Ever find yourself staring at a pot, willing rice to cook faster after a long day? I’ve been there to many times. That’s where the humble small microwave rice cooker comes in as a potential game-changer for solo diners, small families, or anyone short on counter space. It promises perfectly steamed rice in minutes without watching a stove, which sounds almost to good to be true, right?
But does this convenient gadget actually deliver fluffy, separate grains, or does it leave you with a gummy mess? We put a popular model through its paces to see if it’s worth a spot in your kitchen cabinet. Let’s dive into whether this microwave miracle can truly simplify your meal prep.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Small Microwave Rice Cooker
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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Joseph Joseph M-Cuisine Microwave Rice Cooker Steamer 2 Liter/8.5…
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9.6 |
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Sistema Microwave Rice Cooker & Round Microwave Food Container…
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9.4 |
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Professional Large Micro Cookware 3 Quart, Microwave Rice Cooker,…
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9.2 |
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Prep Solutions by Progressive Microwaveable Rice and Pasta Cooker-17…
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9.1 |
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Microwave Rice Cooker Steamer, Microwave Pasta Cooker with Strainer,…
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8.9 |
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Zwippy Microwave Rice Cooker Steamer and Pasta Cooker with…
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8.7 |
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Microwave Rice Steamer Cooker BPA-Free – 2.6L (87.9oz) Red…
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8.5 |
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HARIO XRCN-2-B Glass Microwave Rice Pot, 1 to 2…
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8.4 |
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Microwave Rice Cooker: Portable Microwave Rice Steamer for Vegetable,…
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8.2 |
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Microwave Rice Cooker Portable Microwave Steamer Bowl for Vegetables…
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8.0 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Small Microwave Rice Cooker
Joseph Joseph M-Cuisine Microwave Rice Cooker Steamer 2 Liter/8.5 Cup – Stone/Orange
Joseph Joseph M-Cuisine Microwave Rice Cooker Steamer 2 Liter/8.5 Cup – Stone/Orange
This is a complete system for making rice and grains in your microwave, designed to simplify the entire process from start to finish. It consolidates what usually requires multiple bowls and tools into one neat set. You begin by using the included measuring cup to portion out your rice or grains directly into the main 2-liter cooking pot.
You can then wash them right in that same pot using the clever colander insert. The colander fits snugly inside, allowing you to rinse and drain without transferring anything to another dish, which keeps your counter clean and saves time. Once washed, you remove the colander, add the correct amount of water to the pot, and cover it with the lid. The pot then goes straight into your microwave.
The design ensures even cooking and helps trap steam effectively, which is key for achieving that perfectly fluffy, separate-grain texture. It’s not just for white rice either; you can use it for brown rice, quinoa, couscous, and other similar grains. This versatility makes it a great tool for expanding your side dish options with minimal fuss. After cooking, the set continues to be useful. The specially designed rice paddle has a dual function.
Sistema Microwave Rice Cooker & Round Microwave Food Container Set | 2.6L, 915ml | Food Containers with Steam-Release Vents | BPA-Free | 2 Count
The Sistema Microwave Rice Cooker & Round Container Set is a versatile kitchen duo designed to simplify cooking and storage. This two-piece set combines a dedicated rice cooker with a general-purpose container, both made for microwave use. It’s a straightforward solution for anyone looking to save time and counter space without needing another appliance.
Let’s start with the main event: the 2.6-liter Microwave Rice Cooker. It works on a simple principle.
You add your rice and water, secure the lid with it’s easy-locking clips, and place it in the microwave. Inside, a pressure chamber plate helps create the right environment for cooking. This system is meant to trap steam effectively, aiming for rice that comes out moist and fluffy rather than dry or unevenly cooked.
It’s not just for white rice either; you can use it for grains like couscous or polenta, making it a handy tool for various sides.
The set also includes a 915ml Round Microwave Container. This container is your go-to for reheating leftovers, cooking vegetables, or even steaming small portions of fish. The lid has a built-in steam-release vent, which is a key feature. This vent allows excess steam to escape during heating, which helps prevent messy splatters all over your microwave walls.
Professional Large Micro Cookware 3 Quart, Microwave Rice Cooker, Microwave Steamer for Vegetables, Safe as Mixing and Serving Bowls, Food Storage Container, Cooker for Microwave- BPA Free, Dishwasher Safe
The Professional Large Micro Cookware 3 Quart is a versatile kitchen tool designed to simplify your cooking routine using the microwave. It combines the functions of a rice cooker, vegetable steamer, mixing bowl, and storage container into one convenient, BPA-free product. If you’re looking to save time and counter space, this might be the helper you need.
