Can You Microwave Kraft Mac and Cheese? | Quick Prep Tips

Can You Microwave Kraft Mac And Cheese

Kraft mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food that’s quick and easy to make on the stovetop. However, using the microwave method to cook this classic cheese in the microwave can be even faster.

With just a few simple steps, you can have a steaming hot bowl of Kraft mac and cheese in minutes using the microwave oven. In this article will discuss in detail about the microwaving mac and cheese.

Is It Possible to Microwave Kraft Mac and Cheese?

The good news is – yes, you can absolutely microwave kraft mac and cheese! While the stovetop instructions are what’s printed right on the blue box, microwaving is an easy shortcut.

The pasta and cheese sauce are all microwavable and cook up just as tasty. Microwaving allows the pasta to cook and the cheese sauce to heat all in one dish. It just requires a bit of extra care to avoid overcooking.

With the right techniques, microwaved Kraft mac and cheese tastes just as cheesy and delicious. It also saves on cleanup with fewer dishes to wash. This cheese-in-a-microwave oven method is great for quick weeknight meals or easy snacking.

Step-By-Step Guide to Microwaving Kraft Mac and Cheese

Microwaving Kraft mac and cheese only takes a few minutes. Here is a simple step-by-step guide:

Ingredients:

• 1 box of Kraft Easy Mac or Kraft macaroni and cheese mix
• Water
• Milk, butter/margarine (optional)
• Salt and pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Pour the uncooked pasta from the box into a microwave-safe bowl. Add 2 cups of water and stir.
2. Microwave the pasta: Microwave uncovered on high for 4 minutes, stirring halfway through. This boils the water and partially cooks the pasta.
3. Add the cheese sauce: Once the pasta is partially cooked, stir in the cheese sauce packet. Add 1/4 cup milk and 1 tablespoon butter for a creamier texture (optional).
4. Finish cooking: Continue microwaving on high for 2 more minutes, stirring halfway through, until pasta is fully cooked and sauce is melted.
5. Stir and serve: Stir well before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy!

Total microwave time: Approximately 6-8 minutes

Microwaving Kraft mac and cheese takes just a few easy steps. The keys are using enough water, stirring halfway through, and microwaving just until the pasta is tender.

Microwave Tips for Perfect Pasta

Microwaving pasta requires a little finesse. Here are some top tips:

• Use a microwave-safe dish to prevent cracking. Glass or ceramic bowls work best.
• Make sure to add the full 2 cups of water. This ensures the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick.
• Stir halfway through cooking to prevent sticking.
• Don’t overcook – macaroni turns mushy if microwaved too long. Check often until it reaches the perfect tenderness.
• Add a splash of milk and a pat of butter to make the cheese sauce extra rich and creamy.
• Let it stand for 1-2 minutes before eating. This helps absorb any extra moisture.

Following these microwave tips will give you fork-tender pasta and velvety cheese sauce every time.

Get Creative with Add-Ins

Plain Kraft mac and cheese is delicious, but you can also spice it up with add-ins:

• Meat: Bacon, ham, chicken
• Veggies: Broccoli, tomatoes, peas, spinach
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar, parmesan, bleu cheese
• Seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder
• Sauces: Hot sauce, ranch dressing, salsa

Get creative and add ingredients to make it a complete, well-rounded meal. The microwave cooks everything together in one dish for easy weeknight dinners.

How do you make Kraft Mac and Cheese in the microwave?

To make Kraft Mac and Cheese in the microwave, follow these steps:

• Open the box and remove the cheese packet.
• Empty the macaroni into a microwave-safe dish.
• Add 2 cups of hot water to the dish.
• Microwave the dish, uncovered, on high for 3-4 minutes.
• Carefully remove the dish from the microwave (it will be hot, so use oven mitts).
• Stir in the cheese packet.
• If desired, add milk and butter for a creamier texture.
• Microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the water is absorbed.
• Stir the mac and cheese thoroughly before serving.

How do you fix Kraft Mac and Cheese in the microwave?

If your Kraft Mac and Cheese is not coming out as desired, here are a few tips to fix it:

• Make sure you are using a microwave-safe dish.
• Follow the instructions on the box carefully, including the recommended cooking time.
• Stir the mac and cheese well after microwaving to distribute the cheese evenly.
• If the cheese is not melting properly, you can try microwaving for an additional 30 seconds.
• If the macaroni is not cooked to your desired tenderness, add a little more water and microwave for a bit longer.

Remember, everyone’s microwave is different, so cooking time may vary. Adjust accordingly to achieve the desired results.

How do you cook Kraft Mac and Cheese in a microwave oven?

To cook Kraft Mac and Cheese in a microwave oven, follow these steps:

• Empty the macaroni into a microwave-safe dish.
• Add 2 cups of hot water to the dish.
• Microwave the dish, uncovered, on high for 3-4 minutes.
• Carefully remove the dish from the microwave (use oven mitts as it will be hot).
• Stir in the cheese packet and any additional ingredients like butter or margarine.
• Microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the water is absorbed.
• Stir well before serving.

How do you make boxed mac and cheese in the microwave?

 To make boxed mac and cheese in the microwave, follow these steps:

• Open the box and remove the cheese packet.
• Empty the macaroni into a microwave-safe dish.
• Add 2 cups of hot water to the dish.
• Microwave the dish, uncovered, on high for 3-4 minutes.
• Carefully remove the dish from the microwave (use oven mitts as it will be hot).
• Stir in the cheese packet and any additional ingredients like butter or margarine.
• Microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the water is absorbed. 8. Stir well before serving.

FAQs

Many people have questions about the best way to microwave kraft mac and get perfect results. Here are some frequently asked questions:

Can you microwave Kraft Mac and Cheese?

Yes, you can microwave Kraft Mac and Cheese.

Can you microwave Kraft Macaroni and Cheese in the box?

No, you should not microwave Kraft Macaroni and Cheese in the box. It is important to transfer the macaroni and cheese to a microwave-safe dish before microwaving.

Can you add butter or margarine to Kraft Mac and Cheese in the microwave?

Yes, you can add butter or margarine to Kraft Mac and Cheese in the microwave. After microwaving the macaroni, stir in the butter or margarine along with the cheese packet for a richer and creamier taste.

How long do you microwave Kraft Mac and Cheese?

The recommended microwave cooking time for Kraft Mac and Cheese is 3-4 minutes on high. However, microwaves can vary, so it’s important to check the macaroni for doneness and adjust the time accordingly.

What can I add to Kraft Mac and Cheese in the microwave to make it creamier?

To make Kraft Mac and Cheese creamier in the microwave, you can add milk and butter. After microwaving the macaroni, stir in the cheese packet, a splash of milk, and a pat of butter. Mix well to create a creamy texture.

Can I use shredded cheese instead of the cheese packet in Kraft Mac and Cheese?

While the cheese packet provided in the Kraft Mac and Cheese box is specially formulated for the best taste and consistency, you can experiment with using shredded cheese as a substitute. Keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary, and you may need to adjust the quantity and melt the shredded cheese thoroughly.

Conclusion

Kraft mac and cheese straight from the blue box is already easy enough on the stovetop. But using the microwave cuts the prep time even shorter for a quick comfort food fix. With the right amount of water, stirring halfway, and avoiding overcooking, you can make delicious microwaved kraft mac perfect every time.

Add fun mix-ins to turn a box of kraft into a complete meal. Now go enjoy the cheesy goodness of Kraft mac and cheese, microwave style!