Hot pockets have long been a favorite of many, and they’re the ideal post-work snack. Similar to other tasty delights, they are inexpensive and often convenient. However, microwaving them can prove fatal if done incorrectly. Often they get burnt or aren’t cooked evenly.
So, how do you microwave hot pockets?
It’s actually quite simple. First, remove the hot Pocket from its wrapping and place it in a microwave-safe container. Next, microwave on high for roughly 2-4 minutes, depending on the number of hot pockets you need. If done correctly, at 74 ° C, it should be thoroughly heated and safe to consume.
Now, to help you understand these steps better, we’ve prepared an article with step-by-step instructions. Here you will learn how long it takes to microwave hot pockets and tips for cooking them evenly. We’ll also address some of your most common questions regarding microwaving hot pockets.
Before We Delve Further, What Are Hot Pockets?
Hot Pocket is an American brand of microwavable turnover made by Nestlé. Founded by Paul Merage and his brother David in 1981, Hot Pockets has become one of America’s favorite grab-and-go snack foods.
They’re available in various flavors and include more than one type of cheese, meat, or vegetables. While some are frozen and sold from grocery stores, others are sold fresh from fast food restaurants for you to reheat at home.
The delicacy is well known for being easy to make and budget-friendly because of its relatively low prices compared to other microwavable meals. Their modest price also allows them to be an affordable treat on kids’ school lunches.
How Long Do You Microwave a Hot Pocket
A hot pocket has various microwaving times depending on various factors. Below we explain these factors and tell you how long it will take to microwave your favorite on-the-go snack.
1. Microwave Wattage
The first factor is how much power your microwave has measured in watts (1,000 watts = 1 kilowatt). Generally speaking, microwaves with high wattages heat foods faster than those with low wattages.
For instance, heating a hot pocket in an 1100-watt microwave (the standard microwave in most homes) takes 2 minutes versus 4-5 minutes in a 700-watt microwave. So adjust your microwave appropriately if you are not sure of the power output of your microwave.
2. Frozen or Thawed?
A hot pocket that has been frozen for hours may take quite a while to heat, whereas an already thawed one will be ready in minutes. If you plan on heating your hot Pocket from frozen, be sure to give yourself time to defrost it properly before microwaving.
Don’t rush your microwave; this can lead to uneven cooking. If you forget and don’t allow enough time for thawing, wrap your hot Pocket in damp paper towels and heat until warm.
3. The Number of Hot Pockets
More Hot Pockets mean longer cooking time, especially if there are huge gaps between them in your microwave. If possible, arrange your pockets to reduce spacing as much as possible.
In fact, stuffing your Hot Pocket will not allow for proper heating of each Pocket. For optimal results, only microwave one at a time.
4. The Desired Result
The desired texture of your Hot Pocket will determine how long it takes to heat up. Some people enjoy a crispy crust and gooey cheese in every bite of their Hot Pockets, while others prefer everything to be evenly heated.
For instance, if you want your snack as crispy as possible, you’ll want to microwave for several minutes. However, if you prefer your Hot Pocket soft and tender, heating for less time might do.
5. The density of the Filling
The density of hot pocket fillings significantly affects how long it takes to microwave. For example, if we use beef or chicken as filling, it will require more time than cheese. This is because cheese takes less time to heat up and cook.
In general, you want a relatively light filling and not overly dense; denser fillings are more prone to cooking unevenly in microwave ovens.
Generally, a Hot Pocket will take 2 to 4 minutes to cook in a microwave thoroughly. However, you’ll want to look at your packaging for precise instructions.
A Guide on How to Microwave Hot Pockets
Fear not if you are running low on time and find yourself hungry for a hot pocket but lacking oven access. Here is how to make some in less than 5 minutes.
Step 1 – Remove the Outer Wrap
Before putting your Hot Pocket into the microwave, take off all of its external wrappings. This will reduce calories and fat and allow you to fit it onto a microwavable plate.
Step 2 – Put It in the Crisping Sleeve
After that, slide your hot Pocket into a crisping sleeve for two reasons: First, it helps maintain shape and crunchiness, and second it aids in heat distribution.
Step 3 – Place in a Microwave Safe Dish
Most microwaves come with at least one safe dish for heating food. If you have one, use it. If not, pick up something made of ceramic or glass and place your hot Pocket in there.
