The weekend is a time to relax and enjoy delicious food – and what could be better than some cheesy pasta? This dish is popular because it has so many varieties and anyone can make it easily. There’s a way to make pasta even quicker: using a mug and a microwave. This method makes a small portion of pasta that will satisfy your cravings any time of the day (or night). Plus, you won’t have to use as many utensils to make it – so there’s less washing up later, too! Wondering how to make pasta in a mug? It’s very easy. Check out our recipes and tips below.
How to make pasta in a mug 5 Easy Mug Pasta Recipes
Pro Tip: While making mug pasta, take special care of the quantity and cooking time. Photo Credit: iStock
The basic preparation method of mug pasta remains the same:
- Fill a large mug with 1/2 cup pasta and 1 cup water. Add a pinch of salt. Microwave on high setting for 4-5 minutes.
- Open the microwave midway and stir the contents of the mug. Check if the pasta is al dente/cooked to your liking. If not, microwave in 30 second intervals.
- Once cooked, drain off excess water and add sauces, masalas and toppings of your choice.
- Place the mug back in the microwave and cook for 1-2 more minutes as needed. Stir the pasta every 30 seconds to make sure the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
- Garnish with grated cheese and herbs. Enjoy hot.
Also read: 7 Mistakes You Should Avoid When Making Restaurant Style Pasta
Tips to remember when making mug pasta:
1. Use the right mug
The mug you choose should be microwave-safe, and capable of holding 350 ml or more. If you want to add additional toppings, you’ll need to have room to spread out the flavors in your mug.
2. Keep a close eye on your pasta
After 60 seconds in the microwave, take the mug out and shake it before returning it for another minute. This way, you can also see if the pasta is cooking properly or not.
Also read: 13 easy microwave recipes 13 Quick and Simple Microwave Recipes
3. Use the right kind of pasta
Smaller pasta types like macaroni are better suited to cooking in mugs. Photo Credit: iStock
If you are doing this for the first time, it is best to choose smaller sized pasta like macaroni, penne or fusilli. It can be difficult to cook spaghetti or fettuccine properly in the limited space of the mug.
4. Be mindful of quantity
Don’t add too many ingredients to your pasta – you don’t want it to overflow. Also, note that chicken or vegetables may need to be precooked before adding them to the mug. It’s best to keep it simple. You can start with the recipes below.
Also read: This Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is the perfect summer recipe that will make you swoon
Here are the 5 best mug pasta varieties you should try:
1. Cheesy White Sauce Pasta
This is the easiest pasta to make in a mug. All you need is milk, cheese, salt and masala. You can add other vegetables or chicken as per your choice. But even if you don’t, this pasta will definitely taste amazing. When the pasta is al dente, add about 60 ml of milk and half a cup of grated cheese to make the ‘sauce’. Then follow the rest of the instructions above.
Also read: Do you want a new type of white sauce pasta? Try this Creamy Cauliflower Pasta
2. Red Sauce Pasta
Another classic, red sauce pasta has a lovely tangy flavor. You can mix about 1-2 tablespoons of tomato puree, 2 chopped garlic cloves and cheese to make a sauce for one mug. If you do not have puree then you can use ketchup. But mix the ketchup with chili flakes, oregano, and other herbs to reduce its sweetness before adding it to the pasta.
3. Pink Sauce Pasta
Get the best of both worlds with pink sauce pasta. For this, it is advisable to mix the sauce ingredients separately before pouring them into the mug. You can make pink sauce by mixing tomato pasta sauce/puree, cream, garlic, cheese, olive oil and spices. Once mixed well, add 2-3 tablespoons of sauce to the mug, stir and return to the microwave to cook.
4. Pesto Pasta
Pesto sauce is a refreshing and delicious green sauce that can be used in many ways. Photo Credit: iStock
This option is for when you have extra time. Pesto sauce is made by mixing basil leaves, olive oil, garlic, cheese and pine nuts (you can use almonds in place of nuts). You may ask why go through so much trouble? Because you can use pesto in many ways. Apart from adding it to your mug of pasta, you can also use it as a spread on bread slices or as a dip with chips. Click here for the full recipe of Pesto Sauce.
Also read: All About Pesto Sauce – Origin Story, Varieties of Pesto Sauce and How to Use
5. Aglio Olio Pasta
If you’re using flat pasta like farfalle, you can also try making aglio olio in a mug. Penne or macaroni are not recommended as it is difficult to get the ‘sauce’ inside the hollow part of the pasta. To make the Aglio Olio sauce, combine olive oil, chopped garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Heat the mixture in the microwave for 20-30 seconds before pouring it into the pasta mug.
Also read: When pasta became desi – hilarious formula reveals what Indians add to pasta
What are you waiting for? Try making mug pasta today! As we have shown you, it is very simple and profitable! PS Don’t forget to keep a slice of garlic bread ready.