Save A creamy, comforting single-serve macaroni and cheese made in minutes using just your microwave—perfect for a quick snack or meal.
I first tried mug mac & cheese during a busy college semester when time was tight and cravings ran high. It quickly became my go-to solution on nights when I wanted something warm and cheesy without much fuss.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 1/2 cup (50 g) elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- Liquid: 1/2 cup (120 ml) water, 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk (whole or 2%)
- Cheese & Seasonings: 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 tsp Dijon mustard (optional), 1/8 tsp garlic powder (optional), Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Topping (optional): 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, Pinch of smoked paprika
Instructions
- Combine pasta & water:
- Place the macaroni and water in a large microwave-safe mug (at least 12 oz/350 ml capacity). Stir to combine.
- Microwave & stir:
- Microwave on high for 2–3 minutes. Stir, then continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until pasta is al dente and most of the water is absorbed (total 4–5 minutes). Watch to prevent overflow.
- Add remaining ingredients:
- Add milk, shredded cheddar, mustard, and garlic powder. Stir well.
- Finish microwaving:
- Microwave for another 30–40 seconds, until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
- Season & serve:
- Stir again, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with Parmesan and smoked paprika if desired. Serve immediately.
Save My kids now love making this for themselves after school. It´s become a small tradition to let them customize their own mug with their favorite cheeses.
Required Tools
All you need is a large microwave-safe mug and a spoon; no pots, pans, or extra dishes required.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has 410 calories, 18 g total fat, 42 g carbohydrates, and 18 g protein.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains gluten and dairy; be sure to use gluten-free pasta and check cheese labels if needed.
Save With just a few ingredients and some microwave magic, you can enjoy homemade mac & cheese anytime. Perfect for those days when comfort food calls and time is short.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I prevent the mug from overflowing?
Use a large microwave-safe mug (at least 12 oz/350 ml) and microwave in short intervals, stirring to avoid overflow.
- → Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Yes, mozzarella or Monterey Jack work well for a milder flavor, or add cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- → What is the best way to achieve creamy sauce?
Adding milk after cooking the pasta and melting the cheese slowly in the microwave helps create a smooth sauce.
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely, just substitute regular elbow macaroni with a gluten-free variety to suit dietary needs.
- → What optional seasonings enhance the flavor?
Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika complement the cheese nicely.