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Creamy Garlic Mug Pasta

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A quick and easy creamy garlic pasta cooked entirely in a mug using the microwave, perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • ¼ cup uncooked small pasta shapes (elbow macaroni, mini shells, or broken spaghetti)
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced or grated
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream or whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, fresh parsley or basil, pre-cooked protein (rotisserie chicken or canned tuna)

Instructions

  1. Add ¼ cup uncooked pasta to a microwave-safe mug. Pour in about ½ cup water, enough to just cover the pasta.
  2. Microwave on high for 2 minutes, then stir the pasta to separate any clumps. Microwave for another 2 minutes. If pasta is still firm, microwave in 30-second bursts until al dente, stirring each time.
  3. Carefully remove the mug and stir in the minced garlic and butter. The residual heat will soften the garlic and melt the butter.
  4. Add 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or whole milk) and 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese. Stir vigorously until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta. Season with salt and pepper. Add a splash more milk if sauce is too thick.
  5. Optionally, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or fresh herbs. Stir once more and let sit for a minute to thicken.

Notes

Stirring the pasta halfway through cooking is crucial to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. Adjust water amount to cover pasta but not too much to dilute sauce. For dairy-free, substitute cream with coconut milk and Parmesan with vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy garlic mug pasta, quick dinner, microwave pasta, easy pasta recipe, weeknight dinner, one mug meal

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/creamy-garlic-mug-pasta-recipe-easy-5-minute-dinner-for-busy-weeknights/