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Easy Microwave Mac and Cheese: Best Quick College Dinner

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This creamy microwave mac and cheese is ready in 5 minutes with minimal ingredients and no stove needed. Perfect for college dorms, late-night study sessions, or any time you need a comforting, budget-friendly meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole milk preferred, 2% or oat milk work)
  • 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (salted or unsalted)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/4 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cooked bacon bits (optional)
  • Hot sauce to taste (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine pasta and water: Add the 1/2 cup elbow macaroni and 1/2 cup water to a microwave-safe bowl. The water should just cover the pasta; add a tablespoon more if needed.
  2. Microwave for 2 minutes on high power. Stir to prevent sticking.
  3. Microwave for another 1-2 minutes until pasta is tender but still has a slight bite. Test a piece if unsure.
  4. Drain any excess water carefully (bowl will be hot).
  5. Add butter and milk: While pasta is hot, add 1 tablespoon butter and 1/4 cup milk. Stir until butter melts and pasta is coated.
  6. Add cheese: Sprinkle 1/3 cup shredded cheddar over pasta. Stir continuously until cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth (about 30 seconds). Add a splash more milk if too thick.
  7. Season: Add 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder (if using). Stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  8. Let rest for 1 minute: This allows sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.
  9. Stir one last time and enjoy directly from the bowl.

Notes

For best results, use whole milk and shred cheese from a block. Avoid pre-shredded cheese as it doesn’t melt as smoothly. Adjust cooking time based on microwave wattage (700W may need full 4 minutes, 1200W may need only 3 minutes). Let the mac and cheese rest for 1 minute before eating to allow sauce to thicken and prevent burns.

Nutrition

Keywords: microwave mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, college dinner, quick mac and cheese, dorm food, 5 minute mac and cheese, budget-friendly mac and cheese

Find it online: https://cookdella.com/easy-microwave-mac-and-cheese-best-quick-college-dinner/