I was just staring at the microwave with a packet of Hot Pocket in hand wondering about the appropriate cook time. Luckily I found the best time for cooking Hot pockets in a microwave to prevent it from being too soggy or burnt. Let’s dive in.
Hot Pocket Cook Time Microwave
Different types of hot pockets have different cooking times. The time depends on the microwave’s wattage and the number of sandwiches being cooked.
For an 1100-watt microwave, Cook one sandwich for 1 minute and 50 seconds, or two sandwiches for 3 minutes and 30 seconds. For a Lower-wattage microwave, cook one sandwich for 3 minutes and 15 seconds.
How to Cook a Hot Pocket in a Microwave
1. Unwrap Your Hot Pocket
Take your Hot Pocket out of its plastic wrapper. Never microwave the plastic, as it can melt or release harmful chemicals into your food.
2. Pierce the Top
Use a fork to poke several holes in the top of the Hot Pocket. This allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing the pocket from bursting.
3. Place on a Microwave-Safe Dish
Lay the Hot Pocket on a microwave-safe plate or directly on the microwave turntable if it’s flat enough.
4. Microwave on High
For a 1100-watt Microwave:
- Cook on high for 2 minutes.
For a 700-watt Microwave:
- Cook on high for about 3 minutes and 15 seconds.
Note: Always check the specific instructions on the Hot Pocket packaging as they can vary by flavor or style.
5. Flip and Cook More
After the initial cooking time, carefully flip the Hot Pocket over using a utensil (it will be hot!). Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes on high. This ensures even heating.
6. Let it Rest
Allow the Hot Pocket to sit for 2 minutes after microwaving. This resting period helps distribute the heat evenly, ensuring no cold spots remain.
7. Check for Doneness
The Hot Pocket should have a golden, crispy crust. If it’s not cooked to your satisfaction, you can microwave it in additional 30-second increments but watch closely to avoid overcooking.
8. Enjoy Safely
Be careful when biting into it; the filling can be very hot. Let it cool a bit if necessary.
Tips for the Perfect Hot Pocket in a Microwave:
- Not all microwaves are the same. If your first attempt isn’t perfect, adjust the time in small increments for future attempts.
- Covering the Hot Pocket with a paper towel can help absorb excess moisture, keeping the crust crispier.
- Overcooked Hot Pockets can result in a hard crust and dried-out filling.
- For an even crisper texture, after microwaving, you can briefly cook it in a toaster oven or air fryer for an additional minute or two.
Cook time for different types of hot pockets.
| Hot pocket type | Microwave cooking time (1100 watt) | Microwave cooking time (lower wattage) | Cooling time |
| CHICKEN BACON RANCH – CRISPY BUTTERY CRUST | 2 minutes | About 3 minutes | 2 minutes |
| FOUR CHEESE PIZZA – GARLIC BUTTERY CRUST | 1:50 minutes | 2:50 minutes | 2 minutes |
| HAM & CHEDDAR – CRISPY BUTTERY CRUST | 1:50 minutes | Adjust for wattage | 2 minutes |
| HAM & CHEESE – CROISSANT CRUST | 2 minutes | Adjust for wattage | 2 minutes |
| MEATBALLS & MOZZARELLA – GARLIC BUTTERY CRUST | 1:50 minutes | 2:50 minutes | 2 minutes |
| PEPPERONI PIZZA – CRISPY CRUST | 2 minutes | Up to 3 minutes | 2 minutes |
| PEPPERONI PIZZA – GARLIC BUTTERY CRUST | 2 minutes | Up to 3 minutes | 2 minutes |
| PHILLY STEAK & CHEESE – SEASONED CRUST | 1:50 minutes | Adjust for wattage | 2 minutes |
| STEAK & CHEDDAR – CRISPY BUTTERY CRUST | 1:50 minutes | Adjust for wattage | 2 minutes |
| HOT ONES – SPICY GARLIC CHICKEN & BACON | 2 minutes | Adjust for wattage | 2 minutes |
| HOT ONES – GREEN CHILE CHEESESTEAK | 2 minutes | Adjust for wattage | 2 minutes |
| HOT ONES – HOT HABANERO PEPPERONI & SAUSAGE | 2 minutes | Adjust for wattage | 2 minutes |
| HOT ONES – FIERY HOT PEPPERONI | 2 minutes | Adjust for wattage | 2 minutes |
| ALL HOT POCKETS (General Rule) | 2 minutes | 3 minutes | 2 minutes |
Alternative ways of cooking Hot pockets
Baking in an Oven
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Hot Pockets
- Remove the Hot Pockets from their packaging.
- Place them on a baking sheet, leaving some space between each for even cooking.
