6 Best Microwave Cookers in 2025
Tired of spending hours in the kitchen? Craving a quick and easy way to heat up leftovers or whip up a tasty meal in a flash? Look no further! Microwaves have become kitchen staples, revolutionizing the way we cook. But with so many models on the market, choosing the best one can feel overwhelming. Fear not, fellow food enthusiasts! We’ve done the research and compiled a list of the top 6 best microwave cooker products that will elevate your culinary game. Get ready to discover the perfect microwave to simplify your life and tantalize your taste buds.
6. Fasta Pasta Microwave Cooker with Strainer
The Original Fasta Pasta Microwave Cooker is a product that promises to revolutionize the way you cook pasta. It boasts a patented design that claims to cook pasta perfectly al dente every time, all without the need for a boiling pot of water. While the concept is undeniably appealing, my experience with this product revealed some nuances that potential buyers should consider.
The Fasta Pasta does indeed live up to its name in terms of speed. Forget waiting for a pot of water to boil—simply add your pasta and water to the cooker, close the lid, and microwave. The built-in strainer makes draining a breeze. I found that the pasta cooked relatively evenly, and there was no sticking to the sides of the cooker. The al dente claim is also mostly accurate, though achieving perfect texture might require a bit of experimentation depending on your preferred level of doneness.
However, there are some drawbacks to keep in mind. Firstly, the cooker has a relatively small capacity. While it’s perfect for single servings or small families, it’s not ideal for larger portions. Secondly, the design can be a bit awkward to clean. The built-in strainer, while convenient, makes washing the nooks and crannies a bit more challenging. Finally, the plastic construction might not feel as durable as a traditional pot.
Overall, The Original Fasta Pasta Microwave Cooker is a decent option for those who value speed and convenience. It’s a great choice for quick weeknight meals or when you’re short on time. While it doesn’t quite replace the traditional pasta experience entirely, its simple design and ease of use make it a viable alternative. Just be aware of its limitations in terms of capacity and cleaning.
5. Sistema Microwave Rice Cooker and Steamer
This Sistema Microwave Rice Cooker and Steamer Bowl set is a decent option for those looking to simplify their cooking process, especially when it comes to rice and steaming vegetables. The 2.6L rice cooker boasts a pressure chamber plate that aims to keep your rice perfectly moist and fluffy. It’s a straightforward process – add rice and water, snap the easy-locking clips shut, and microwave. The accompanying round container with a steam release vent is handy for steaming vegetables or reheating leftovers without the mess of splatters.
While the rice cooker does a decent job of producing fluffy rice, I did notice that it tends to overcook slightly if you’re not careful with the cooking time. It requires a bit of trial and error to get the perfect consistency. The steam release vent on the round container works well, but the overall capacity of the set might be a bit limiting for larger households or if you frequently cook large portions of rice.
The lids on both containers feature easy-lift tabs, making it convenient to transfer food from the microwave to your plate. The material is sturdy and dishwasher-safe, which is a bonus for easy cleanup. However, I found that the red color, while vibrant, tends to show stains more easily than other colors.
Overall, this Sistema set offers a convenient solution for basic rice cooking and steaming. The ease of use and dishwasher-safe features are definitely appealing. However, the limited capacity and potential for overcooked rice might be drawbacks for some users. For the price, it’s a decent option, but there are other microwave rice cooker sets on the market that might offer more features and better value for money.
4. Joseph Joseph M-Cuisine Rice Cooker Steamer 2 Liter
The Joseph Joseph M-Cuisine Microwave Rice Cooker Steamer is a convenient all-in-one solution for cooking perfect rice and grains in the microwave. This 2-liter set includes a cooking pot, colander, measuring cup, and a multi-purpose rice paddle. The paddle is particularly clever – it not only locks the pot lid in place while providing convenient carrying handles, but it also doubles as a spoon for fluffing and serving the cooked rice. This compact design makes storing the entire set a breeze.
I found the rice cooker to be quite user-friendly. Simply add the desired amount of rice and water according to the measuring cup, secure the lid with the paddle, and microwave! The rice consistently came out fluffy and cooked evenly. The colander is handy for rinsing the rice before cooking. However, the 2-liter capacity may be a bit small for larger households.
While the rice paddle is a great multi-functional tool, I noticed it didn’t always sit securely when locking the lid, especially when the pot was full. This occasionally led to a slight gap, allowing steam to escape. Additionally, the plastic construction of the paddle felt a bit flimsy and I was worried about it potentially warping with frequent use.
Overall, the Joseph Joseph M-Cuisine Microwave Rice Cooker Steamer is a decent option for individuals or small families who are looking for a convenient way to cook rice and grains. The integrated paddle is a thoughtful design feature, and the dishwasher-safe components make cleaning a cinch. However, the limited capacity and somewhat fragile paddle might be drawbacks for some users.
3. Stoneware Wave Microwave Cooker
Tired of eating out and longing for quick, homemade meals? The Stoneware Wave Microwave Cooker promises just that, claiming you can whip up an omelet in minutes or even a “pie” in just three. While the concept is appealing, the reality is a bit more nuanced.
