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Mug Mac Cheese Comfort

Featured in: All-American Desserts

This comforting mug mac cheese is a quick and easy dish perfect for a snack or light meal. Using elbow macaroni, water, milk, and shredded cheddar, it cooks entirely in the microwave in just minutes. Stirring throughout ensures creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta without any extra dishes. Optional toppings like Parmesan and smoked paprika elevate the flavors and add a little smoky depth. Ideal for a hassle-free treat with familiar pantry staples.

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Updated on Tue, 18 Nov 2025 15:52:00 GMT
Steaming mug mac & cheese, topped with paprika, offers a warm, bubbly cheese pull. Save
Steaming mug mac & cheese, topped with paprika, offers a warm, bubbly cheese pull. | dashofstates.com

A creamy, comforting single-serve macaroni and cheese made in minutes using just your microwave—perfect for a quick snack or meal.

I first discovered microwave mug mac & cheese when looking for a way to satisfy late-night cravings with ingredients I always have on hand. It's quick, portion-controlled, and no need to boil a pot of water!

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 macaroni & water:
Place macaroni and water in a large microwave-safe mug (at least 12 oz/350 ml capacity). Stir to combine.
Cook pasta:
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 cheese & milk:
Add milk, shredded cheddar, mustard, and garlic powder. Stir well.
Microwave to melt:
Microwave for another 30–40 seconds, until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
Season and serve:
Stir again, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with Parmesan and smoked paprika if desired. Serve immediately.
A close-up of a single-serve mug mac & cheese, ideal for a quick, comforting lunch. Save
A close-up of a single-serve mug mac & cheese, ideal for a quick, comforting lunch. | dashofstates.com

This recipe is a hit in our family, especially on busy school nights when everyone wants something quick and cheesy. Kids love being able to make their own mug mac & cheese.

Required Tools

Large microwave-safe mug, Spoon

Allergen Information

Contains wheat (gluten), milk, and cheese (dairy). Double-check cheese and pasta labels if you have allergies.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 410, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 42 g, Protein: 18 g

Bright yellow mug mac & cheese with melted cheese and creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights. Save
Bright yellow mug mac & cheese with melted cheese and creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights. | dashofstates.com

Enjoy this microwave mug mac & cheese piping hot for a cozy and satisfying meal. Clean-up is a breeze, making it perfect for busy days.

Recipe FAQ

→ How do I prevent the mug from overflowing during cooking?

Use a large microwave-safe mug with at least a 12 oz capacity and watch the cooking process, stirring every 30 seconds to avoid overflow.

→ Can I substitute cheddar cheese with other cheeses?

Yes, mozzarella or Monterey Jack can be used. Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, but feel free to experiment.

→ Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?

Use gluten-free elbow macaroni instead of traditional pasta to accommodate gluten-free diets.

→ What optional seasonings enhance the flavor?

Dijon mustard and garlic powder add a subtle tang and depth, while smoked paprika sprinkled on top brings a smoky note.

→ Can I add extra creaminess to the dish?

Adding a spoonful of cream cheese during mixing enriches the sauce, making it even creamier and more decadent.

Mug Mac Cheese Comfort

Creamy, comforting single-serve macaroni made swiftly with melted cheese and simple ingredients.

Prep duration
3 min
Cook duration
5 min
Complete duration
8 min
Created by Jordan Miller


Complexity Easy

Heritage American

Output 1 Portions

Nutritional considerations Meat-free

Components

Pasta

01 1/2 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)

Liquid

01 1/2 cup water
02 1/4 cup whole or 2% milk

Cheese & Seasonings

01 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
02 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
03 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
04 Salt to taste
05 Black pepper to taste

Topping (optional)

01 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
02 Pinch of smoked paprika

Method

Phase 01

Combine macaroni and water: Place elbow macaroni and water into a large microwave-safe mug (minimum 12 fl oz capacity). Stir to mix evenly.

Phase 02

Microwave pasta initial cook: Microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir, then continue microwaving in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until macaroni is al dente and most water is absorbed, totaling 4 to 5 minutes. Monitor to prevent overflow.

Phase 03

Combine dairy and seasonings: Add milk, shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder to the mug. Stir thoroughly until combined.

Phase 04

Melt cheese: Microwave for an additional 30 to 40 seconds until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.

Phase 05

Season and garnish: Stir again, season with salt and black pepper to taste, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and smoked paprika if desired. Serve immediately.

Necessary tools

  • Large microwave-safe mug
  • Spoon

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if you're uncertain.
  • Contains wheat (gluten), milk, and dairy cheese.

Nutrient breakdown (each portion)

These figures are approximate and shouldn't replace professional health advice.
  • Energy: 410
  • Fats: 18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Proteins: 18 g