Easy Creamy Microwave Pasta Mac and Cheese Recipe in 8 Minutes
A quick and comforting microwave mac and cheese recipe that comes together in just 8 minutes using simple ingredients and minimal cleanup.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (90g) elbow macaroni or any small pasta shape
- 1 cup (240ml) water
- 1/4 cup (60ml) whole or 2% milk (almond or oat milk for dairy-free)
- 1/2 cup (56g) shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)
- 1 tablespoon (14g) softened butter
- Pinch of salt, to taste
- Dash of black pepper (optional)
- Optional: garlic powder or smoked paprika
- Optional: frozen peas, cooked bacon bits, spinach, steamed broccoli, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, shredded chicken, pesto
Instructions
- Place 1 cup (90g) of elbow macaroni in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Pour in 1 cup (240ml) of water, just enough to cover the pasta. Stir gently to submerge the pasta.
- Microwave uncovered on high for 4 minutes. Pause and stir well to prevent sticking.
- Microwave for another 3-4 minutes until pasta is tender but not mushy. Watch to avoid boiling over.
- If there’s still water left after cooking, carefully drain most of it but leave about a tablespoon to keep it creamy.
- Add 1 tablespoon (14g) softened butter, 1/4 cup (60ml) milk, and 1/2 cup (56g) shredded cheddar cheese. Stir vigorously until cheese melts and sauce is creamy. Add more milk if too thick.
- Season with a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper. Stir again. Add optional garlic powder or smoked paprika if desired.
- Optional: Microwave for an additional 20-30 seconds for extra melty cheese, watching closely to avoid bubbling over.
- Let cool for a minute before serving.
Notes
Stir pasta halfway through cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even tenderness. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and texture. Adjust milk quantity to achieve desired creaminess. Use a larger bowl to prevent boiling over. Let the dish cool slightly before eating to avoid burns. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese with coconut oil instead of butter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One generous bowl (a
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 13
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 18
Keywords: microwave mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, easy pasta recipe, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food, microwave pasta