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Easy 5-Minute Microwave Mac and Cheese in a Mug

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A quick and creamy microwave mac and cheese made in a mug in under 5 minutes. Perfect for late-night cravings or a fast comfort food fix with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup elbow macaroni (or small pasta like ditalini or small shells)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup whole milk (2% works, but avoid skim)
  • 1/3 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (preferably freshly shredded)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (cut into small cubes)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of garlic powder (optional)
  • Pinch of paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Add the 1/2 cup of elbow macaroni and 1/2 cup of water to a large microwave-safe mug (12 oz or bigger). Make sure the water covers the pasta. Microwave on high for 2 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent boil-over; pause if needed.
  2. Carefully remove the mug from the microwave and drain any remaining water. The pasta should be mostly tender but still al dente.
  3. Pour the 1/4 cup of whole milk over the hot pasta and add the 1 tablespoon of cubed unsalted butter. Stir briefly.
  4. Return the mug to the microwave and cook for another 30 seconds until the milk and butter are warm and slightly bubbly.
  5. Remove the mug and immediately add the 1/3 cup of shredded cheddar, a pinch of salt, a pinch of garlic powder, and a pinch of paprika. Stir vigorously for 20-30 seconds until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
  6. Let the mug sit on the counter for 1 minute to allow the sauce to thicken.
  7. Enjoy directly from the mug.

Notes

For the creamiest result, shred cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents. Watch the pasta during the first microwave step to prevent boil-over. Letting the mac and cheese rest for 1 minute is essential for a thick, luscious sauce. If sauce is too thick after resting, stir in a splash of milk; if too thin, microwave for 10 more seconds and stir.

Nutrition

Keywords: microwave mac and cheese, mug mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, 5 minute mac and cheese, single serving mac and cheese

Find it online: https://cooksybite.com/easy-5-minute-microwave-mac-and-cheese-in-a-mug/