4 Best Microwave Steamers in 2025
Love the convenience of microwaving but want to enjoy healthier, steam-cooked meals? You’re in luck! Microwave steamers are a fantastic way to cook vegetables, fish, and even dumplings without adding any extra fat or hassle. But with so many options out there, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in! We’ve done the research and tested out the top contenders to bring you our pick of the best microwave steamer products. Get ready to discover your new kitchen essential and unlock a world of quick, healthy, and delicious meals.
4. Progressive International Mini Microwave Steamer
The Progressive International Mini Microwave Steamer, while a solid contender for quick and easy steaming, doesn’t quite reach the top spot. Its 3-cup capacity makes it perfect for single servings, which is a definite plus for those living alone or looking for a healthy lunch option. I found it particularly handy for steaming frozen veggies – they were tender and ready to go in a matter of minutes.
The non-stick surface is a welcome feature, as it makes cleanup a breeze. One thing I appreciated is that the steamer basket doubles as a colander, which is a clever space-saving design. While it’s dishwasher safe, I found handwashing it to be quicker and more convenient.
However, the small size does pose a limitation. If you’re cooking for a family or enjoy larger portions, this steamer will be insufficient. Additionally, the high-heat polypropylene construction, while durable and BPA-free, doesn’t offer the same heat distribution as some metal steamers. This can sometimes result in unevenly cooked vegetables, with some parts being slightly overcooked while others remain crunchy.
Overall, the Progressive International Mini Microwave Steamer is a decent option for those seeking a fast and convenient way to steam single servings. Its compact size and ease of use are appealing, but its limited capacity and somewhat uneven heat distribution might not be suitable for everyone. While it’s a good value for the price, especially considering its versatility, users with larger families or those who prioritize perfectly cooked vegetables might want to consider a larger or differently constructed steamer.
3. GoodCook Everyday Microwave Steamer, Adjustable Vent
The GoodCook Everyday Microwave Steamer is a decent option for quickly preparing vegetables and fish in the microwave. While it’s not the most groundbreaking steamer on the market, it does offer some convenience and portability. The adjustable steam vent is a nice touch, allowing you to control the amount of steam released and prevent the container from sealing shut during cooking. This feature is particularly helpful for delicate fish, as it helps to prevent overcooking.
I found the steamer to be fairly easy to use. Simply fill the bottom tray with water, place the steam tray on top with your chosen ingredients, cover with the lid, and microwave. The clear lid allows you to check on your food periodically without letting out too much steam. However, I did notice that the steamer doesn’t distribute heat evenly, which can result in some vegetables being overcooked while others remain slightly undercooked.
While the steamer does a decent job of preserving the nutrients in vegetables, I wouldn’t say it’s superior to other steaming methods. The steamer’s small size (8″ x 12″ x 2.7″) limits the amount of food you can cook at once, which might not be ideal for larger families or meal prepping. Additionally, the plastic construction doesn’t feel as sturdy as some metal steamers, and I wouldn’t recommend using it for anything other than steaming vegetables and fish.
Overall, the GoodCook Everyday Microwave Steamer is a decent value for the price. It’s a convenient option for quickly steaming small portions of food, but it’s not the most versatile or high-performing steamer available. If you’re looking for a dedicated steamer that can handle larger quantities of food or offer more precise temperature control, you might want to consider investing in a higher-end model.
2. Professional Micro Cookware 2 Quart Steamer
This 2-quart microwave steamer boasts a sleek design and promises a healthier way to cook your meals. Constructed from high-quality, BPA-free materials, it’s dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. The 2-quart capacity, equivalent to 8 cups or 2 liters, is decent for smaller families or individual servings. It’s marketed as ideal for steaming vegetables, poaching chicken, reheating soup, cooking rice, and preparing side dishes in just minutes.
The steamer’s locking lid design certainly earns points for practicality. It effectively prevents spills even when filled with liquid, and the grooved handle makes it easy to secure. The lid also features small and medium holes that allow for proper steam circulation. This helps ensure that your food cooks evenly and retains its moisture, though it does mean you need to be careful when draining the liquid, as it can be quite hot.
While the steamer’s design is commendable, the lack of a steam basket is a noticeable drawback. You have to add water directly to the bottom of the bowl, which can make it a bit messy. Also, the holes in the lid, while necessary for steam circulation, can also lead to a bit of splattering. This is something to keep in mind if you’re not a fan of cleaning up cooking residue.
Overall, this microwave steamer offers a convenient and fairly efficient way to cook healthy meals. Its large capacity and locking lid are definite advantages, but the lack of a steam basket and potential for splattering might be a deterrent for some. For its price point, it offers decent value, but there are similar steamers on the market with more features and perhaps a cleaner cooking experience.
1. Sistema Microwave Steamer with Steam Release Vent
This Sistema Microwave Steamer is a fantastic tool for anyone looking to cook healthy and delicious meals quickly and easily. The steamer is designed to perfectly cook vegetables, fish, and poultry using the power of steam. I found it particularly great for steaming broccoli, green beans, and even chicken breasts. The food always came out tender and flavorful, retaining its nutrients without the need for added fats or oils.
One of the things I loved most about this steamer is the steam release vent on the lid. It truly does prevent any splattering, which is a huge bonus when cooking in the microwave. The lid stays securely in place during cooking, and the cool-to-the-touch, easy-lift tabs make it simple to open and remove the lid safely after the steaming process is complete. I also appreciate that the middle stalk of the steamer basket stays cool, allowing you to easily lift out your cooked food without burning your fingers.
The steamer is made from 100% virgin plastic, which is both durable and BPA-free. I’ve used it several times now, and it shows no signs of wear and tear. It’s also dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. The only minor drawback I noticed is that the steamer basket doesn’t hold an enormous amount of food. It’s perfect for individual servings or small families, but if you’re cooking for a larger crowd, you may need to steam in batches.
Overall, I’m incredibly impressed with the Sistema Microwave Steamer. It’s a high-quality, user-friendly product that makes healthy cooking a snap. The steam release vent, cool-touch handles, and BPA-free construction make it a winner in my book. For the price, it’s an excellent value and a must-have for anyone who wants to enjoy delicious and nutritious meals without the hassle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the benefits of using a microwave steamer?
A: Microwave steamers offer several benefits, including:
- Fast and convenient: Steam vegetables in minutes, saving you time on meal preparation.
- Nutrient retention: Steaming helps preserve vitamins and minerals in your food, as it uses minimal water and avoids high heat that can cause nutrient loss.
- Healthy cooking: Steaming is a low-calorie and fat-free cooking method.
- Easy cleanup: Most microwave steamers are dishwasher-safe or have removable parts for easy cleaning.
Q: What features should I look for in a microwave steamer?
A: Consider these features when choosing a microwave steamer:
- Capacity: Select a steamer with a size that accommodates your needs.
- Materials: Look for steamers made from durable, BPA-free materials like stainless steel or silicone.
- Versatility: Some steamers come with multiple tiers or attachments for steaming different types of food.
- Ease of use: Choose a steamer with a simple design and easy-to-follow instructions.
Q: How do I clean a microwave steamer?
A: Most microwave steamers are dishwasher-safe. However, if hand-washing, simply rinse the steamer with warm soapy water and allow it to air dry. For stubborn stains, use a baking soda paste to scrub gently.
Conclusion
Choosing the right microwave steamer can elevate your healthy meal prep game. From compact models for single servings to larger units for families, the options cater to diverse needs. Consider your cooking frequency, desired capacity, and budget when making your decision. With a reliable steamer, you can enjoy delicious, nutritious meals in minutes, making healthy eating convenient and enjoyable.
