Introduction

Microwave Mac and Cheese in a Mug is a quick and comforting snack perfect for when you’re short on time. Creamy, cheesy, and ready in minutes, it’s a simple solution for satisfying cravings without the fuss.

A white bowl filled with creamy macaroni pasta topped with a layer of melted bright orange cheese and sprinkled with coarse black pepper. The pasta is soft and glossy with a rich white sauce underneath the cheese. The bowl is placed on a light-colored cloth on a white marbled surface, with a shiny silver spoon to the right. In the background, a small white bowl with shredded cheese is slightly blurred. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

½ cup elbow macaroni
½ cup water
¼ cup milk
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a microwave-safe mug, combine the elbow macaroni and ½ cup of water. Microwave on high for 4 minutes, stirring every minute to prevent sticking. Check if the pasta is cooked and most of the water is absorbed; add a little more water if necessary to cook fully.
Step 2: Stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Microwave for another 30 to 60 seconds until the cheese melts. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
Step 3: Let the mug sit for a minute to allow the mac and cheese to thicken slightly before enjoying your creamy treat.

Tips & Variations

Use sharp cheddar for a more intense cheese flavor or mix cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan for extra creaminess.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
For a richer texture, substitute half of the milk with cream or evaporated milk.
If your mug is small, use a slightly larger one to avoid overflow as the pasta cooks.

Storage

Microwave mac and cheese in a mug is best enjoyed immediately but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Add a splash of milk if it seems too thick after reheating.

How to Serve

A white cup filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, showing two layers of soft, pale elbow macaroni covered with a smooth, yellow-orange melted cheese sauce, topped with a sprinkle of black pepper. The cup sits on a white cloth next to a shiny silver spoon. In the background, a white bowl with shredded yellow cheese and a clear glass of water are placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like shells or rotini work well. Adjust the cooking time as needed, since different shapes and sizes cook at different rates.

What if my mac and cheese is too dry?

Add a little more water during cooking or a splash of milk before reheating to loosen the texture. Stir well to distribute moisture evenly.

Microwave Mac and Cheese in a Mug Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 86 reviews

This quick and easy Microwave Mac and Cheese in a Mug recipe is perfect for a comforting snack or a simple meal. Ready in just a few minutes, it combines tender elbow macaroni with creamy cheddar cheese, all made conveniently in your microwave.

Author: Kai
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 7 minutes
Yield: 1 serving 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Microwaving
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Macaroni and Cooking Liquid

½ cup elbow macaroni
½ cup water

Cheese Mixture

¼ cup milk
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni: In a microwave-safe mug, combine the elbow macaroni and ½ cup water. Microwave on high for 4 minutes, stirring every minute to ensure even cooking and to prevent the macaroni from sticking. Continue until the pasta is tender and most of the water is absorbed. If necessary, add a little extra water during cooking to fully cook the pasta.
Add Cheese Mixture: Stir in ¼ cup milk, ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder into the cooked macaroni.
Microwave to Melt Cheese: Microwave the mixture for 30 to 60 seconds until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
Let it Set: Allow the mac and cheese to sit for one minute to thicken and develop flavor before eating.

Notes

Stirring every minute during the initial microwave cooking helps evenly cook the pasta and prevents it from drying out.
Adjust the water quantity if the macaroni is not fully cooked; a splash more water can help.
Use sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor or try mixing different cheeses for variety.
Add-ins like cooked bacon bits, chopped herbs, or a pinch of paprika can enhance this simple dish.
Make sure to use a large enough mug to prevent boiling over during microwaving.

Keywords: microwave mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, mug recipes, quick snacks, cheddar mac and cheese