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Easy Creamy Dorm Room Microwave Mac and Cheese Recipe for Quick Comfort Meals

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A quick, creamy, and easy microwave mac and cheese recipe perfect for dorm rooms or small kitchens, delivering comfort food magic in under 10 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ cup dry elbow macaroni (about 56 g)
  • ¾ cup water (about 180 ml)
  • ¼ cup milk (whole, 2%, or plant-based like oat or almond) (about 60 ml)
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 56 g)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: 1/8 tsp garlic powder
  • Optional: Pinch of smoked paprika
  • Optional: Hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Add ½ cup dry elbow macaroni to a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Pour in ¾ cup water, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged.
  3. Microwave on high for 2 minutes, then stir to prevent sticking.
  4. Continue microwaving in 2-minute intervals, stirring each time, until pasta is tender but slightly firm to the bite (about 6-8 minutes total).
  5. Drain excess water, leaving a little to keep pasta moist.
  6. Add ¼ cup milk and ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese to the pasta.
  7. Stir to combine thoroughly, then add a pinch of salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or smoked paprika.
  8. Microwave the mixture for another 30-60 seconds until the cheese melts and sauce is creamy.
  9. Stir again to blend the cheese evenly.
  10. Let the mac and cheese rest for 1-2 minutes to thicken the sauce.
  11. If too thick, stir in a splash more milk.
  12. Serve hot, optionally adding extra cheese or hot sauce.

Notes

Stir the pasta every 2 minutes during cooking to prevent clumping. Use sharp cheddar for better flavor and melting. Let the dish rest after microwaving to thicken the sauce. Adjust water amount to just cover pasta to avoid dryness or mushiness. For dairy-free or gluten-free versions, substitute ingredients accordingly. Add optional spices or mix cheeses for variety.

Nutrition

Keywords: microwave mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, dorm room recipe, quick comfort food, creamy mac and cheese, budget-friendly meal

Find it online: https://emmastirs.com/easy-creamy-dorm-room-microwave-mac-and-cheese-recipe-for-quick-comfort-meals/