Buttons, 0.7cu.ft, 700W, Black |
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| 9 | BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, Stainless Steel, 0.9 Cu Ft |
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| 10 | BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave Oven with Turntable Push-Button Door, Child Safety Lock, 700W, Stainless Steel, 0.7 Cu.ft |
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Beyond the Microwave: Alternative Reheating Methods
As much as I love a good microwave, it’s important to know your options. The best method for you depends on how much time you have and how much you value that “fresh-from-the-oven” crispiness.
- The Skillet/Frying Pan: This is the gold standard for a crispy crust. Place the slice in a non-stick pan over medium-low heat for a couple of minutes until the bottom is crisp. Then, add a few drops of water to the pan (away from the pizza) and cover it with a lid for a minute. The steam will melt the cheese perfectly.
- The Conventional Oven/Toaster Oven: The most reliable way to replicate that just-baked taste. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the pizza on a baking sheet or directly on the rack, and bake for about 8-10 minutes. It takes longer, but the results are fantastic.
- The Air Fryer: A new champion in the reheating world. Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and heat the slice for 3-5 minutes. It delivers a super crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese in record time.
So, while learning how to reheat pizza in microwave is an essential life skill for quick results, these other methods are great to have in your culinary toolkit.
Microwave Safety 101: What Should Never Go Inside
Your microwave is a powerful kitchen appliance, but it’s not invincible. Putting the wrong thing inside can damage the unit, cause a fire, or even release harmful chemicals. As the Microwave King, it’s my duty to give you the “never-ever” list.
The Absolute No-Go List
- Metal: This includes aluminum foil, metal-trimmed plates, and silverware. Metal reflects microwaves, which can cause sparks (a phenomenon called arcing) and damage your oven’s magnetron.
- Whole Eggs in Shells: The steam will build up inside the shell with no way to escape, causing the egg to explode. It’s a messy and dangerous situation.
- Styrofoam Containers: Most styrofoam containers are not microwave-safe. They can melt and release harmful chemicals into your food.
- Brown Paper Bags: They can catch fire. They also may contain inks and glues that release toxic fumes when heated.
- Travel Mugs: Many stainless steel travel mugs are not microwave-safe. Check the bottom for a “microwave safe” label. If you’re unsure, don’t risk it.
As John Miller, an appliance technician with over 15 years of experience, often says, “The most common service calls I get are for damaged magnetrons from arcing. Ninety percent of the time, it could have been prevented by simply not putting metal in the microwave. When in doubt, leave it out.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I reheat pizza in the cardboard box it came in?
A: No, you should not. The cardboard can be a fire hazard, and many boxes have waxes, glues, or inks that can release fumes when heated. Always transfer your pizza to a microwave-safe plate.
Q: How long does it take to reheat pizza in the microwave?
A: It typically takes 45 to 60 seconds per slice on high power, using the glass of water method. However, this varies based on your microwave’s wattage and the thickness of the pizza.
Q: Is it better to use a lower power setting?
A: Using a lower power setting (around 50-70%) can help heat the pizza more evenly, especially if you have a non-inverter microwave. It will take longer, but it can reduce the risk of creating rubbery cheese or super-hot edges with a cold center.
Q: Can I reheat multiple slices at once?
A: You can, but it’s not ideal. The slices will heat unevenly. For best results, reheat one or two slices at a time, arranging them on the plate so they don’t overlap. You’ll also need to increase the heating time.
Q: Does the paper towel trick work for reheating pizza?
A: Placing a slightly damp paper towel over the pizza can help steam the toppings, but it doesn’t do much to prevent the crust from getting soggy. The glass of water method is superior because it creates a humid environment without directly steaming the crust itself.
The Final Slice
There you have it. The secret to how to reheat pizza in microwave isn’t a secret at all—it’s just a little bit of science. By adding a simple glass of water, you can redirect the microwave’s energy, control the steam, and rescue your leftovers from a soggy fate. Understanding the power of your appliance, from its wattage to advanced features like Inverter Technology, empowers you to be the true king or queen of your kitchen. So go forth and reheat with confidence, knowing that a perfect slice of leftover pizza is always within reach.