How to Cook Rice in Microwave

Can You Cook Rice in the Microwave?

Absolutely — and it's easier than most people think. Microwave rice takes about 15–18 minutes total with almost no active effort. No watching the pot, no adjusting the flame. Just measure, add water, cover, and let the microwave do the work.

Basic Microwave Rice: Step by Step

Ingredients (2 servings)

• 1 cup dry white rice
• 2 cups water
• A pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon butter or oil (optional)

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. This removes excess surface starch that causes clumping and gumminess. Not strictly required, but recommended for fluffier results.

Step 2: Combine Rice and Water in a Large Microwave-Safe Bowl

Use a bowl at least 3–4 times the volume of the dry rice — rice expands significantly and the water bubbles vigorously. A tight-fitting lid or vented cover is essential.

👉 We recommend: M MCIRCO 10-Pack 22 Oz Glass Meal Prep Containers with Lids

Step 3: Microwave on Full Power for 5 Minutes

Microwave uncovered (or loosely covered) on full power for 5 minutes. This brings the water to a boil quickly.

Step 4: Reduce to 50% Power for 15 Minutes

Reduce power to 50% and microwave for 15 minutes. This gentler heat allows the rice to absorb the water evenly without boiling over or burning the bottom.

Step 5: Rest Covered for 5 Minutes

Do not open the lid. Let the rice rest covered for 5 minutes. The residual steam finishes cooking the rice and makes it fluffy.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

Remove the lid, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve. Season with salt, butter, or your preferred seasoning.

Use a Microwave Rice Cooker for Foolproof Results

A dedicated microwave rice cooker is designed with the right proportions and venting to cook rice perfectly every time — no boilover, no guesswork.

👉 We recommend: Microwave Rice Cooker Steamer and Pasta Cooker with Strainer — Cooks Up to 8 Cups

Water Ratios by Rice Type

Tips for Fluffy Microwave Rice

• Rinse the rice: Removes surface starch for fluffier, less sticky results
• Use a large bowl: Rice expands and water bubbles — always use a bowl much larger than the dry rice volume
• Don't skip resting: The 5-minute rest is what makes the rice fluffy, not gummy
• Don't lift the lid during cooking: Steam escapes and cooking time increases
• Adjust water for your microwave: Higher-wattage microwaves may need slightly less water; lower-wattage may need slightly more

What to Avoid

• ❌ Don't use a small bowl — water will boil over
• ❌ Don't use full power the entire time — rice burns on the bottom
• ❌ Don't skip the resting step — rice won't be fluffy without it
• ❌ Don't open the lid during cooking or resting

Final Thoughts

Cooking rice in the microwave is simple and reliable once you know the right water ratio and power sequence. Start at full power to boil, drop to 50% to absorb, rest covered — and you'll have perfect fluffy rice every time. A microwave rice cooker makes the whole process even easier.