Creamy Microwave Mug Mac and Cheese
A quick and easy microwave mug mac and cheese recipe that delivers creamy, comforting cheesy goodness in under 10 minutes with 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
- ¼ cup (30g) dry elbow macaroni
- ½ cup (120ml) water
- ¼ cup (60ml) milk (whole or 2%, or dairy-free like almond or oat)
- ½ cup (56g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon (14g) unsalted softened butter
- Pinch of salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: dash of garlic powder or smoked paprika
- Optional: spoonful of cream cheese
Instructions
- Place ¼ cup dry elbow macaroni in a microwave-safe mug.
- Pour in ½ cup water, ensuring pasta is mostly submerged but not overflowing. Stir gently.
- Microwave on high for 2 minutes. Carefully remove and stir the pasta.
- Microwave for another 2 to 3 minutes until pasta is tender but slightly firm, checking every 30 seconds after 4 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Carefully drain any excess water from the mug.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon softened butter, ¼ cup milk, and ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese until cheese melts and sauce is creamy. Microwave an additional 20 seconds if needed.
- Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Optionally, add garlic powder or smoked paprika and stir.
- Let the mug sit for 1-2 minutes to thicken the sauce and meld flavors. Stir once more and serve.
Notes
Use a deep mug to avoid boil-overs. Stir halfway through cooking to prevent clumping. Let the mug sit after microwaving for creamier texture. If cheese doesn’t melt smoothly, add a splash more milk or a spoonful of cream cheese. Microwave power varies, so watch pasta closely. For a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs and microwave for an extra 20 seconds.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 12
Keywords: microwave mac and cheese, mug mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, easy comfort food, cheesy mug meal