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Creamy Microwave Mug Mac and Cheese

creamy microwave mug mac and cheese - featured image

A quick and easy creamy mac and cheese made in a microwave-safe mug in just 3 minutes, perfect for solo meals or late-night cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/3 cup dry elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Pinch of salt
  • Dash of black pepper (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Add the dry macaroni and water to your microwave-safe mug. Stir lightly to submerge pasta in water.
  2. Microwave on high for 2 minutes. Carefully remove and stir the pasta to prevent sticking. If the water has mostly evaporated, add a splash more.
  3. Microwave again for 1-2 minutes. Check the pasta texture; it should be tender but not mushy. If still too firm, microwave in 30-second increments, adding a little water if needed.
  4. Drain any excess water carefully if the pasta is too wet, leaving a tiny bit for creaminess.
  5. Add butter, milk, shredded cheddar, salt, pepper, and mustard powder to the mug. Stir vigorously until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce coating the pasta evenly.
  6. Microwave for an additional 20-30 seconds if the cheese hasn’t fully melted. Stir again before serving.

Notes

Stir halfway through cooking to prevent unevenly cooked pasta and splatter. Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar for best melting and flavor. Cover mug loosely with a microwave-safe plate or paper towel to reduce splatter. Add small increments of water if pasta looks dry. Optional additions include cream cheese, heavy cream, veggies, or spices for customization.

Nutrition

Keywords: microwave mac and cheese, mug mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, comfort food, solo meal, cheesy pasta