3. Bake Time
- For Crispy Crust or Buttery Crust: Bake for about 28-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Croissant Crust: Bake for around 20-22 minutes.
4. Cooling
- Let the Hot Pockets cool for about 2 minutes after baking. This helps the filling set and prevents burns from hot steam or filling.
5. Check for Doneness
- The crust should be golden and crispy, not burnt. If unsure, you can always cut one open to check.
Using an Air Fryer:
1. Preheat Air Fryer
- If your air fryer requires preheating, do so at 360°F (182°C) for about 3 minutes.
2. Prepare the Hot Pockets
- Unwrap the Hot Pockets from their packaging.
- Place them in the air fryer basket. You might not need to flip them if your air fryer cooks evenly but check on them halfway through for even browning.
3. Cook Time
- Most Hot Pockets will require about 13-15 minutes in the air fryer at 360°F. However, this can vary slightly depending on your air fryer’s model and the type of Hot Pocket (crispy vs. buttery crust).
- For a crisper crust, you might want to extend the time by a minute or two but watch closely to avoid overcooking.
4. Cooling
- Allow them to cool for 2 minutes after cooking.
5. Check for Doneness
- Look for a golden, crispy crust. Air fryers can give a particularly crisp result, which many people prefer.
What Makes Hot Pockets So Good
1. Made with 100% Real Cheese
Using 100% real cheese means every bite of a Hot Pocket delivers a genuine, rich cheese flavor that’s hard to replicate with artificial alternatives. The cheese melts beautifully, providing a gooey, satisfying texture.
2. 6g Protein per Sandwich
With 6 grams of protein in each sandwich, Hot Pockets offers a quick way to boost your protein intake, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and maintaining fullness longer after eating.
3. Good Source of Protein
The label “Good Source of Protein” on Hot Pockets taps into the health-conscious consumer market, promoting the product as more than just a fast food option but a somewhat nutritious choice.
4. Convenience and Quick Preparation
They can be cooked in a microwave in just minutes, making them ideal for busy lifestyles, late-night study sessions, or quick lunches. This attribute, combined with the good quality ingredients, elevates the overall appeal.
5. Versatility and Variety
Hot Pockets come in numerous varieties, from classic pepperoni pizza to more adventurous options like the Hot Ones series. This variety ensures that there’s something for everyone’s taste preference, making Hot Pockets not only a go-to comfort food but also an exciting choice for trying new flavors.
Can the HOT POCKETS® crisping sleeve be reused?
The HOT POCKETS® crisping sleeve is designed for single use. Made from a special material that helps to crisp the crust while cooking, these sleeves are not meant to be reused due to potential degradation after initial use.
Using a sleeve more than once can lead to less effective crisping, and there’s also a risk that the material might start to break down or become less safe for food contact.
However, if you’re looking for sustainability, you might consider alternatives like using a reusable silicone baking mat or a perforated aluminum foil sheet for similar crisping effects in the oven.
How long do you cook HOT POCKETS® sandwiches in the oven?
When baking HOT POCKETS® sandwiches in the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Typically, a crispy or buttery crust Hot Pocket requires about 28 to 30 minutes to cook.
If you’re baking a Hot Pocket with a croissant crust, you might need slightly less time, around 20 to 22 minutes.
However, always check the specific instructions on the Hot Pocket’s packaging, as cooking times can vary based on the type and flavor of the sandwich.
Always allow the sandwich to cool for about 2 minutes after baking to ensure even heat distribution and to prevent burns.
How long do HOT POCKETS® sandwiches stay good in the freezer?
HOT POCKETS® sandwiches are designed to be stored in the freezer and can remain good for about 18 to 24 months if kept at 0°F (-18°C) or below.
This shelf life can vary slightly depending on the specific product and how well they are stored. It’s always best to check the “Best By” or expiration date on the package to ensure you consume them within their optimal quality period.
Remember, freezer burn can affect the taste and texture if not stored properly, so good freezer practices help maintain quality.
How long are HOT POCKETS® sandwiches good for in the fridge?
Once you’ve moved HOT POCKETS® sandwiches from the freezer to the fridge for thawing, they should be consumed within 3 to 5 days.
Thawing in the refrigerator is the safest method as it keeps the sandwich at a consistent, safe temperature.
However, like with any perishable food, after thawing, the quality and safety degrade over time, so adhering to this timeframe helps maintain both the taste and safety of the product.
Is it safe to eat a HOT POCKETS® sandwich item once it is thawed?
It’s not recommended to eat a HOT POCKETS® sandwich after it has been thawed and left at room temperature for any significant period.
If you thaw a Hot Pocket in the refrigerator, it should be safe to eat provided you cook it immediately or within the recommended storage time in the fridge.
