Abstract: A microwave ovenable package including a layer of material that will convert a portion of the microwave energy to heat and a layer of paperboard interposed between the energy-converting layer and the food in the package which is to be cooked and browned. The energy-converting layer may be carried on a plastic film, the latter being adhered to the side of the paperboard layer which does not contact the food. An additional layer of paperboard may be used to sandwich the energy-converting layer and the plastic film between layers of paperboard. The heat from the energy-converting layer provides a surface heating effect on the food such as browning, crisping, or singeing. The presence of the paperboard layer between the energy-converting layer and the food prevents contamination of the food which might otherwise occur due to the degradation of the plastic in those cases where the microwave cooking causes the energy-converting layer to reach a temperature higher than intended.