Pasta in a Mug

User Reviews

5

379 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    2 mins

  • Cook Time

    5 mins

  • Total Time

    7 mins

  • Servings

    1 serving

  • Calories

    380 kcal

  • Course

    Main Course

  • Cuisine

    American

Pasta in a Mug

This recipe provides a quick method for cooking elbow pasta entirely in a microwave-safe mug, combining pasta, water, milk, salt, and cheese. The pasta is cooked by microwaving with stirring intervals to ensure even cooking and absorption of liquid. Adding milk and shredded cheese after the pasta has absorbed the water creates a creamy texture. This single-serving dish allows for a compact, easy-to-make snack or light meal, ideal for when stove access is limited or for a simple comforting pasta bite.

Description

Pasta in a Mug features elbow macaroni cooked in a large microwave-safe mug with salt and water, microwaved in intervals while stirring to ensure even cooking. Once the water is fully absorbed by the pasta, milk and fine shredded cheese are stirred in and briefly microwaved again to melt the cheese and blend everything. The result is a creamy and cheesy pasta portion prepared quickly in a small container. The texture balances tender cooked pasta with a smooth, cheesy sauce coating each piece.

The method simplifies noodle preparation, avoiding pots or pans, making it helpful in compact kitchens or for a quick solo serving. The final dish serves well as a comforting snack or an accompaniment to other dishes.

Leftovers can be stored covered in the mug and refrigerated for a few days and reheated with a splash of milk or water to restore moisture.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • cup elbow pasta uncooked
  • pinch salt
  • cup water
  • cup milk whole or 2%
  • ½ cup cheese pre-packaged, finely shredded

Instructions

  1. Combine the macaroni, salt and water in a large wide mug (about 2-cup capacity) and microwave for 4 minutes total, stopping every minute to stir the pasta and allow the boiling water to settle.
  2. Check to make sure all the water is absorbed and add up to 30 more seconds of cooking time, if necessary. When the water is all absorbed, add the milk and cheese, and return to the microwave for 1 more minute.
  3. Stir the mixture to combine the milk and cheese with the cooked pasta, and allow the pasta to cool for a couple minutes before enjoying.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in the same mug covered with plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • When reheating, add a splash of water or milk to maintain moisture and prevent dryness.
  • Stirring the pasta every minute during cooking ensures even heat distribution and prevents sticking.
  • Use finely shredded pre-packaged cheese for faster melting.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Serving 1g Calories 380kcal (19%) Carbohydrates 40g (13%) Protein 21g (42%) Fat 15g (23%) Saturated Fat 8g (40%) Cholesterol 51mg (17%) Sodium 395mg (16%) Potassium 257mg (5%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 6g (12%) Vitamin A 459IU (9%) Calcium 377mg (38%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 1serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 380 kcal

% Daily Value*

Serving 1g
Calories 380kcal 19%
Carbohydrates 40g 13%
Protein 21g 42%
Fat 15g 23%
Saturated Fat 8g 40%
Cholesterol 51mg 17%
Sodium 395mg 16%
Potassium 257mg 5%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 6g 12%
Vitamin A 459IU 9%
Calcium 377mg 38%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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5

379 reviews
Excellent

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