Made from high-temperature resistant materials, this cookware is built specifically for microwave use.
Its completely BPA-free construction ensures 100% food safety, and when your done, you can simply pop it in the dishwasher for easy cleanup. This durability means it’s suitable for steaming all kinds of foods, from delicate veggies to hearty grains.
With a large 3-quart capacity (about 12 cups), it’s perfectly sized for family meals.
The inner walls have helpful measurement scales marked on them, making it easy to portion out water, rice, or other ingredients without needing extra measuring cups. It’s ideal for cooking larger batches of rice, quinoa, or steaming enough vegetables for several people. The marked scale inside shows 10 cups or 2.5 liters for your reference.
One of it’s standout features is the clever boil-over design.
Prep Solutions by Progressive Microwaveable Rice and Pasta Cooker-17 Piece Set Includes Measuring Spoons and Cups, Rice Paddle, Steaming Insert, Pasta Measurer and Locking Lid-12 Cup Capacity BPA FREE, Gray
The PrepSolutions by Progressive Microwaveable Rice and Pasta Cooker-17 Piece Set is a comprehensive kitchen tool designed to simplify cooking grains and pasta. It centers around a large, 12-cup capacity cooker bowl that is BPA-free and completely safe for microwave use. The set comes with a full suite of accessories, including measuring spoons and cups, a rice paddle, a steaming insert, a pasta measurer, and a specially designed locking lid.
This collection aims to handle several common cooking tasks from one main unit. Cooking rice can be a tricky task, often resulting in a sticky pot or uneven texture. This cooker is specifically engineered for that job. You simply add your rice and water to the bowl, secure the lid, and microwave it. The design promotes even cooking and helps prevent the boil-overs that can make a mess of your microwave.
It works well with all types of rice, from white and brown to jasmine and basmati, and its also excellent for reheating leftover rice quickly without drying it out. The locking lid is a key feature here; it clicks securely into place to create a seal. This means you can carry the cooker from the microwave to the counter without worrying about spills or steam burns, making the whole process much cleaner and safer. Beyond rice, the set’s versatility really shines.
Microwave Rice Cooker Steamer, Microwave Pasta Cooker with Strainer, 2 L Microwave Cookware Set for Rice, Pasta, Vegetables, Quinoa, Oatmeal, Ramen Non stick (orange)
The Microwave Rice Cooker Steamer and Pasta Cooker Set is designed to simplify how you prepare everyday meals. This 2-liter, non-stick cookware set in orange is a versatile kitchen helper that works entirely in your microwave, aiming to replace several pots and appliances.
Its core function centers on perfect cooking. The design uses a unique steam circulation system with microwave technology to cook food evenly.
This means your rice or pasta comes out consistently cooked without sticking to the bottom or boiling over. It handles the process for you, potentially eliminating the need for separate pots, pans, colanders, and electric cookers for these basic tasks.
A significant benefit is the saving of time and energy. Cooking in a microwave is generally faster than using a stovetop and can use less electricity, which might help reduce your utility bills. The process is also hands-off.
You simply add your ingredients, set the microwave timer, and you’re free to step away from the kitchen without worrying about stirring or watching a pot.
The cooker promotes a healthy cooking method on autopilot. It’s constructed from BPA-free plastic, ensuring no harmful chemicals leach into your food during the cooking process. Its compact size makes it portable for travel, dorm rooms, or offices—anywhere you have access to a microwave.
Variety is a key feature.
Zwippy Microwave Rice Cooker Steamer and Pasta Cooker with Strainer – Mess-Free Design, Dishwasher Safe, Cooks Up to 8 Cups
The Zwippy Microwave Rice Cooker Steamer and Pasta Cooker with Strainer is designed to simplify your kitchen routine. It’s an all-in-one tool that uses your microwave to prepare nutritious sides and mains quickly, focusing on convenience and easy cleanup. If your daily cooking involves a lot of rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables, this product aims to streamline that process significantly. Its core function is preparing perfectly steamed rice or a variety of vegetables in minutes.
You can cook up to 8 cups of your favorite brown or white rice. It also handles vegetables like corn, potatoes, carrots, and green beans efficiently. This makes it a practical solution for daily meals, helping you incorporate healthy sides without needing multiple pots. For busy households or college dorms where kitchen space and time are limited, this ease-of-use is a major benefit. It helps you avoid the traditional hassles of draining boiling water and washing several pots and pans.