This ceramic bowl, with a 4.5-inch diameter and 3.5-inch height, boasts a 12-ounce capacity, which makes it suitable for individual servings. The domed lid, designed to circulate heat, and the chimney-like vent for steam release, are features that aim to ensure even cooking. However, my experience found that the “wave” design doesn’t always translate to perfectly even heating. Some areas of my dishes were hotter than others, requiring me to adjust cooking times to ensure everything cooked thoroughly.
The hollow handle, which stays cool even after extended microwave use, is a definite plus. It’s a thoughtful design element that prevents burns during handling. However, the bowl itself can get quite hot, requiring oven mitts for safe removal. It’s important to note that this cooker is explicitly designed for microwave use only, so forget about using it on the stovetop or in the oven.
While the Stoneware Wave Microwave Cooker offers the convenience of quick cooking, its performance isn’t always consistent. The uneven heating can be a drawback, and the limited capacity might not be ideal for larger meals. At its price point, there are other microwave-safe containers that offer comparable features and potentially better performance.
2. Microwave Rice Cooker 2L Steamer with Strainer
This Microwave Rice Cooker is a game-changer for anyone who loves quick and easy meals. The 2L capacity is perfect for families, and I’ve easily steamed enough rice for four people in it. I love that it’s made from food-grade PP material – it feels sturdy and doesn’t retain any odors or flavors. The rice cooker is also dishwasher safe, which is a huge bonus for busy weeknights.
One of my favorite features is the included rice spoon, which doubles as a handle for the lid. It locks securely in place, creating an airtight seal that helps the rice cook evenly. The steamer pot itself is spacious and allows for plenty of room to steam vegetables alongside the rice. I’ve even used it to cook pasta – simply add water, cover, and microwave!
The instructions are incredibly easy to follow, and the whole process takes less than 20 minutes. I simply rinse the rice, place it in the filter, add water to the steamer pot, and microwave. It’s so simple and convenient compared to using a stovetop rice cooker.
While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of some larger rice cookers, this Microwave Rice Cooker delivers on its promise of quick, easy, and delicious meals at an affordable price. If you’re looking for a simple and reliable way to cook perfect rice every time, this is definitely worth considering.
1. GoodCook Everyday Microwave Steamer, Adjustable Vent
The GoodCook Everyday Microwave Steamer has quickly become my go-to for quick, healthy meals. This steamer is a game-changer for anyone looking to steam vegetables and fish without the hassle of a stovetop. It’s incredibly easy to use: simply add water to the bottom tray, place your chosen veggies or fish on the steam tray, cover with the lid, and microwave. The clear lid allows you to peek in and check on your food without letting out precious steam.
One of the things I love most about this steamer is its ability to preserve nutrients. Steaming is a much healthier cooking method than boiling, and this steamer does a fantastic job of locking in those vitamins and minerals. My vegetables come out bright, flavorful, and retaining their natural texture. I’ve also found it to be perfect for steaming fish, resulting in perfectly cooked and flaky fillets every time.
The adjustable steam vent is a brilliant feature. You can easily control the amount of steam escaping, preventing the container from sealing shut and ensuring safe and even cooking. This steamer is also incredibly versatile. It’s dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup a breeze. The compact design (8″ x 12″ x 2.7″) means it doesn’t take up much space in my kitchen cabinets.
While the GoodCook Everyday Microwave Steamer is a fantastic product, the only minor drawback I’ve noticed is that it can be a bit small for large families. However, for individual servings or smaller meals, it’s perfect. Overall, I highly recommend this steamer for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and convenient way to cook their favorite vegetables and fish. It’s a valuable addition to any kitchen and has become a staple in my own cooking routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What features should I look for in a good microwave cooker?
A: When choosing a microwave, consider these features:
- Power: Measured in watts, higher wattage generally means faster cooking. 1000 watts is a good standard for most households.
- Size: Choose a size that fits your needs and countertop space. Consider the size of the dishes you typically cook.
- Preset cooking programs: Many microwaves offer pre-programmed settings for common foods like popcorn, vegetables, and frozen meals, simplifying cooking.
- Sensor cooking: This feature automatically adjusts cooking time based on the moisture content of food, ensuring even cooking and preventing overcooking.
- Interior design: Look for a turntable or wave-guide design that distributes heat evenly and a durable, easy-to-clean interior.
Q: Are there different types of microwaves available?
A: Yes, there are a few types:
- Over-the-range: These are built above the stovetop and often include ventilation features.
- Countertop: These are freestanding units that come in various sizes and features.
- Drawer microwaves: These slide out like a drawer, offering a unique and space-saving solution.
Q: How do I clean a microwave cooker?
A:
- Unplug the microwave before cleaning.
- Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
- For stubborn stains, microwave a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes to loosen grime. Then, wipe clean.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can damage the microwave’s surface.
- Clean the exterior with a damp cloth and mild cleaner.
Conclusion
Choosing the right microwave cooker can revolutionize your cooking. From quick reheats to full meals, these appliances offer convenience and efficiency. Whether you prioritize power, features, or affordability, our curated list provides a starting point for your search. Invest in a quality microwave cooker and discover a world of culinary possibilities at your fingertips.