Step 4 – Microwave Your Hot Pocket
Put your Hot Pocket in the microwave and zap it on high for a few minutes. How long you need to cook depends on various factors such as your microwave wattage, number of Hot Pockets being cooked, etc. Also, keep in mind to cook only one Hot Pocket at a time.
At 74 ° C (165 ° F), these tasty treats will be piping hot and ready for consumption.
Step 5 – Pull It Out and Let it Cool Down.
Once your Hot Pocket is finished cooking, it should be safe to handle. Use oven mitts or potholders to pull it out of your microwave. Be careful not to burn yourself. Let it sit for about 2 minutes before eating or cutting into sections so that it can cool down.
Tips To Microwave Hot Pockets
Have you ever microwaved a Hot Pocket and thought it tasted awful? If so, here are some tips on how to do it right.
- Shake your hot Pocket while holding both ends: This ensures that the hot and cold fillings mix, allowing the hot Pocket to be heated evenly.
- Cook in a microwave-safe plate: These include glass or ceramic plates, so make sure you have one on hand before attempting to heat your hot Pocket.
- Set the correct cooking time for your microwave: For instance, if your microwave has a power range of 700 to 1100 watts, you will want to set it between 2 and 4 minutes on high power. If you have a different microwave model, check its manual before attempting to heat your hot Pocket.
- Microwave up to a temperature of 74 ° C: The hot pockets are best cooked at about 74 degrees Celsius (165 degrees Fahrenheit). However, check with your microwave’s manual for specific temperatures.
- Set the correct power level on your microwave: Hot Pockets should be microwaved on high power instead of medium or low.
- Always store the remaining Hot Pocket frozen: If you’re going to save it for later, make sure that you put it in your freezer immediately as they are highly perishable.
Faqs On How to Microwave Hot Pockets
Can I put hot pockets in the microwave?
Yes, you can put hot pockets in a microwave. However, ensure you cook them in a microwave-safe container and heat up to a temperature of at least 74 ° C for at least 2-4 minutes.
Are hot pockets better in the oven or microwave?
It depends on the kind of texture you prefer. The microwave allows for super-fast reheating while leaving it in a 350° oven will slowly crisp up all sides of your delicious pockets. Either way, they are sure to be as delicious as you remember them.
How long do pizza pockets go in the microwave?
It’s best to microwave your pizza pocket for 2 minutes on high power. Cook for 1 minute on one side, then flip and cook for 45 seconds to 1 minute on the other.
Can you heat hot pockets in the oven?
Yes, you can heat your hot pockets in an oven. It just won’t be as quick as a microwave.
How do you heat hot pockets in the oven?
First, preheat your oven to 350°. Then, unwrap your hot Pocket and place it directly onto a baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for 28 minutes or check the packaging to find the correct time. Finally, please remove it from the oven and let it cool down for 2 minutes before eating.
Is it safe to eat a thawed hot pocket?
It is safe to eat a thawed hot pocket. As long as you have frozen your hot Pocket and allowed it enough time to thaw in your refrigerator completely, you may heat it by microwaving.
How long do you microwave a hot pocket?
The time you will need to microwave a hot pocket depends on various factors, including the microwave’s wattage, the number of hot pockets being microwaved, whether thawed or frozen, etc.
For example, an 1100-watt microwave should cook one hot Pocket in about 2 minutes, whereas a 700-watt microwave will take closer to 4 minutes.
How long do I microwave a big and bold hot pocket?
An 1100 watt microwave will take about 3 minutes and 15 seconds to cook your big and bold hot Pocket. Lastly, let it sit for 2 minutes before removing it from your microwave for the best outcome.
Can you cook a hot pocket in a toaster?
Yes, you can cook a hot pocket in a toaster. This is an easy alternative for those without microwaves.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a quick and easy snack, nothing fits the bill quite like Hot Pockets. However, as with most convenience foods, there are several tips to consider when microwaving your hot pockets to ensure they cook evenly.
You want to ensure that you set the correct time and power level and follow any additional tips on your hot pocket packaging. In most cases, it’s best to microwave your hot Pocket for 2-4 minutes on high power, depending on your microwave wattage.
Furthermore, you may want to ensure that you cook your hot Pocket up to a temperature of 165 degrees before eating. And finally, when storing your hot pockets, it’s best to refrigerate them as they are highly perishable.
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