A standout feature is its capability as a microwave pasta cooker. The unit has a built-in colander, which allows for a seamless transition from cooking to straining. You simply lift the inner container to drain the water, aiming for perfectly prepared pasta without needing a separate strainer. This design is central to its mess-free promise.
Microwave Rice Steamer Cooker BPA-Free – 2.6L (87.9oz) Red Rice Maker with Lid and Spoon – Dishwasher Safe Microwaveable Cooker for Basmati, Spanish, Indian Rice, Pasta, Ramen, and Vegetables
The Microwave Rice Steamer Cooker BPA-Free – 2.6L (87.9oz) Red Rice Maker is a straightforward kitchen helper designed to simplify how you cook grains and more. Its main job is to take the guesswork out of making rice in the microwave, but it’s versatility means you’ll probably use it for alot more than that. The 2.6-liter capacity is a practical size, letting you prepare up to ten cups of cooked rice.
That’s perfect for feeding a family or cooking a larger batch for weekly meal prep, so you have ready-to-go bases for lunches and dinners. What sets this cooker apart is it’s focus on even cooking. The vented locking lid is key here. It allows for a gradual release of steam during the cooking process, which promotes better circulation inside the container. This helps ensure your rice cooks consistently from top to bottom, avoiding those annoying dry or soggy patches.
The result is rice with a noticeably better texture, whether your making fluffy basmati for curry or sticky rice for a bowl. The transparent lid lets you keep an eye on things without releasing all the heat, and the side clips help keep everything secure when your moving it. Of course, its not just for rice. The design makes it a handy tool for quickly cooking pasta, ramen noodles, or steaming vegetables. The “fast microwave cooking” feature is really about convenience and minimizing cleanup.
HARIO XRCN-2-B Glass Microwave Rice Pot, 1 to 2 Cups, For Microwaves, Black, 1 to 2 Cups, Made in Japan
The HARIO XRCN-2-B Glass Microwave Rice Pot is a clever little kitchen tool designed to simplify cooking for one or two people. It’s a straightforward solution for making perfect rice without using a stovetop. You just add your rice and water, pop the lid on, and place it in your microwave. In minutes, you’ll have fluffy, cooked rice ready to go.
It’s especally handy for small households, dorm rooms, or offices where you want a quick single serving.
One of the best things about this pot is its material. It’s made from durable heat-resistant glass. Because it’s glass, it does not absorb odors or flavors from previous meals. Your rice will taste like rice, not like last night’s curry. The glass also makes it incredibly easy to clean and you can see exactly what’s happening inside as your food cooks.
And since it’s from Hario, a trusted Japanese brand known for quality glassware, you know your getting a well-made product.
Beyond just rice, this pot is surprisingly versatile. The product features highlight its use for easy egg cooking. You can poach or steam eggs right in the microwave with it. The included original recipes give you ideas to get started and experiment with different grains or simple microwave dishes.
Microwave Rice Cooker: Portable Microwave Rice Steamer for Vegetable, Microwavable Pasta Cookware, Kitchen Non- Stick Pot Bacon Cooker for Cooking Soup Stews Oatmeal Steamer Food 18x18x15cm
The Microwave Rice Cooker: Portable Microwave Rice Steamer is a compact kitchen tool designed to simplify cooking using the appliance you already own: your microwave. Its core purpose is to provide a fast, convenient, and mess-free method for preparing a wide range of foods without needing a stovetop or a collection of pots. This cooker is specifically engineered for microwave use. The food-grade plastic construction ensures it can safely handle the heat and is built for long-term durability.
It’s important to note that its designed for microwave cooking only, not for conventional ovens or stovetops. The non-stick interior makes cooking and cleaning straightforward, preventing rice or oatmeal from sticking to the sides. Versatility is a key strength. While it excels at cooking all types of rice perfectly, its functionality extends far beyond. You can use it to steam vegetables, cook pasta or noodles, and even prepare soups, stews, and porridge.
This makes it a single appliance that caters to many different meal needs, from a simple side of steamed broccoli to a hearty single-serving soup. Its size is a major advantage for those with limited space or on-the-go lifestyles. Measuring roughly 8 by 7 by 5.5 inches and weighing less than half a pound, it’s incredibly lightweight and easy to store. It fits neatly in small kitchen cabinets, dorm rooms, or office break rooms.
