Leftovers can be a lifesaver when you’re short on time or just don’t feel like cooking. But reheating food improperly can lead to soggy, dry, or unevenly warmed dishes. This article will walk you through the best methods to reheat some of your favorite leftovers, ensuring they taste almost as good as when they were freshly made.
1. How To Reheat Leftover Pizza
In the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place pizza slices on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and crust is crispy.
In the Air Fryer
- Preheat air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
- Place pizza slices in the basket, avoiding overlap.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until hot and crispy.
In the Microwave
- Place a pizza slice on a microwave-safe plate.
- Put a microwave-safe mug of water next to the plate to add moisture.
- Microwave on medium power for 30-45 seconds.
2. How To Reheat Leftover Steak
In the Oven
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Place steak on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Heat for 20-30 minutes, then sear in a hot skillet for 1 minute per side.
In the Air Fryer
- Preheat air fryer to 370°F (188°C).
- Place steak in the basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
In the Microwave
- Place steak on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover with a damp paper towel.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
3. How To Reheat Leftover Fries
In the Oven
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Spread fries on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 5-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
In the Air Fryer
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
- Place fries in the basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
In the Microwave
- Place fries on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towel.
- Microwave in 20-second intervals, checking and stirring between each.
4. How To Reheat Leftover Fried Chicken
In the Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
In the Air Fryer
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place chicken pieces in the basket, avoiding overcrowding.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
In the Microwave
- Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover with a damp paper towel.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
5. How To Reheat Leftover Rice
On the Stovetop
- Add rice and a splash of water to a saucepan.
- Cover and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
In a Rice Cooker
- Add rice and a tablespoon of water per cup of rice.
- Use the “Keep Warm” setting for about 30 minutes, stirring
occasionally.
In the Microwave
- Place rice in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Add a tablespoon of water per cup of rice and cover with a damp paper towel.
- Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
Remember, the key to successfully reheating leftovers is to restore moisture while achieving the right temperature and texture. With these methods, you can enjoy your favorite foods even days after they were first prepared. Always ensure that reheated foods reach a safe internal temperature to prevent foodborne illnesses. Happy reheating!
