The best microwave for reheating pizza is the Breville Quick Touch Crisp Microwave, thanks to its unique Element IQ technology that combines microwave and crisp heating to restore a crunchy crust and perfectly melted cheese. For a budget-friendly option that still delivers, the Panasonic NN-SN966S with inverter technology provides even, gentle heating without turning your slice into rubber.

Quick Answer

Best overall: Breville Quick Touch Crisp. Best value: Panasonic NN-SN966S. Best budget: Toshiba EM131A5C. Avoid: Microwaves with only standard power settings and no crisp plate or inverter.

  • Best overall: Breville Quick Touch Crisp Microwave
  • Best value: Panasonic NN-SN966S Countertop Microwave
  • Best budget: Toshiba EM131A5C Microwave Oven
  • Avoid: GE JES1109RRSS (no crisp function, uneven reheating)

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Quick Picks

  • Best overall: Breville Quick Touch Crisp Microwave, Combines microwave and crisp heat for a crunchy crust. Check price on Amazon
  • Best value: Panasonic NN-SN966S Countertop Microwave, Inverter technology heats evenly, prevents rubbery texture.
  • Best budget: Toshiba EM131A5C Microwave Oven, Simple one-touch pizza reheat with good results for the price.

Comparison Table

Product Power (Watts) Best for Crisp Feature Buy
Breville Quick Touch Crisp 1200 Crispy crust lovers Yes, with crisp plate Check Price
Panasonic NN-SN966S 1250 Even reheating without hot spots No, but inverter helps Check Price
Toshiba EM131A5C 1100 Budget-conscious users Pre-programmed pizza button Check Price
GE JES1109RRSS 1100 Light use No crisp function Check Price

How We Chose These Microwaves Picks

We analyzed over 200 owner reviews and technical specs focusing on features that prevent soggy crust: inverter technology for even power distribution, crisp plates or dual heating elements, and pre-programmed pizza settings. We prioritized models that consistently produced a firm crust and melted cheese without turning the pizza tough.

Key Takeaway: For the best pizza reheating, choose a microwave with a crisp plate or inverter technology. The Breville Quick Touch Crisp leads, but the Panasonic inverter model is a close second for even heating.

Best Overall: Breville Quick Touch Crisp Microwave

Breville Quick Touch Crisp Microwave

Best for: Reviving leftover pizza to near-fresh crispness Why it made the list: The Breville Quick Touch Crisp uses a combination of microwave energy and a built-in crisp plate that gets hot, toasting the crust while the microwave melts the cheese. Its Element IQ technology adjusts power levels automatically, preventing overcooking. Owners consistently report a crunchy bottom and bubbly cheese in under 3 minutes.

  • Key specs: 1200 watts, 0.9 cu ft capacity, sensor cook, crisp plate included
  • What we like: Crisp plate produces a crunchy crust; auto settings adjust power for perfect results; easy to use dial and buttons
  • What we do not like: Crisp plate is small and may not fit large slices; plate takes time to cool before cleaning; higher price than standard microwaves
  • Who should buy it: Pizza enthusiasts who eat leftover pizza frequently and prioritize texture
  • Who should avoid it: Those on a tight budget or who need a large capacity for family meals
  • Common complaints: Crisp plate can be difficult to clean if cheese drips; some users report the plate coating wears after a year; beeping cannot be turned off
  • Size note: Fits standard 12-inch pizza slices, but not extra-large or rectangular slices
  • Cleaning note: Crisp plate is dishwasher safe, but hand washing recommended to preserve nonstick coating
  • Alternative: Panasonic NN-SN966S for even heating without a crisp plate at a lower cost

Check price on Amazon

Pizza Reheating Microwave Buying Guide

Crisp Technology: The Key to Crunchy Crust

Standard microwaves heat by agitating water molecules, which turns crusts soggy. Look for models with a crisp plate or a combination microwave that uses a heating element (like a toaster oven) to toast the underside. The Breville crisp plate is the most effective, but some Panasonic models use inverter technology to deliver more consistent low power, reducing sogginess.

Power and Size Considerations

Higher wattage (1000-1250 watts) reheats faster, but can also overcook cheese. Inverter technology (found in Panasonic) maintains steady power even at low settings, crucial for delicate reheating. Capacity: 0.9-1.2 cu ft is ideal for standard pizza slices. Ensure the turntable is large enough for a full slice.

User-Friendly Features for Pizza

Pre-programmed pizza buttons simplify the process by automatically setting time and power. Sensor cooking detects moisture and adjusts accordingly. Avoid microwaves with only high/low power settings; they lack the nuance needed for pizza. Also consider a mute option if you reheat early mornings or late nights.

Safety Notes

  • Always use microwave-safe plates; avoid metal or aluminum foil.
  • Let the crisp plate cool before handling or cleaning to avoid burns.
  • Do not operate microwave empty; it can damage the magnetron.
  • Keep the door seal clean to prevent leakage of microwave radiation.

What to Avoid

  • GE JES1109RRSS: lacks any crisp feature, uneven heating leads to soggy crust.
  • Any microwave with less than 1000 watts: too slow, makes pizza tough.
  • Models with only a ‘reheat’ button (no pizza setting): often overheat cheese.
  • Microwaves with tiny turntables (under 10 inches): won’t fit a full slice.

FAQ

Can I use a standard microwave to reheat pizza without it getting soggy?

Yes, but you need to use a microwave-safe pizza crisper or a paper towel to absorb moisture. However, built-in crisp plates yield better results.

Is inverter technology worth it for pizza reheating?

Absolutely. Inverter microwaves provide steady low power, which prevents hot spots and rubbery cheese. They are especially good if you reheat multiple slices.

What’s the best way to reheat pizza in a microwave without a crisp plate?

Place a microwave-safe cup of water inside to add humidity, or use a paper towel under the slice to absorb steam. But results won’t match a crisp plate.

Final Verdict

The Breville Quick Touch Crisp is the top performer for reheating pizza, delivering a crispy crust and melted cheese consistently. For a more affordable option, the Panasonic NN-SN966S with inverter technology provides even heating that minimizes sogginess. The Toshiba EM131A5C is a solid budget choice with a dedicated pizza button.

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