How to Reheat Pizza in Microwave and Keep Crispy

Can You Really Reheat Pizza in the Microwave and Keep It Crispy?

Microwaved pizza has a bad reputation — soggy crust, rubbery cheese, uneven heat. But with one simple trick, you can get surprisingly crispy results from your microwave. Here's exactly how to do it.

The Cup of Water Trick (Game Changer)

Place a microwave-safe mug or cup filled with about half a cup of water next to your pizza slice. Microwave on medium power (50–60%) for 45–60 seconds. The water absorbs excess microwave energy and creates a humid environment that heats the cheese gently without making the crust soggy.

This is the single most effective trick for microwave pizza reheating.

Step-by-Step: How to Reheat Pizza in the Microwave

1. Place one or two slices on a microwave-safe plate
2. Set a cup of water beside the plate inside the microwave
3. Microwave at 50–60% power for 45–60 seconds
4. Check — if not hot enough, add 15–20 seconds at a time
5. Let rest for 30 seconds before eating

Why Not Full Power?

Full power heats the cheese and toppings too fast, causing the crust to become chewy and the cheese to separate or turn rubbery. Medium power gives a more even, controlled heat that mimics a warm oven environment.

Use a Microwave-Safe Plate (Not Paper)

Paper plates absorb moisture from the crust, making it even soggier. Use a ceramic or glass plate for best results. A microwave-safe ceramic bowl or plate distributes heat more evenly than paper or thin plastic.

Optional: Use a Microwave Splatter Cover

If you're worried about cheese splattering, use a vented microwave splatter cover. It keeps your microwave clean while still allowing steam to escape — so the crust doesn't get soggy from trapped moisture.

👉 We recommend: Microwave Splatter Cover with Anti-Scald Base Plate (BPA-Free Silicone, 10.7 inch)

Reheating Multiple Slices

For more than two slices, increase time by 20–30 seconds per additional slice. Don't stack slices — heat them in a single layer for even results. If you have a large batch, consider doing two rounds rather than one long session.

When the Microwave Isn't Enough

For the crispiest results, a skillet on the stovetop or a toaster oven will always beat the microwave. But if you're short on time, the cup-of-water microwave method is the next best thing — and it takes under a minute.

What to Avoid

• ❌ Don't use full power — it makes crust chewy and cheese rubbery
• ❌ Don't cover tightly — trapped steam makes crust soggy
• ❌ Don't use paper plates — they absorb moisture from the crust
• ❌ Don't reheat for too long in one go — check every 30 seconds

Final Thoughts

Reheating pizza in the microwave and keeping it crispy is absolutely possible — the cup of water trick makes all the difference. Combine it with medium power and a proper plate, and you'll have hot, decent pizza in under a minute.