How to Reheat White Rice in the Microwave 🍚
Quick answer
Reheat white rice in the microwave at Full power for 2 min — this is the best method for a moist result. Verify it reaches 165°F internal before eating.
Step-by-step
- 1.Add 1-2 tbsp water per cup of rice and break up clumps.
- 2.Cover with a damp paper towel (this is the whole trick — it re-steams).
- 3.Microwave 2 minutes, fluffing at 1 minute.
⚡ Calibrate to your microwave
Your time: 2 min
Wattage is on the sticker inside your microwave door.
Pro tip: An ice cube on top instead of sprinkled water melts at exactly the right rate to re-steam the rice.
⚠️ Food safety — read this one
Cooked rice can harbor Bacillus cereus, which survives reheating if rice sat out too long. Refrigerate rice within 1 hour of cooking, reheat to 165°F until steaming throughout, and reheat only once.
❄️ From frozen: extend to about 4 min and check the center is fully hot before eating.
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What's the best way to reheat white rice?
The microwave gives the best result: about 2 minutes, aiming for a moist finish. An ice cube on top instead of sprinkled water melts at exactly the right rate to re-steam the rice.
How long does white rice last in the fridge?
White Rice keeps about 3 days refrigerated at or below 40°F in an airtight container. When reheating, bring it to 165°F internal.
Can you reheat white rice more than once?
Not recommended. Cooked rice can harbor Bacillus cereus, which survives reheating if rice sat out too long. Refrigerate rice within 1 hour of cooking, reheat to 165°F until steaming throughout, and reheat only once. Reheat only the portion you'll eat.