How To Cook Pasta In The Microwave

For times when a stove isn't available, cooking pasta in the microwave is just as easy and quick as the stovetop method. Indeed, the results are just as tender, too. You'll get toothsome, perfectly cooked pasta, and you won't have to worry with boiling water on the stovetop.

Learn how to cook pasta in the microwave, and try this technique the next time you don't have the stovetop space to cook.

How Long Does It Take To Microwave Pasta?

This depends on a lot of factors—the shape of the pasta, the wattage of your microwave, and how much you're trying to cook at a time. We tested this recipe using an 1100-watt microwave. In general, you’ll cook the pasta for 1 to 3 minutes longer than the time stated on the package.

Once you’re cooked the pasta for the same amount of time listed on the package, start checking the pasta for doneness every minute.

What Kind of Equipment Do I Need To Cook Pasta in the Microwave?

Besides the microwave, of course, you don’t need any special equipment to make pasta in the microwave. You will need a large, microwave-safe bowl and a strainer.

Microwave Pasta Ingredients

To make pasta in the microwave, you only need a few simple ingredients.

• Pasta: We're using penne, but any short shape should work well.
• Tap water: For cooking the pasta.
• Salt: Salting pasta water isn't just for the stovetop.

Plus any toppings you would like to serve with the pasta.

How Much Pasta Can I Make at a Time in the Microwave?

This method works best for 1 to 2 servings at a time. You’ll want to make sure you have a bowl large enough for the pasta and water to cook without boiling over. Do not try to overcrowd the bowl—cooking too much pasta at once can cause it to clump together and cook unevenly.

The Best Pasta for Cooking in the Microwave

When cooking pasta in the microwave, the easiest pasta to use is a short shape, like penne, fusilli, or macaroni. Spaghetti can be cooked in the microwave as well, but it can be difficult to find a container that is long and deep enough to accommodate the pasta and water.

How To Serve Pasta Cooked in the Microwave

This method for cooking pasta is great for a quick, premade sauce, like store-bought marinara or pesto. You can also toss with melted butter and Parmesan cheese to make buttered noodles.

What Is the Best Way for Reheating Pasta?

Leftover pasta can be dry as it absorbs liquid from the sauce. Before reheating, stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of water (for a pesto- or tomato-based sauce) or milk (for a creamy or cheesy sauce). Loosely cover with a paper towel, and microwave on high in 30- to 60-second intervals, stirring often, until the pasta is evenly heated through.

More Microwave Cooking

Your microwave can do a lot of work for you if you find the stove unavailable. Try one of these recipes next:

• Microwave Baked Potato
• How To Cook Bacon in the Microwave
• How To Microwave Corn On The Cob
• How To Cook a Sweet Potato in the Microwave