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Easy 5-Minute Microwave Mac and Cheese: Best Quick Recipe

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This creamy, gooey microwave mac and cheese is ready in just 5 minutes using simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights, lazy days, or when you need a comforting meal fast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup elbow macaroni, dry
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1/3 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon mustard powder
  • Pinch of black pepper, freshly ground
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Optional: Pinch of paprika
  • Optional: Few dashes hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Add the 1/2 cup dry elbow macaroni and 1/2 cup water to a microwave-safe bowl. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged. Microwave on high for 2 minutes (or 2 minutes 30 seconds for 900-watt microwaves).
  2. Carefully remove the bowl and stir the pasta. The water should be mostly absorbed, and the pasta should be tender but still slightly firm. If too hard, microwave for another 30 seconds.
  3. Immediately add the 1 tablespoon butter and 1/4 cup milk to the hot pasta. Stir until the butter is completely melted.
  4. Sprinkle the 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon mustard powder, and a pinch of black pepper over the pasta. Stir vigorously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Add a splash more milk if too thick.
  5. Microwave the mixture on high for 30 seconds. Stir again until silky and smooth.
  6. Let the mac and cheese rest for 1 minute before serving to allow the sauce to set and flavors to meld.
  7. Give it one final stir, then serve immediately. Add optional toppings like paprika or hot sauce if desired.

Notes

Shred your own cheese for the smoothest sauce. Mustard powder enhances cheese flavor without adding mustard taste. Adjust cooking time based on microwave wattage. For best results, stir between each step.

Nutrition

Keywords: microwave mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, 5 minute mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, comfort food, quick dinner

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/easy-5-minute-microwave-mac-and-cheese-best-quick-recipe/