Ever wonder how to make your favorite boxed mac and cheese without boiling water? Here’s how to make Boxed Macaroni and Cheese in the Microwave. Whether you love Kraft, Annie’s, or even the cheap store brand, this one-dish method delivers perfectly creamy noodles in just minutes—no pot, no draining drama.

Close up of a bowl with a brown edge full of kraft macaroni and cheese on top of a plaid towel.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Microwave Boxed Mac and Cheese

1 (6 oz) box of mac and cheese
2 cups water
Butter, milk, and cheese packet

How to Make Boxed Mac and Cheese in the Microwave

Add the dry noodles from your boxed mix into a deep microwave safe dish, like this Corningware 2 1/2 quart casserole dish.

Add in 2 cups of water and stir.

Microwave uncovered for 10–11 minutes. The noodles should be tender. I like to stir it halfway through, but you don’t need to.

After cooking, stir the noodles to separate them. If there’s any water leftover, use a strainer or spoon to remove it. If your noodles seem clumped together, don’t worry, they will separate when you add the butter.

Add the butter, milk, and cheese packet, and stir everything together until it’s completely mixed and creamy. The sauce will thicken as it cools.

Tips & Suggestions

Extra creamy hack: Add 1–2 slices of American cheese or a small handful of shredded cheddar for a silkier sauce.
Veggie add-ins: Toss in broccoli or peas during the last 3 minutes of cook time.
Make it fancy: Stir in sour cream and chopped chives, and top with crushed sour cream & onion chips for crunch.
Spicy bacon lovers: Mix in cooked chopped bacon and a few dashes of hot sauce for a savory kick.
Flamin’ Hot lovers: Crush a cup of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and sprinkle in and mix it up.
Add 1 teaspoon of butter or oil with the water before cooking to help prevent sticking.

FAQ

Q: Can I really cook boxed mac and cheese in the microwave?
A: Yes! Skip the stovetop—this method uses just your microwave and one bowl. It works with Kraft, Annie’s, Goodles, and most boxed varieties.

Q: What if my noodles aren’t tender after 11 minutes?
A: Microwave ovens vary, so just add 30-second intervals until they reach your desired texture.

Q: Do I need to stir while cooking?
A: It’s optional, but stirring halfway through can help prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Q: Can I make this without straining the water?
A: Most of the water gets absorbed, but if there’s any left over, simply drain it off or spoon it out before adding the cheese sauce.

Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Yes! Just use a large microwave-safe dish and extend the cooking time by 2–3 minutes. Stir well and check doneness as you go.

What to make with Boxed Mac and Cheese Microwave

More Pasta Recipes in the Microwave

4 servings

Boxed Macaroni in the Microwave

Name: Boxed Macaroni in the Microwave
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 12 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (6 oz) mac and cheese; 2 cups water; Butter and milk (as directed on the box); Cheese packet from the box

Prep Time: 2 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 12 minutes

Ingredients

1 box (6 oz) mac and cheese
2 cups water
Butter and milk (as directed on the box)
Cheese packet from the box

Instructions

Add the dry noodles from your boxed mix into a deep microwave safe dish, like a Corningware 2 1/2 quart casserole dish.

Add in 2 cups of water and stir.

Microwave uncovered for 10–11 minutes. The noodles should be tender. I like to stir it halfway through, but you don't need to.

After cooking, stir the noodles to separate them. If there’s any water leftover, use a strainer or spoon to remove it. If your noodles seem clumped together, don't worry, they will separate when you add the butter.

Add the butter, milk, and cheese packet, and stir everything together until it's completely mixed and creamy. The sauce will thicken as it cools.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 310Total Fat: 26gSaturated Fat: 15gUnsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 66mgSodium: 410mgCarbohydrates: 11gFiber: 0gSugar: 2gProtein: 7g

Any nutritional information on justmicrowaveit.com should only be used as a general guideline. This information is provided as a courtesy and there is no guarantee that the information will be completely accurate.

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Boxed Macaroni and Cheese in the Microwave