Microwave Rice Cooker Portable Microwave Steamer Bowl for Vegetables Pasta Soup Oatmeal Food Storage Container for Small Kitchens, Dorms, or Offices, Dishwasher Safe, Yellow
The Microwave Rice Cooker Portable Steamer Bowl is a clever little kitchen helper designed to simplify cooking in compact spaces. If you have a microwave but limited countertop or storage room, this container aims to be a versatile all-in-one solution. Its bright yellow design is cheerful and practical, making it easy to spot in a crowded office fridge or a small dorm cabinet.
Constructed from food-grade, BPA-free PP plastic, this bowl is built to handle your daily routine safely.
It can withstand temperatures from freezer-chill -20°C all the way up to microwave-hot 120°C. This means you can store a portion in the freezer overnight, then take it straight to the microwave for reheating or cooking without needing to switch containers. The material is sturdy and designed for repeated use, offering a more sustainable option than disposable containers.
Ease of use is a central focus.
The design includes a lid that locks securely in place, featuring a dedicated steam vent. This vent is key—it allows pressure to escape during cooking, which helps prevent messy boil-overs and splatters inside your microwave. On top of the lid, a cool-touch handle provides a safe grip for carrying the bowl after its been heated, so you don’t risk burning your fingers. The overall process is straightforward: add your ingredients, lock the lid, and microwave.
Small Microwave Rice Cooker Buying Guide
These handy gadgets are a game-changer for small kitchens or quick meals. A small microwave rice cooker is a simple, lidded container designed to cook perfect rice in your microwave. You get fluffy results without needing a bulky appliance taking up counter space. The key is finding one that’s teh right size, easy to clean, and built to last.
Capacity and Size
Think about how much rice you normally make. A 2-3 cup (cooked) capacity is ideal for one or two people. Check the cooker’s physical dimensions too—it needs to fit comfortably inside your microwave and in your cabinet. There’s no point in a space-saving tool that’s itself awkward to store.
Material and Durability
Most are made from BPA-free plastic, which is lightweight and affordable. Some higher-end models use glass, which is easier to clean and won’t stain. Look for sturdy, thick material that can handle repeated heating. The lid should seal snugly but be easy to remove, often with a steam vent to prevent messy boil-overs.
Ease of Cleaning
This is huge. After a long day, you don’t want to scrub a sticky pot. A non-stick inner coating is a major plus. Dishwasher-safe parts are the ultimate win for convenience. Make sure the lid and any steam vents can be cleaned properly, as dried rice is surprisingly tough to get out of small crevices.
Multifunctionality
Many of these cookers aren’t just for rice. You can use them to steam vegetables, cook pasta, or even make simple one-pot meals like quinoa or oatmeal. Check if the included instructions or recipe booklet suggests other uses—it increases the value of your purchase significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Small Microwave Rice Cooker
What is a microwave rice cooker?
It’s a special container you use in your microwave. It’s designed to cook rice perfectly without needing a pot on teh stove. Most are made from BPA-free plastic and have a vented lid.
How much rice can it make?
Small cookers are great for one or two people. They typically hold 2 to 4 cups of uncooked rice. That gives you enough for a few meals, which is handy for singles or small families.
Is it easy to use?
Yes, it’s very simple. You just add rice and water, put on the lid, and microwave it. The instructions tell you the right time. No need to watch a pot or worry about it boiling over.
Can I cook other foods in it?
Absolutely. You can steam vegetables, cook quinoa, or even make oatmeal. It’s a versatile little tool for your kitchen. Just check your cooker’s manual for specific ideas.
How do I clean it?
Cleaning is usually easy. Most parts are dishwasher safe on the top rack. The non-stick interior makes it simple to wipe clean, too. Just be sure it’s cooled down first.
What type of rice works best?
It works well with most common types like white, brown, or jasmine rice. You might need to adjust the water amount slightly depending on the rice. The instructions often have a handy guide for this.
Is it safe for my microwave?
Yes, if you use it correctly. Always ensure the lid is on properly so steam can vent. Never use metal utensils with it. And make sure your model is clearly labeled as microwave-safe.
Where should I store it?
It doesn’t take up much space. You can store it with your other microwave-safe containers. Some even come with lids that lock on, which makes stacking them easier.
What to Remember
So, that’s the basics of using one of these handy little appliances. It really is about finding a tool that fits your routine. If you’re often cooking for just one or two people, or if your stovetop is constantly busy, it makes a lot of sense. The cleanup is usually straightforward, and it saves you from watching a pot.
In the end, a good small microwave rice cooker is about simple convenience. It won’t replace every pot in your kitchen, but it does one job very well. Think about how often you actually make rice or steam veggies. If it’s regularly, this could be a real helper for you. Just check the capacity and materials to find your best match, and you’ll be set for easy meals.