Prepare sauces and gravies with a medium consistency. Add low-fat cheese and other toppings near the end of cooking to keep the top from becoming tough or soggy. Mozzarella and Monterey Jack cheeses are good choices to use in the microwave. Substitute crushed, unseasoned croutons for dry breadcrumbs as topping on casseroles since they will absorb less moisture and remain crisper. Reduce leavening agents and increase liquids by one-fourth when baking cakes.
Baked goods rise more and lose more moisture when cooked in the microwave.
Fill pans no more than half full. To create a crusty look on baked items, oil pans with an acceptable vegetable oil and add ground nuts or crumbs.