However, if a thawed Hot Pocket has been at room temperature for more than 2 hours, there’s a risk of bacterial growth, making it unsafe to eat.
Always cook or reheat thawed Hot Pockets thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety.
What causes ice crystals to form on top of the HOT POCKETS® sandwich?
Ice crystals form on HOT POCKETS® sandwiches primarily due to freezer burn or exposure to air within the freezer.
This happens when the moisture in the sandwich evaporates and refreezes on the surface of the product.
Factors contributing to this include improper sealing of the package, temperature fluctuations in the freezer, or leaving the Hot Pockets in the freezer for too long.
To minimize this, ensure the packaging is well-sealed, maintain a consistent freezer temperature, and consume or rotate your stock of frozen foods regularly.
FAQs
Where can I buy HOT POCKETS® brand sandwiches?
HOT POCKETS® brand sandwiches are widely available at most major supermarkets, grocery stores, and discount retailers in the frozen food section. You can also find them online through various e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and Target.
Is there a list of HOT POCKETS® sandwich flavors?
Yes, there is a variety of flavors available, including but not limited to: Pepperoni Pizza, Four Cheese Pizza, Hickory Ham & Cheddar, Chicken Bacon Ranch, Philly Steak & Cheese, Meatballs & Mozzarella, and the Hot Ones series like Spicy Garlic Chicken & Bacon. For the most current list, check the official HOT POCKETS® website or product pages on retail sites.
How many grams of protein are in a HOT POCKETS® sandwich?
The amount of protein can vary by flavor, but on average, a HOT POCKETS® sandwich contains about 6 to 12 grams of protein. For exact amounts, check the nutritional information on the specific product’s packaging.
Do HOT POCKETS® sandwiches contain common food allergens?
HOT POCKETS® sandwiches may contain common allergens like wheat, milk, soy, and eggs, depending on the flavor. Some products might also contain nuts or meat products. Always check the ingredient list and allergen information on the packaging for each specific flavor.
What HOT POCKETS® crusts are available?
HOT POCKETS® offers several types of crusts including Crispy Crust, Garlic Buttery Crust, Croissant Crust, and Seasoned Crust. The availability of these crust types can vary with different sandwich flavors.
Can you cook HOT POCKETS® sandwiches in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook HOT POCKETS® sandwiches in an air fryer. Typically, cook them at 360°F for about 13-15 minutes, although this can vary based on your air fryer’s model. Always check for doneness to ensure the crust is crispy and the interior is hot.
How long do I cook my HOT POCKETS® sandwich for?
In a microwave, cook for about 2 minutes for a 1100-watt microwave (adjust for lower wattage). In an oven, bake at 350°F for 28-30 minutes for crispy or buttery crust, or 20-22 minutes for croissant crust. Exact times can vary, so refer to the package instructions.
How long do I microwave two HOT POCKETS® sandwiches?
For two HOT POCKETS® sandwiches in a microwave, cook on HIGH for about 3 to 4 minutes in a 1100-watt microwave, then let them sit for 2 minutes. Adjust time for lower wattage microwaves.
Can I cook my HOT POCKET® sandwich in a toaster? Why can’t I cook my Hot Pocket sandwich in a toaster?
No, you should not cook a HOT POCKETS® sandwich in a regular toaster. The filling can leak out, causing a potential fire hazard or mess, and the sandwich could get stuck. Toasters are not designed for cooking items with fillings.
Can I cook my HOT POCKETS® sandwich in a convection oven? Why can’t I cook my HOT POCKETS® sandwich in a convection oven?
You can cook HOT POCKETS® in a convection oven, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and possibly temperature due to the faster cooking nature of convection ovens. Lower the temperature by about 25 degrees Fahrenheit and reduce the cooking time by 25%. You can’t simply use regular oven instructions because convection ovens cook food more quickly and evenly.
Can I grill my HOT POCKETS® sandwich?
While not traditional, you can grill a HOT POCKETS® sandwich if you wrap it in foil to prevent the filling from leaking out. Use indirect heat and monitor closely to avoid burning. Direct grilling isn’t recommended due to the risk of the filling leaking.
How do I cool a HOT POCKETS® sandwich?
After cooking, let your HOT POCKETS® sandwich sit for about 2 minutes. This cooling period ensures the heat is distributed evenly and cools the sandwich enough to handle safely. Do not rush this step as the filling can be extremely hot.
Conclusion
Different types of hot pockets have different cooking times. The time depends on the microwave’s wattage and the number of sandwiches being cooked.
For an 1100-watt microwave, Cook one sandwich for 1 minute and 50 seconds, or two sandwiches for 3 minutes and 30 seconds. For a Lower-wattage microwave, cook one sandwich for 3 minutes and 15 seconds.