Are you hungry, short on time, and dreaming of creamy, cheesy goodness? Say goodbye to complicated cooking methods and hello to the easiest mac and cheese recipe ever created! This microwave marvel transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal in just 10 minutes, proving that delicious comfort food doesn't need to be time-consuming or complicated. Whether you're a college student, busy professional, or just someone who loves quick and tasty meals, this recipe is about to become your new favorite kitchen lifesaver.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place elbow macaroni and water in a microwave-safe bowl, ensuring the pasta is completely submerged.
- Microwave the pasta on high power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent uneven cooking. Check pasta for tenderness.
- Once pasta is cooked, carefully drain any excess water, leaving a small amount to help create the cheese sauce.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and milk directly into the hot pasta, stirring continuously to help cheese melt smoothly.
- Return the bowl to the microwave and heat for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring every 15 seconds to prevent cheese from burning.
- Remove from microwave and season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly to distribute seasonings.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 1-2 minutes to allow sauce to thicken and cool slightly before serving.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Use a large, microwave-safe bowl to prevent overflow and ensure even cooking.
- Always stir pasta midway through cooking to prevent uneven heating and potential hot spots.
- For extra creaminess, experiment with different cheese blends like adding a bit of mozzarella or parmesan.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more milk to achieve your desired consistency.
- Avoid overcooking the cheese to prevent a grainy texture - gentle, intermittent heating is key.
- For added flavor, try sprinkling in garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs before the final heating.
- Let the mac and cheese rest briefly after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken naturally.
- For a protein boost, consider adding pre-cooked bacon bits or diced ham to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 229kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 35mg
