12 Easy Dinners That Come Together in the Microwave
When you’re craving a delicious meal but feel pressed for time, microwave dinners can be a lifesaver! These easy recipes come together in minutes, allowing you to whip up satisfying dishes without the fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re feeling too tired to cook, these meals deliver on taste and convenience. Whether it’s a cozy solo dinner or a quick family meal, these microwave-friendly options will keep everyone happy and fed. You’ll love how simple it is to serve up something special with minimal effort!
The joy of these microwave meals lies not just in their ease, but also in their versatility. From hearty pasta dishes to delightful veggie concoctions, there’s something for everyone. With flavors that don’t skimp on authenticity, these recipes make sure you never sacrifice taste for speed. Let’s dive in and explore these delectable microwave dinners!
This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of cooked pasta (any shape)
- ½ cup of marinara sauce
- 1 cup of mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (mozzarella or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish
Gather all your ingredients for these quick microwave meals.
Directions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cooked pasta and olive oil. Stir to coat the pasta evenly.
- Add the marinara sauce and mixed vegetables to the bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Season the mixture with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to distribute the seasonings.
- Top the dish with shredded cheese, spreading it out evenly over the contents.
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate. Microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through.
- Carefully remove from the microwave (it will be hot!) and let it sit for a minute before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your easy microwave dinner!
Tips & Variations
- Ingredient substitutions: You can swap the pasta for rice or quinoa for a different base. Use any vegetables you have on hand, such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers.
- Optional variations: Spice it up by adding cooked chicken, sausage, or tofu for added protein. You can also experiment with different sauces, such as alfredo or pesto, for variety.
- Storage or reheating tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Recipe Information
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 5 minutes
- Total time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Difficulty level: Easy
Microwave Pasta with Vegetables
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked pasta (any shape)
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cooked pasta and olive oil. Stir to coat the pasta evenly.
- Add the marinara sauce and mixed vegetables to the bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Season the mixture with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to distribute the seasonings.
- Top the dish with shredded cheese, spreading it out evenly over the contents.
Cooking
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate.
- Microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through.
Serving
- Carefully remove from the microwave (it will be hot!) and let it sit for a minute before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your easy microwave dinner!