Quick Microwave Bowl Pasta (Printable Version)

Perfectly cooked pasta made in the microwave using just one bowl. Ready in 12 minutes with minimal cleanup required.

# Components:

→ Pasta

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

→ Liquids

02 - 1 ½ cups water
03 - ¼ tsp salt

→ Optional Add-Ins

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

# Directions:

01 - Place the dried pasta in a large, microwave-safe bowl, ensuring it does not fill more than half the bowl. Add water and salt, stirring to combine.
02 - Microwave uncovered on high power for 4 minutes.
03 - Stir the pasta, then microwave in 2-minute intervals, stirring after each interval, until pasta reaches al dente texture and most water is absorbed (total cooking time 8-10 minutes depending on pasta shape and microwave wattage).
04 - Drain any remaining water if necessary.
05 - Stir in olive oil or butter, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and sauce if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It is surprisingly faster than boiling water and creates zero dirty pots
  • The pasta cooks perfectly in its own serving bowl making cleanup nonexistent
02 -
  • Every microwave behaves differently so your first time will require watching closely through the door
  • The water will bubble up aggressively then collapse suddenly which is exactly what should happen
03 -
  • Let the pasta sit for 1 minute after the final microwave to finish absorbing remaining liquid
  • Use the hot pasta water to melt your cheese or butter evenly before draining
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