Microwave Mac and Cheese Mug (Printable Version)

Single-serve mac with cheddar, made fast in a mug. Ideal for comfort cravings and quick meals.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 1/2 cup elbow macaroni (approximately 50 g)
02 - 1/2 cup water
03 - Pinch of salt

→ Cheese Sauce

04 - 1/4 cup whole milk or 2% milk
05 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (approximately 50 g)
06 - 1 tablespoon cream cheese (optional, for creaminess)
07 - 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Place elbow macaroni, water, and a pinch of salt into a large microwave-safe mug with a minimum 12 oz capacity.
02 - Microwave on high for 3 to 4 minutes, pausing every minute to stir and monitor pasta doneness. Add a small splash of water if necessary to prevent drying.
03 - Add milk, shredded cheddar, cream cheese if using, and ground black pepper to the mug. Stir to distribute evenly.
04 - Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir thoroughly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
05 - Allow the mac and cheese to stand for 1 minute in the mug before serving to finish setting.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Fast no-boil prep for instant satisfaction
  • Uses kitchen staples you already have
  • Customizable for extra flavor or diet needs
  • Perfect when you want mac and cheese without leftovers or hassle
02 -
  • One mug one meal means easy cleanup
  • You can swap cheese types for different flavors
  • This recipe is perfect for late-night study sessions
  • If you want ultra-creamy sauce do not skip the cream cheese
03 -
  • Stir often as the pasta cooks in the microwave to prevent sticking or clumping in the mug
  • Use freshly grated cheese to create the creamiest smoothest sauce
  • If you want more flavor try melting in a pinch of garlic powder or your favorite dried herbs
  • Do not skip the rest time at the end letting the mac and cheese sit for a minute in the hot mug keeps the sauce thick and silky. I have learned through trial and error that this last step makes all the difference for spoonable creamy perfection.
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