Cookware for use in a microwave oven

An article of cookware, comprising:

• a) a bottom;
• b) a sidewall extending upward from the bottom to terminate at a rim, wherein the bottom, the sidewall, and the rim define an interior volume for one or more food items, wherein the sidewall has an inverted frustoconical shape with an upper portion, and a lower portion positioned below the upper portion, the upper portion having an outward tilt of less than about 10 degrees from a vertical line, the lower portion having an outward tilt that is at least about 15 degrees greater than the outward tilt of the upper portion;
• and
• c) a thermally insulating pad that is positioned about a circumference of the sidewall.

An article of cookware, comprising:

• a) a substantially horizontal bottom having an interior surface and an opposing exterior surface;
• b) a sidewall extending upward from the bottom to terminate at a rim, wherein the bottom, the sidewall, and the rim define an interior volume for one or more food items, wherein the sidewall has an inverted frustoconical shape with an upper portion and a lower portion positioned below the upper portion, the upper portion having an outward tilt of less than about 10 degrees from a vertical direction, the lower portion having an outward tilt that is at least about 15 degrees greater than the outward tilt of the upper portion;
• and
• c) one or more handles or a laterally extending flange.