Microwave Mac and Cheese is the easiest weeknight dinner you’ll ever make. The entire meal cooks in the microwave in about 5 minutes and is loaded with broccoli and cheese — a simple, family-friendly meal.
Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Galanz Americas. All opinions are my own.
This microwave mac and cheese is cheesy, fast, and packed with broccoli. It’s perfect for nights when you don’t feel like spending time at the stove or when you’re short on time. Prepared entirely in the microwave, it’s convenient, nutritious, and something the whole family will enjoy.
Using a microwave with sensor cook and reheat features (like the Galanz ExpressWave) can make this even easier — those modes help take the guesswork out of timing. Leftovers reheat well in the microwave too, so you can enjoy this again the next day.
This recipe is quick, practical, and easy to scale if you need more servings. Below you’ll find the ingredient list, simple step-by-step method, and helpful tips to get the best texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- Pasta – any small-shaped noodle works best (macaroni, cavatappi, or rotini recommended)
- Broccoli – frozen (thawed and chopped). Frozen cooks quickly and is convenient to keep on hand
- Cheese – shredded (cheddar, Colby Jack, or gouda melt well)
- Milk – any variety you have available
- Water and a pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: hot sauce, chives, black pepper
Method
Step 1: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the pasta, frozen broccoli, water, and salt. Place the bowl in the microwave and cook for about 3 minutes (adjust time based on your microwave and pasta type).
Step 2: Carefully remove the bowl, stir in the milk and shredded cheese, then return the bowl to the microwave and heat for 45 seconds.
Step 3: Stir thoroughly. Let the mixture rest 1–2 minutes, then taste. If the pasta is still firm, microwave in 15-second increments until tender. If the dish feels too dry, add a tablespoon of water and stir.
Finish with optional toppings such as extra cheese, hot sauce, chives, or cracked black pepper and serve warm.
Tips and FAQs
- Use a high-quality shredded cheese for a creamier result. Brands like Tillamook or Organic Valley tend to melt well.
- Cook times vary by pasta shape and brand. If pasta isn’t fully cooked after the initial time, microwave in 15-second increments until done.
- Frozen broccoli is convenient and cooks quickly. If you prefer fresh broccoli, chop it small and adjust the cook time accordingly.
How many servings is this recipe?
This is written as a single-serve recipe, but you can cook 2–3 bowls at once if your microwave has enough space. Multiply ingredients as needed and watch the cook time — you may need to add a short extra interval if cooking multiple bowls.
Do I have to use broccoli?
No. Substitute frozen peas, cauliflower, or a medley of mixed frozen vegetables if you prefer. Any frozen vegetable that cooks quickly will work well.
More cheesy recipes:
- Cheesy Cauliflower Rice Skillet
- Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese
- Avocado Grilled Cheese with Buffalo Sauce
If you make this recipe, leave a comment and star rating below — thanks!
Microwave Mac and Cheese
Erin Alvarez
1
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup frozen broccoli, thawed and chopped
- 1/2 cup pasta
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more)
- Hot sauce, chives, black pepper — optional toppings
Instructions
- Add broccoli, pasta, water, and salt to a microwave-safe bowl.
- Cook in the microwave for about 3 minutes (adjust based on your microwave and pasta).
- Remove, stir in the milk and cheese, then microwave 45 seconds more.
- Stir, let rest for 1–2 minutes, then taste. If needed, microwave in 15-second increments until pasta is tender. Add a tablespoon of water if the mixture seems dry.
- Top with extra cheese, hot sauce, chives, or black pepper and enjoy.
Notes
*Cook times vary by pasta type and microwave. If pasta isn’t cooked, heat in 15-second increments until tender.
*If the dish seems dry, add an extra tablespoon of water and stir.
*Substitute frozen peas, cauliflower, or mixed vegetables if you prefer something other than broccoli.
*Using higher-quality shredded cheese will yield a creamier texture.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 29 g |
Protein: 26 g |
Fat: 28 g |
Saturated Fat: 17 g |
Sodium: 1096 mg
Leave a comment and star rating below!