Description
A quick and easy single-serve mac and cheese made in a microwave-safe mug, delivering creamy, cheesy comfort food in under 10 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/3 cup dry elbow macaroni (about 40g)
- 1/2 cup water (120ml)
- 1/4 cup milk (60ml), whole or 2%
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 50g)
- 1 tablespoon butter (14g), softened
- Pinch of salt, to taste
- Pinch of black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Place 1/3 cup dry elbow macaroni into a microwave-safe mug.
- Pour in 1/2 cup water, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged. Stir gently to separate any clumps.
- Microwave on high for 2 minutes. Remove and stir the pasta to prevent sticking.
- Continue microwaving in 1-minute bursts, stirring after each, until pasta is tender but still slightly firm, about 6-7 minutes total. Add a tablespoon more water if needed.
- Drain excess water if desired by carefully tilting the mug.
- Stir in 1/4 cup milk and 1 tablespoon softened butter until well combined.
- Add 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir lightly and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until cheese is fully melted and sauce is creamy (about 1 to 1.5 minutes).
- Season with a pinch of salt and optional black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Let cool for a minute or two before serving.
Notes
Stir frequently during microwaving to prevent clumping and ensure even cooking. Use room temperature milk and butter for better melting. Adjust cooking time based on microwave power. For a silkier sauce, stir vigorously after adding cheese. Add extra water if pasta looks dry during cooking.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug (single servin
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Protein: 14
Keywords: microwave mac and cheese, single serve mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, easy mug recipe, comfort food