Microwaving Cheese On Chips: How Long Is Too Long?

There's nothing quite like a plate of nachos, but when you're short on time, using the oven isn't always an option. Luckily, you can make delicious nachos in the microwave in just a few minutes. But how long should you microwave the cheese on your chips? The answer depends on the type of cheese and the power of your microwave. For soft or semi-soft melting cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella, 30 seconds to 1 minute on high power should be enough to melt the cheese without overcooking it. If you're using a harder cheese, be careful – these cheeses can seize up in the microwave. It's best to melt them in shorter bursts until they're just melted.

The best cheese for microwave nachos

Microwaved nachos are a quick and easy snack that can be ready in minutes. The key to getting them right is to use the right type of cheese.

It's best to avoid hard cheeses, as these can seize up in the microwave. Instead, opt for soft or semi-soft melting cheeses. A combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack is a great choice, as the former adds sharpness and the latter is perfect for melting. You could also add a little pepper jack for some extra kick.

American cheese can work in a pinch, but it tends to have a weird texture once it cools down. If you're making a large batch, you might want to stick to a cheese blend that's designed to melt well, such as a Mexican cheese blend.

When preparing your nachos, it's important to remember that a little cheese goes a long way. Try to spread it out evenly across the chips, rather than piling it up in the centre. And keep in mind that cheese melts quickly in the microwave, so heat it in short bursts to avoid overcooking.

Now that you know the best cheeses for microwave nachos, here's a step-by-step guide to making them:

How to Make Microwave Nachos

Step 1: Start by spreading your tortilla chips out on a microwave-safe plate. Don't overload the plate, as you want to make sure each chip gets its fair share of cheese.

Step 2: Sprinkle your chosen cheese evenly over the chips. Remember, a little goes a long way!

Step 3: If you're adding any toppings that benefit from a bit of heat (like jalapeños), add them now.

Step 4: Microwave on high for around 1 minute, keeping a close eye on the nachos. The cooking time will vary depending on your microwave, and you want to make sure the cheese is melted but not burnt.

Step 5: Let the nachos stand for a few minutes to finish cooking. Remember, they'll continue to cook even after you've taken them out of the microwave.

Step 6: Add any fresh toppings, like sour cream, salsa, avocado, or herbs.

Step 7: Enjoy your delicious, cheesy microwave nachos!

How to avoid soggy nachos

Choosing the Right Cheese

Avoid using hard cheeses as they can seize up in the microwave. Instead, opt for soft or semi-soft melting cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even processed cheese. These cheeses melt more evenly and rapidly in the microwave.

Preparing the Chips

Before adding any toppings, spread your chips out on a microwave-safe plate and heat them for 20-30 seconds on high. This toasts the chips and warms them up.

Adding the Cheese

Evenly spread the cheese over the chips, avoiding piling it up in the center. This ensures that the cheese melts evenly and helps prevent sogginess.

Melting the Cheese

Microwave the chips and cheese in 15-20 second intervals until the cheese is just melted. Be careful not to overcook, as the cheese can quickly scorch.

Adding Toppings

Once the cheese is melted, add any additional toppings such as jalapenos, salsa, or avocado, and microwave for another 15 seconds to warm them through. Avoid adding watery toppings, as they can make the nachos soggy.

Serving

Remove the nachos from the microwave and add fresh toppings such as sour cream, herbs, or guacamole. Serve immediately.

The importance of heating your chips first

When it comes to preparing the perfect plate of cheesy chips, the order of operations is crucial. While it may be tempting to cut corners and combine steps, taking the time to heat your chips first will pay off in terms of both taste and texture. Here's why:

Restoring Crunchiness

Heating your chips first is essential to restoring their crunchiness, especially if they have been sitting out and become stale. By placing them in the oven or microwave before adding any toppings, you give them a chance to crisp up and regain that satisfying texture. This is a key step in ensuring your chips don't end up soggy or chewy.

Enhancing Flavour

The warmth from heating your chips first not only improves their texture but also enhances their flavour. The heat brings out the spices and seasonings used in the chips' manufacturing process, making them more aromatic and tasty. This simple step can elevate the overall eating experience.

Avoiding Sogginess

If you add cheese directly to cold chips, you run the risk of creating a soggy mess. Cheese, especially softer varieties, tends to melt quickly and can make your chips mushy. By heating your chips first, you create a barrier that helps prevent them from absorbing too much moisture from the cheese, keeping them crisp and delicious.

Achieving Even Heating

When you heat your chips first, you ensure that they are evenly heated through. This is especially important if you are using an oven, as it can be challenging to get even heating throughout the chip layer if they are placed in the oven with the cheese already on top. Heating the chips first allows you to focus on getting them to the perfect level of crispiness without worrying about overcooking the cheese.

Melting Cheese Effectively

Adding cheese to already heated chips can help you achieve the perfect melt. Cold chips can lower the temperature of the cheese, making it difficult to melt evenly. By starting with warm chips, you create a better base for the cheese to melt smoothly and evenly, reducing the risk of overcooking or ending up with greasy, clumpy cheese.

In summary, taking the time to heat your chips first before adding cheese is a crucial step in creating the ultimate cheesy chip experience. It ensures your chips are crunchy, flavourful, and evenly heated, while also providing the perfect base for a smooth and gooey cheese melt. So, the next time you're craving cheesy chips, remember to heat those chips first!

How long to microwave for

The time for which you microwave your cheese and chips depends on the type of cheese you are using, the strength of your microwave, and the number of toppings you have added.

If you are using a soft or semi-soft melting cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella, it is best to microwave the cheese in short bursts to avoid scorching. Try microwaving for 15-20 second bursts until the cheese is melted but not burnt. If you are using a hard cheese, be aware that it may seize up in the microwave.

The strength of your microwave will also determine how long you should microwave your cheese and chips. For example, if you are using an 800W microwave, 30 seconds may be sufficient to melt the cheese. However, if you have a less powerful microwave, you may need to microwave for a longer period.

Additionally, if you are adding multiple toppings, you may need to microwave for a longer period to ensure that all the ingredients are heated through. Microwaving the chips first for 20-30 seconds before adding the cheese and other toppings can help to speed up the cooking process and ensure that the cheese melts evenly.

It is important to keep an eye on your cheese and chips while they are in the microwave, as the cooking time can vary. Remove the plate from the microwave as soon as the cheese is melted to avoid overcooking. Remember that microwave cooking continues for a few minutes after removing the food from the oven.

Toppings to add

There are many toppings you can add to your chips with cheese. Here are some ideas:

Fresh ingredients

• Freshly chopped tomatoes
• Sliced avocado
• Sliced green onions
• Shredded lettuce
• Spring onions (scallions)
• Chives

Sauces

• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Salsa
• Homemade pico de gallo
• Garlic aioli
• Curry sauce
• Onion gravy
• BBQ sauce
• Ketchup
• Mayo
• Garlic butter

Meats

• Bacon bits
• Slow cooker pulled pork
• Slow cooker beef chilli

Cheeses

• Cheddar
• Monterey Jack
• Pepper Jack
• Mozzarella
• Blue cheese
• Brie
• Parmesan
• Mexican cheese blend
• Four-cheese blend

Other

• Baked beans
• Jalapeños
• Pickled jalapeños
• Black olives
• Fajita seasoning
• Peri peri seasoning
• Cajun seasoning
• Mexican seasoning

Frequently asked questions