There are many dishes that just lend themselves perfectly to being microwaved. And Mac and Cheese is one of them!
Ladies and gentlemen! You’ll be happy to know that after a deep dive into the benefits or lack thereof of microwaving foods versus cooking them–it turns out that microwaving foods does not impair the nutrient quality of them one iota. So enjoy your modern conveniences to the hilt and know your family will be well.
Macaroni and cheese is one dish that defies all the rules of cooking when it comes to microwaving and actually tastes more delicious when cooked this way. Generally, pastas do not cook well in the microwave. But that blanket of cheddar sauce acts as just that—a protective layer over the macaroni, which is a more durable, heartier kind of noodle able to withstand the intense heat of the microwave.
You’ll want to bookmark this recipe, especially if your kids love mac and cheese like mine do. Trust me, you’ll have it memorized in no time. It’s going to become your favorite mac and cheese recipe fast—it’s not only the cheesiest, creamiest mac and cheese you’ve ever had, it’s super fast and easy, too!
My Secret for Perfect Mac and Cheese In the Microwave
You might not know this but you can steam things in the microwave even if you don’t have a “Steam” setting. And you need only a bit of water to accomplish this.
Microwave Macaroni and Cheese thrives on steam. This is great to know when it comes time to reheat the mac and cheese. Simply cover your bowl of pasta with a wet towel or paper towel; the water from said towel will create steam, which keeps your pasta from drying out in the microwave.
How do I store this mac and cheese?
Microwave Mac and Cheese is very forgiving, which is to say, it recovers from storage easily, with just as much taste as it had when you originally made it. You can freeze it for up to three months and refrigerate it for up to four days.
How can I make this extra creamy?
Try heavy cream, sour cream, or indulgent cheesesu002du002dmelting cheeses like Gouda and Fontina work especially well.
How can I make this spicy?
Try hot sauce! It tastes great against the cheese and macaroni. So does a bit of barbecue sauce! Also try spicy sausage, green chilies, or some hot pepper cheese mixed in!
Serving Suggestions
Serve with my Best Tuna Salad, Really! It can be on the table in minutes and your kids will love it! Or if you have a bit more time, your family will looooove my Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps. I mean, LOVE.
Microwave Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dry macaroni pasta
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk of choice
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter optional
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese optional
Instructions
- Start by combining the pasta and water in a large microwave-safe bowl to prevent spills.
- Microwave the mixture for 4-5 minutes until the pasta is nearly tender.
- Drain excess water, then add milk, cheese, salt, and optional butter and cream cheese.
- Microwave again for 1 1/2 minutes until everything is creamy and well combined.
- Give it a good stir, taste for seasoning, and enjoy your homemade mac and cheese!
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