What is a Microwave Pressure Cooker & Why It’s Handy

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I love handy kitchen gadgets, especially when they make life easier and dinner quicker. So, what is a microwave pressure cooker? Basically, it’s a cooking vessel which uses the fast pressurized cooking method of a pressure cooker and combines it with the convenience of microwave heating.

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Of course, that’s just a very high-level explanation. I’ll go more in depth about what a microwave pressure cooker is, what it can do, and help you decide if it’s a good addition to your cooking gadgetry.

Tupperware Microwave Pressure Cooker – 2 Quarts

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If you’re feeling hungry, take a look at the best Tupperware microwave pressure cooker recipes to try!

What’s the Difference Between a Regular Pressure Cooker, Instant Pot, and a Microwave Pressure Cooker?

Standard Pressure CookerMicrowave Pressure CookerInstant Pot Pressure Cooker
External HousingMetalPlasticMetal
Avg. Max Pressure15 PSI5 PSI15 PSI
Cook Time (Lamb Curry)30 Minutes20 Minutes20 Minutes
Preheating RequiredYesNoYes
Unit Size10 x 16 x 9 inches 10 x 6.5 x 11 inches13 x 13 x 13 inches
Cooking Capacity Avg6 Quart2.5 Quart6 Quart
Requires MicrowaveNoYesNo
Requires StoveYesNoNo
Power CordNoNoYes
Comparison of a standard, instant pot, and microwave pressure cooker features

As you can see, the microwave pressure cooker differs in a few ways from both the regular and Instant Pot pressure cookers:

  • It cooks slightly faster overall than a regular pot, and the same as the Instant Pot
  • You don’t need to wait for a microwave pressure cooker to come up to temperature to begin cooking like the other two, which saves overall cooking time
  • The pressure (PSI) generated is less, making it safer to use
  • A microwave pressure cooker is smaller in size, so storing it is easier
  • Overall, you’ll get a smaller cooking chamber (but it’s still sufficient for sides, desserts, and dinner for 2-3 people)

The microwave cooker simply uses the energy already being generated from your microwave’s cooking program. There’s no stove or power cord required and no need to keep an eye on things as closely during cooking!

It’s the same reason I love the convenience of a sensor cooking microwave. Anything to make life easier is a win for me!

Overall, I recommend the microwave pressure cooker for the ease of use, storage, and the time saving capabilities.

However, if you’re trying to feed a large group, a standard pressure cooker may be a better option. Alternatively, the Instant Pot is a good choice if you’d also like additional programs available.

How Do You Use a Microwave Pressure Cooker?

  1. Add recipe liquids first. Make sure the bottom of the microwave pressure cooker is covered completely
  2. Next, add meat, vegetables, herbs, and seasonings to the cooking pot. For faster cooking times, cut the meat into smaller chunks. Sear meat ahead of time in a frying pan if desired
  3. Ensure that the cooking chamber is no more than ⅔ full to allow for safe pressure buildup
  4. Secure the lid onto your pressure cooker. Check that it’s fully latched and that nothing is obstructing the release valve
  5. Place the cooker into the microwave and cook on high following the time in the recipe guidelines
  6. Let the microwave pressure cooker rest for 6-10 minutes after cooking completes to reduce internal pressure. Alternatively, run under cold water to reduce pressure faster
  7. When the regulator indicates that the cooker is depressurized, it is safe to open the lid and remove your food

As always, make sure to consult your specific microwave pressure cooker’s user manual for guidance.

https://youtu.be/y4TpMLnWtbs
Tupperware microwave pressure cooker

What Do You Cook in a Microwave Pressure Cooker?

  1. Rice
  2. Beans 
  3. Vegetables
  4. Soup & stews
  5. Chili
  6. Curries
  7. Rice pudding
  8. Shredded chicken
  9. Pot Roast
  10. Mac & Cheese
  11. Mussels and other seafood

Of course, this list isn’t completely comprehensive, but as you can see the microwave pressure cooker is extremely versatile for a number of different recipes. From starts to main dishes to desserts, there’s nothing your pressure cooker can’t tackle!

From pot roast to risotto, take a peek at our 5 best microwave pressure cooker recipes to try today!

Conclusion

A microwave pressure cooker brings the convenience of quick microwave cooking to the tender meals a pressure cooker turns out. Unlike other versions of pressure cookers, the microwave version is fast, safe, and easy to both use and store.

Overall, it’s perfect for busy nights, getting dinner on the table in less time while feeling like it’s cooked all day.

If you like multi-functional quick cooking gadgets, check out our list of the best air fryer microwave combos for a great appliance that does both!

Katie Vine
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