Easy Microwave Mug Mac and Cheese Recipe Ready in 5 Minutes
A quick and simple microwave mug mac and cheese recipe that delivers creamy, cheesy comfort food in just 5 minutes with minimal cleanup.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 7 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/3 cup (40g) elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup (120ml) water
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk (whole or 2%, or dairy-free milk if preferred)
- 1/2 cup (50g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon (14g) unsalted butter, softened
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: dash of garlic powder or smoked paprika
Instructions
- Place 1/3 cup (40g) of elbow macaroni into a microwave-safe mug.
- Pour in 1/2 cup (120ml) of water, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged. Stir gently to separate the noodles.
- Microwave on high power for 3 minutes, then stir.
- Continue microwaving in 1-minute bursts, stirring after each, until the pasta is tender but still al dente, about 4-5 minutes total depending on your microwave’s wattage.
- If needed, add a tablespoon more water and microwave for an additional 30 seconds.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon (14g) softened butter, 1/4 cup (60ml) milk, and 1/2 cup (50g) shredded cheddar cheese.
- Stir vigorously until the cheese melts and blends into a smooth sauce coating the pasta.
- Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder or smoked paprika. Stir again.
- Let it sit for 1 minute to thicken slightly, then give it one last stir and enjoy immediately.
Notes
Use a mug with enough capacity to prevent boil-overs. Stir pasta regularly during cooking to prevent clumping and ensure even cooking. Let the pasta rest after microwaving to allow cheese to melt smoothly. Avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents for better melting. Adjust cooking times based on microwave wattage. Add a splash of milk before reheating leftovers to loosen sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One mug serving
- Calories: 350400
- Sugar: 24
- Sodium: 30040
- Fat: 1518
- Saturated Fat: 810
- Carbohydrates: 4045
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 1518
Keywords: microwave mac and cheese, mug mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, easy comfort food, single serving mac and cheese