Patrick Oconnell
Melting cheese in the microwave is a quick and easy way to make a range of dishes, from cheese sauce to cheese crisps. Cheese sauce can be made in the microwave with just four ingredients and is ready in five minutes. It can be used to make mac and cheese, or drizzled over steamed vegetables. Cheese can also be melted on parchment paper to make cheese crisps, or used to make a grilled cheese sandwich.
Melting Cheese Slices in the Microwave
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Cheese | American Cheese, Shredded Sharp Cheddar, Mozzarella, Gruyere, Swiss, Monterey Jack |
| Paper | Parchment Paper |
| Time | 30 seconds to 1 minute |
| Technique | Place cheese on parchment paper and microwave |
| Add-ons | Butter, flour, milk, salt |
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What You'll Learn
Use parchment paper
Using parchment paper is an effective way to melt cheese in the microwave. This method is particularly suitable for American cheese. Start by placing a piece of parchment paper on a microwave-safe plate. Make sure the plate is large enough to accommodate the paper and any potential overflow of cheese. Next, evenly spread your shredded cheese of choice onto the parchment paper. Forming a round shape in the centre of the paper will help contain the cheese and ensure even melting.
Once you have prepared the cheese, it's time to microwave it. Place the plate with the cheese and parchment paper in the microwave and turn it on. Keep an eye on the cheese as it cooks, as microwaves can vary in power and cooking time. The cheese is ready when it has puffed up and turned crispy. At this point, switch off the microwave and remove the plate.
Allow the cheese to cool slightly before handling. Parchment paper is convenient as it allows for easy removal of the cheese from the plate. Simply peel the cheese off the parchment paper, and it's ready to be enjoyed! You can also let it cool completely, during which it will become crispier. This method of melting cheese on parchment paper in the microwave is simple and efficient, resulting in a tasty, crispy treat.
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Make cheese sauce
Making cheese sauce in the microwave is a quick and easy way to add flavour to many dishes. It is super simple and you only need one dish. In less than 5 minutes, you can have a thick and tasty homemade cheese sauce.
To make the sauce, you will need a microwave-safe bowl, butter, flour, milk, and shredded cheese. You can use any type of shredded cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack. You can also add spices such as salt, pepper, nutmeg, mustard, or hot sauce to taste.
First, add butter to the bowl and microwave it for about 50 seconds or until melted. Then, whisk together the butter, flour, and milk. You can add the milk gradually, microwaving the mixture in 30-60 second intervals until it bubbles and thickens. Be careful not to let it boil over.
Next, stir in the shredded cheese until it is fully incorporated and season with salt and pepper, or other spices of your choice. Place the bowl back in the microwave and cook on high for another 1-2 minutes, whisking every 30 seconds, until the sauce is thick and heated through.
Your cheese sauce is now ready to be served! It goes great on pasta, potatoes, vegetables, nachos, or as a dip for chicken wings and crackers. You can store any leftover sauce in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
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Make cheese crisps
Making cheese crisps in the microwave is a quick and easy process. You can use shredded cheese or cheese cubes, depending on your preference.
To start, place a piece of parchment paper on a microwave-safe plate. If you're using shredded cheese, spread it thinly and evenly in a round shape in the centre of the plate. You can also add some seasoning at this stage—everything bagel seasoning is a popular choice. If you're using cheese cubes, place them in a circle around the outer perimeter of the paper, about an inch from the edge and with at least 2-3 inches between each cube.
Now, it's time to microwave your cheese. The time will depend on your microwave's wattage and the type of cheese you're using. As a general guideline, shredded cheese will take around 2 minutes and 30 seconds to become crispy, while cheese cubes may take a little longer, up to 3 minutes. Keep an eye on your cheese to ensure it doesn't burn. You'll know it's ready when most of the liquid and grease have disappeared, and it feels crisp when tapped.
Once your cheese is crispy, carefully remove the parchment paper from the microwave and allow it to cool. As it cools, it will become even crispier. Finally, break up your cheese crisp into pieces, and enjoy!
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Don't burn the cheese
Melting cheese in the microwave is a quick and easy way to prepare a meal or a snack. However, it's important to be careful to avoid burning the cheese, as this can ruin your food and be harmful to your health. Burning cheese will result in saturated cheese, which is very unhealthy.
To avoid burning your cheese in the microwave, there are several methods you can try. Firstly, always use low heat. This is the simplest way to prevent burning, as higher temperatures can quickly burn the cheese. It is best to melt cheese in small intervals, gradually increasing the heat until you reach your desired consistency.
Another way to melt cheese without burning it is to grate the cheese before putting it in the microwave. Grated cheese has a larger surface area, which helps it melt faster and more evenly. You can also try placing the cheese on a microwave-safe plate with a piece of parchment paper underneath. This can help prevent the cheese from sticking and burning, and it also makes for easier cleanup.
Additionally, be mindful of the type of cheese you are using. Some cheeses, such as mozzarella, Gruyere, Gouda, and fontina, are better suited for melting and are less likely to burn. Aged cheeses, on the other hand, are more prone to burning and should be avoided.
Finally, keep a close eye on your cheese while it's in the microwave. The melting time can vary depending on the amount, size, shape, and temperature of the cheese, so it's important to check on it regularly to ensure it doesn't burn. By following these tips, you can enjoy melted cheese without worrying about burning it.
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Use a microwave-safe dish
To melt cheese slices in the microwave, it is important to use a microwave-safe dish. This is because microwave-safe dishes are made of materials that won't react to the high heat of the microwave and won't release harmful chemicals into your food. They are also designed to withstand the intense heat of the microwave without cracking or shattering.
When melting cheese, it is best to use a microwave-safe dish that is large enough to accommodate the amount of cheese you are melting. A 2-quart or 2-litre dish is typically large enough for melting cheese. You can use a microwave-safe bowl or a plate, depending on the shape and consistency of the cheese you are melting. For example, if you are melting cheese to make a sauce, a bowl is a better option, whereas if you are making cheese crisps, a plate is more suitable.
When preparing your microwave-safe dish, it is important to consider the type of cheese you are using. If you are melting shredded cheese, you can place it directly on the dish or plate. However, if you are melting cheese slices, it is best to place them in a single layer on the dish to ensure even melting. You can also cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to prevent splattering.
Using a microwave-safe dish is crucial for food safety and the longevity of your cookware. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for care and cleaning of your microwave-safe dishware to maintain their effectiveness and durability. Remember to handle the dish with care after removing it from the microwave as it will be hot.
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Frequently asked questions
It takes about 5 minutes to melt cheese in a microwave.
A microwave-safe dish should be used.
First, add butter to a microwave-safe dish and melt it in the microwave. Then, whisk in flour and milk, and finally, add the cheese and microwave for another 30 seconds.
Any type of cheese that melts easily can be used, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese.
Place the cheese slices on a piece of parchment paper and microwave until melted. This will prevent the cheese from puffing up and turning crispy.
