When you’re pressed for time but still want a satisfying meal, your microwave can be a lifesaver. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious dinner in minutes. Here are five quick and easy microwave meals perfect for busy weeknights.
1. Microwave Mac and Cheese in a Mug
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large microwave-safe mug, combine the macaroni and water.
- Microwave on high for 4-5 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is cooked and the water is mostly absorbed.
- Add the milk and cheese to the mug, stirring to combine.
- Microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper, and enjoy your quick, comforting mac and cheese.
2. Microwave Veggie Fried Rice
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked rice (day-old rice works best)
- 1/2 cup mixed frozen vegetables
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- Green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cooked rice and frozen vegetables.
- Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are heated through.
- Make a small well in the center of the rice, crack the egg into the well, and stir to combine.
- Microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway, until the egg is fully cooked.
- Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil, if using. Top with chopped green onions, and your veggie fried rice is ready to serve.
3. Microwave Baked Potato with Toppings
Ingredients:
- 1 large russet potato
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Chopped chives or green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Pierce the potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Microwave the potato on high for 5-7 minutes, turning it over halfway through, until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Carefully cut the potato open, fluff the inside with a fork, and add butter.
- Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, chives, or green onions, and season with salt and pepper.
- Your hearty baked potato with all the fixings is ready to enjoy.
4. Microwave Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sandwich
Ingredients:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 English muffin or small bagel, split and toasted
- 1 slice of cheese (cheddar, American, or your choice)
- Optional: Cooked bacon or ham slice
Instructions:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Microwave on high for 1-1.5 minutes until the egg is set.
- Place the cooked egg on one half of the toasted English muffin or bagel.
- Top with the cheese slice and bacon or ham, if using.
- Place the other half of the muffin or bagel on top, and microwave the sandwich for 15-20 seconds to melt the cheese. Enjoy your quick breakfast-for-dinner!
5. Microwave Chicken Quesadilla
Ingredients:
- 1 large flour tortilla
- 1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 2 tablespoons salsa
- Optional: Sour cream and guacamole for serving
Instructions:
- Place the tortilla on a microwave-safe plate.
- Spread the shredded chicken evenly over half of the tortilla, then top with cheese and salsa.
- Fold the tortilla in half over the filling.
- Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the quesadilla is heated through.
- Cut into wedges and serve with sour cream and guacamole, if desired. Your cheesy, satisfying quesadilla is ready in no time.
These quick and easy microwave meals are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious, homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can enjoy a variety of satisfying dishes that are sure to please the whole family.
