Microwave Bowl Pasta Quick (Print)

Fast, convenient way to cook pasta in a microwave-safe bowl using water, salt, and optional toppings.

# Components:

→ Pasta

01 - 3 ounces dried pasta (penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni)

→ Liquids

02 - 1 ½ cups water
03 - ¼ teaspoon salt

→ Optional Add-Ins

04 - 1 teaspoon olive oil or butter
05 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
06 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
07 - 2 tablespoons marinara sauce or pesto

# Directions:

01 - Place dried pasta into a large microwave-safe bowl, filling no more than half of its volume.
02 - Pour in water and sprinkle with salt, then stir to combine.
03 - Microwave uncovered on high for 4 minutes.
04 - Stir pasta, then microwave in 2-minute increments, stirring after each, until pasta reaches al dente texture and most water is absorbed, approximately 8 to 10 minutes total depending on pasta shape and microwave power.
05 - Remove any remaining water by draining.
06 - Mix in olive oil or butter, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and sauce if desired.
07 - Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy while hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's genuinely faster than waiting for water to boil, and your kitchen stays cooler.
  • One bowl means minimal cleanup, which somehow makes the whole meal taste better.
  • Perfect for dorm rooms, offices with microwaves, or anyone who finds stovetop cooking intimidating.
02 -
  • The water will boil over if your bowl is too small or too full—I learned this the hard way and spent ten minutes wiping microwave insides.
  • Pasta continues cooking even after you stop microwaving it, so pull it out when it's just barely al dente or it'll turn mushy while it sits.
03 -
  • Use a bowl with a flat bottom and straight sides; oddly shaped bowls heat unevenly and cook pasta unevenly too.
  • Stir that pasta every two minutes without fail—it's the difference between creamy and clumpy.
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