Microwave Mac and Cheese

Name: Microwave Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 4 cups water; 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni; 1 package (8 oz) shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (2 cups); 1 cup milk; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/4 teaspoon salt

12 Ratings

12 Reviews

Kitchen Tested

Prep 5 min
Total 30 min
Servings 4

This rich and creamy mac and cheese is ready in 30 minutes, thanks to your microwave. The best part? Our shortcut version is almost totally hands off. MORE+ LESS-

By Tablespoon Kitchens

Updated May 7, 2019

Ingredients

cups water

cups uncooked elbow macaroni

package (8 oz) shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (2 cups)

cup milk

tablespoons butter

1/4

teaspoon salt

Steps

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1

In 2-quart microwavable bowl, mix water and macaroni. Microwave uncovered on High 11 to 15 minutes, stirring once, until pasta reaches desired tenderness. Drain; remove from bowl, and set aside.
2

In same bowl, mix cheese, milk, butter and salt. Microwave uncovered on High 3 to 5 minutes or until cheese and butter melt and mixture can be stirred smooth with whisk.
3

Stir in macaroni. Let stand 2 minutes, then stir again. Serve immediately.

Expert Tips

Always read labels to make sure each recipe ingredient is vegetarian. Products and ingredient sources can change.
Experiment with other shredded cheeses such as Mexican blend, Colby or Gouda. But avoid Parmesan and mozzarella. Parmesan doesn’t melt well, and mozzarella tends to clump.
For best results, use 2% or whole milk.