Easy 3-Ingredient Microwave Mug Mac and Cheese Recipe with Crunchy Breadcrumbs
A quick and comforting microwave mug mac and cheese made with just three ingredients and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs for a satisfying texture.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 7 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/4 cup dry elbow macaroni (about 30 grams)
- 1/2 cup water (120 ml)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 28 grams)
- 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs (about 7 grams)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon melted butter (for mixing with breadcrumbs)
Instructions
- Place 1/4 cup dry elbow macaroni into a microwave-safe mug.
- Add 1/2 cup water to cover the pasta completely.
- Microwave on high for 2 minutes, then stir.
- Continue microwaving in 1-minute increments, stirring each time, until pasta is tender but not mushy (about 4 to 5 minutes total).
- Drain any excess water from the mug.
- Add 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the pasta and stir well to combine.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Optionally, mix breadcrumbs with 1 teaspoon melted butter before sprinkling.
- Microwave the mug for 30 seconds to 1 minute until cheese is fully melted and breadcrumbs are golden and slightly crisp.
- Let the mug sit for 1-2 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use small pasta shapes like elbows for even cooking. Stir pasta every minute to prevent sticking and overflow. Optionally toast breadcrumbs with butter for richer flavor. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently at 50% power. Avoid freezing for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One mug serving
- Calories: 300350
- Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 12
- Protein: 12
Keywords: microwave mac and cheese, mug mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, 3-ingredient mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta, crunchy breadcrumbs