Mixing bowls are one item in the kitchen that home chefs reach for over and over, and the best microwavable mixing bowls are durable and versatile enough for everything from cooking to reheating to serving. When it comes to a bowl you can safely microwave, considering the material is key. And while stainless steel bowls have their perks, they’re typically not microwavable. Instead, consider these materials:
- Glass: With glass, there are two primary types to consider when it comes to microwavable mixing bowls. Soda-lime glass is the most common and accounts for about 90% of glass products in the world. It tends to be more affordable but is not the most durable type out there. So while it can go into the microwave, for extra security, look for borosilicate glass, which has a higher resistance to temperature changes than soda-lime glass and therefore is less likely to shatter. But, being more expensive to manufacture, borosilicate glass is usually more expensive to buy, too.
- Ceramic: Aesthetically pleasing and durable, ceramic bowls are typically safe for the microwave as long as they don't have metal accents.
- Plastic: While not all plastics are safe to put in the microwave, polypropylene is a good choice. It's a more cost-effective option for mixing bowls than glass or ceramic. However, if you're concerned about chemicals leaching into your food, it might be best to stick with ceramic and glass.
Now that you know what to look for, scroll on for a few great options on Amazon.
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1The Overall Best Glass Mixing Bowl
Because this glass mixing bowl is made from extra-durable borosilicate glass, not only can it go into the microwave, it can also go from the freezer directly into the oven without cracking under the temperature change. The streamlined look allows it to easily transition from a humble mixing bowl to an elegant serving dish. The generous 2.6-quart size of this bowl allows users to tackle a variety of jobs, but it's also available in 0.9-, 1.8-, and 3.6-quart sizes.
Plus, this bowl is dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. “Perfect for microwave and oven. But also looks great on the dinner table with a large mixed salad for dinner!” one user wrote. “No regrets with this multipurpose bowl.”
2This Colorful Plastic Mixing Bowl Set
While plastic mixing bowls aren’t always known for their ability to stand up to microwaves, this affordable bowl set is designed to handle higher heats, making it microwave-safe, according to the brand. Plus, it's also melamine- and BPA-free. With this four-piece set, you'll get four different bowl sizes — 2-quart, 3.5-quart, 5-quart, and 7-quart — all of which nest together for easy storage. Another nice perk is that the bowls have silicone on the bottom to keep them from slipping around on your counter.
In addition to the microwave, the bowls are also safe for the dishwasher when placed on the top rack. They are a popular choice on Amazon, with a 4.6-star rating overall. One reviewer wrote: "Ok, who raves about mixing bowls? Apparently now I do! I never really gave mixing bowls much thought but these are seriously amazing. They are light weight but sturdy and they have a little ring on the bottom to help them stay put on the counter. They clean so well and are somehow the perfect shape."
3These High-Sided Glass Bowls That Won’t Make A Mess
Save yourself some cleanup time by opting for a high-sided mixing bowl. With its tapered design, this glass mixing bowl comfortably rests against the palm of your hand for a better grip while mixing, and it’s available in multiple sizes ranging from 1 to 4 quarts. With two large bowls for less than $20 each, they're also a pretty good deal. However, be aware that these bowls are made from soda-lime glass, which isn't as strong as those made from borosilicate glass.
But plenty of shoppers haven't had any problems. "This is a set of two bowls that are perfect for making oatmeal in the microwave. The sides are high and sloped so the oatmeal climbs the sides without bubbling over," one customer wrote. They're also dishwasher safe.
4A Set Of Glass Mixing Bowls With Lids
This four-piece mixing bowl set comes with lids for easy storage and range in size from 3 cups to 4.5 quarts. You get a pretty ribbed design on the outside, but they are smooth on the inside for easier mixing. And in addition to being microwave safe, you can put the bowls in the dishwasher and freezer, too.
Pyrex is a household name when it comes to glassware. However, while Pyrex mixing bowls used to be made with durable borosilicate glass, they are now made with cheaper soda-lime glass, which is more prone to shattering. But with a 4.7-star rating, most customers have been happy with this set.
5A Beautiful Ceramic Mixing Bowl Set
These beautiful ceramic mixing bowls are made with durable lead-free, AB-grade porcelain. They're chip-resistant and also have a slight curve to the body, offering a better grip while in use. These ceramic mixing bowls come in a set ranging in size from 0.375 to 2 quarts, and they are safe to use in the dishwasher, microwave, oven, and freezer.
"This is the second round of bowls we've purchased, not because they've broken, because we use them so much and needed another set! Good size variation, microwave and dishwasher safe," one customer wrote. However, while these bowls are quite durable, the manufacturer warns that rapid temperature changes can cause the bowls to fail, and users should use caution, never moving a bowl directly from the refrigerator to a hot oven.
6An Affordable 10-Piece Glass Set
Made with soda-lime glass that has been specially tempered to make it stronger, these Duralex glass mixing bowls are manufactured to be durable, impact-resistant, and able to withstand temperature changes of up to 392 degrees Fahrenheit. Plus, they're a great deal. This 10-piece set of bowls range in size from an ounce to 3.5 quarts, and they’re safe to put in the dishwasher, fridge, and microwave. With a 4.8-star rating, they're a fan favorite.
One customer wrote: “I have taken them straight from the fridge into the microwave, and there has never been an issue. I love the different sizes and often use 3 or 4 while cooking a single meal. They are easy to clean (throw them in the dishwasher), and they are easy to store.”
