Microwave Bowl Pasta (Printable)

Cook pasta in a microwave bowl in just 12 minutes. A quick, convenient single-serving meal perfect for busy days.

# What You Need:

→ 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

# How To Make It:

01 - Place dried pasta in a large microwave-safe bowl, ensuring pasta does not fill more than half the bowl to prevent boiling over.
02 - Pour water and salt over pasta. Stir thoroughly to combine and distribute salt evenly.
03 - Microwave uncovered on high power for 4 minutes to begin cooking process.
04 - Stir pasta thoroughly, then microwave in 2-minute increments, stirring after each interval, until pasta reaches al dente texture and most water is absorbed (total 8-10 minutes depending on pasta shape and microwave wattage).
05 - If any excess water remains, carefully drain from bowl.
06 - Stir in olive oil or butter, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and sauce if using. Serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The cleanup is ridiculously minimal no strainer, no pot, just the bowl you eat from and a measuring cup.
  • You can make this anywhere with electricity even in office break rooms, hotel rooms, or dorm spaces when youre craving something homemade.
02 -
  • The bowl will be extremely hot when you remove it from the microwave use oven mitts or a kitchen towel to avoid burns.
  • Different microwaves vary in power, so your first attempt might require adjusting the timing by a minute or two in either direction for your specific appliance.
03 -
  • Save some of the starchy pasta water before draining any excess it makes an excellent thickener if youre adding a sauce.
  • For creamier results without actual cream, try adding a tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of milk alternative after cooking.
Return