Microwave Bowl Pasta Quick (Printable Version)

A fast method to prepare tender pasta using minimal tools, perfect for busy days.

# What You'll 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

# Directions:

01 - Place dried pasta in a large microwave-safe bowl, ensuring it fills no more than half the bowl to prevent boiling over.
02 - Pour water and salt into bowl. Stir thoroughly to distribute salt evenly.
03 - Microwave uncovered on high power for 4 minutes.
04 - Stir pasta, then microwave in 2-minute intervals, stirring after each, until al dente 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, black pepper, and sauce if using. Serve immediately.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Ready in just 12 minutes from start to finish
  • Requires only one bowl and minimal cleanup
  • Perfect for single servings without leftovers
  • Works with any pasta shape you have on hand
  • No need to drain boiling water—pasta absorbs it as it cooks
02 -
  • Use hot tap water to start—this reduces cooking time by about 1 minute
  • Break long pasta like spaghetti in half before adding to the bowl
  • Let the bowl rest for 1 minute after microwaving to finish the cooking process
  • Save a tablespoon of pasta water before draining to help sauce adhere better
  • Cover with a paper towel while microwaving to catch any splatters
Go Back