The Key To Flame-Broiled Flavor From Your Microwave Is Just One Button

There are so many microwave hacks out there, and grilling is one of them. Yes, your microwave can grill. Some microwaves include an extra feature called grill mode, and it's the quickest way to get that flame-broiled flavor without stepping outside or scrubbing a barbecue grill. You don't need charcoal or a fancy setup; just one button can change the way your food looks, smells, and tastes. 

What exactly is grill mode? It's not the same microwave setting for simply heating up food. Grill mode uses a heating element built into the microwave that is usually on the ceiling of it. Once you flip this mode on, it works like the top of a broiler or a mini electric grill. To put it simply, it can brown, crisp, and even give your food those delicious dark spots you'd normally only get from a flame or hot pan.

Grill mode doesn't aim to bake things evenly, but focuses heat from the top to give that seared finish on the outside. It works for food like chicken breasts, vegetables, burgers, or even pizza leftovers, which you want crispier on top. And you're still using the microwave, so it is faster and so much less messy than using a stove or oven — you don't have to preheat anything for 20 minutes and stand over a flame. Instead, you just press one button and your food starts to get its golden brownness while the inside stays juicy and tender.

While grill mode on a microwave is easy to use, there are a few things to know to ensure you get the most from it. First, make sure to clean your microwave before using it, because let's face it, you probably aren't cleaning your microwave enough. This gets rid of any unwanted flavors and scents. Once you've found the grill mode button, you usually press it before or after you set your cooking time. There are also microwaves that will allow you to combine grill mode with microwave mode so you can cook both the inside and outside of your food.

You'll also want to use the right type of cookware, since there are so many common items that should not be put into a microwave. An ovenproof dish that is heat-safe, or the rack that comes with your microwave, is perfect. Keep in mind that the rack raises your food closer to the heating element, so it gets crispy coming off that little rack faster. Think of it like a shortcut to the top shelf of a broiler. Timing is important, too; because grill mode uses direct heat, it works well with food that has already been cooked or food that simply doesn't require a long cook time. So the next time your dinner needs a boost, hit that grill button and give your food the flavor it deserves.