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Easy 5-Minute Microwave Mug Mac and Cheese Recipe

easy 5-minute microwave mug mac and cheese - featured image

A quick and creamy microwave mug mac and cheese ready in just 5 minutes. Perfect for late-night cravings, dorm life, or lazy Sundays.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (60g) small pasta shapes (elbow macaroni, small shells, ditalini, or broken spaghetti)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk (whole milk preferred, 2% works)
  • 1/3 cup (40g) shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended, shred from block)
  • 1 tablespoon (14g) unsalted butter
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of black pepper (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
  • Dash of hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Add the pasta and water to your mug. Stir so the pasta is submerged.
  2. Microwave for 2 minutes on high.
  3. Stir the pasta. It should be partially cooked but still firm.
  4. Add the milk, butter, and seasonings. Stir until butter starts to melt.
  5. Microwave for 1 minute on high.
  6. Stir again.
  7. Add the cheese and stir.
  8. Microwave for 30-45 seconds on high.
  9. Stir one last time.
  10. Let it rest for 1 minute before eating.

Notes

Use small pasta shapes for even cooking. Do not skip the water step. Watch for overflow. Shred your own cheese from a block for best melting. Let the mac and cheese rest for 1 minute before eating to allow the sauce to thicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: microwave mac and cheese, mug mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, 5 minute mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, single serving mac and cheese