Craving a deliciously creamy bowl of mac and cheese but short on time? Look no further! Our "Quick Mac and Cheese for One" is your ultimate solution for a satisfying meal in just 10 minutes. This easy, microwave-friendly recipe delivers all the cheesy goodness you love without the fuss of traditional cooking methods. Perfect for a late-night snack or a quick lunch, this dish will have you saying goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade comfort food. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into this simple yet indulgent recipe!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 serving
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Measure out 1/2 cup of elbow macaroni and 1/2 cup of water into a microwave-safe bowl.
- Ensure the bowl is large enough to prevent boiling over, leaving about 1-2 inches of space at the top.
- Microwave the macaroni and water on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking.
- Check that the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the water. If needed, microwave in additional 30-second intervals.
- Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the hot pasta and stir until completely melted.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the warm pasta and stir until the cheese is fully melted and coats the macaroni.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 1 minute to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately while hot and creamy.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bowl: Use a large microwave-safe bowl to prevent the macaroni from boiling over. A bowl that’s too small can lead to a messy microwave cleanup!
- Stirring is Key: Make sure to stir the macaroni halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent clumping.
- Check for Doneness: After the initial cooking time, check the pasta for tenderness. If it’s not quite there, microwave in 30-second intervals until perfect.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a flavor twist.
- Add Extra Flavor: Enhance your mac and cheese by mixing in cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or spices like garlic powder or paprika for an extra kick.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the mac and cheese to sit for a minute after cooking helps thicken the sauce for that perfect creamy consistency.
- Enjoy Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh, so serve it right away for the ultimate cheesy experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 430kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
