What You Need to Know About Heating an Aluminum Tray in a Microwave

Cooking with aluminum trays in the microwave seems simple enough, but there are a few important things to keep in mind before you heat up that food. In this guide, we'll go over the basics of how to safely use an aluminum tray in your microwave, from lining and pre-heating to using it safely for cooking and reheating meals.

Buy an Appropriately Sized Aluminum Tray.

Before you start cooking with your aluminum tray in the microwave, make sure it is the correct size for your oven. This will help ensure that the food is heated evenly, and also that the tray does not come into contact with any heating elements. Be aware that some ultra-large trays are too big for standard microwaves, so be sure to check before buying.

Check the Heat Settings on Your Microwave.

Before you heat an aluminum tray in your microwave, it’s important to check the heat settings on your appliance. If they are set too high, the tray could become too hot and warp. A low setting will ensure that the food is cooked evenly at a safe temperature. Additionally, some microwaves may have specific heating settings for certain types of dishes, such as frozen foods or even popcorn. Try to use one of these if available.

Preheat Your Aluminum Tray Before Use.

Preheating your aluminum tray is the best way to ensure the food is cooked thoroughly and remains at a safe temperature. Before putting the food in, preheat the tray for 1 to 2 minutes in the microwave. This will give it enough time to absorb heat and will help cook your food evenly. Additionally, make sure you use oven mitts when handling the dish during or after heating as aluminum gets very hot very quickly.

Regularly Clean and Season Your Tray With Oil or Cook Spray.

One of the best ways to ensure your aluminum tray is ready when it comes time to cook is by regularly cleaning and seasoning the surface. After each use, make sure you wash the tray with warm water and soap and sprinkle a light coating of oil or cooking spray onto the surface. Doing this will prevent food from burning or sticking to the tray, as well as adding flavor to your dishes. This can also extend the life of your aluminum trays.

Cool the Tray Before Removing From the Microwave.

Before removing an aluminum tray from the microwave, it’s vitally important that you let the tray cool off. Trying to move the tray while it’s still hot can be dangerous—the heat may damage your skin or cause burns and steam can escape, potentially scalding you. Make sure you give it at least five minutes to cool before going near it again.