Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for speed when it comes to dinner? With these 20 delicious and easy microwave recipes, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re short on time or just looking for a convenient solution for busy nights, microwaves are a quick and efficient way to cook up a storm.
From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese to international-inspired dishes like Thai peanut noodles, we’ve got you covered with these 20 mouthwatering recipes that can be prepared in just minutes. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade meals with minimal effort required. In this article, we’ll explore the world of microwave cooking and share our favorite recipes for busy nights.
Microwave Chicken Fajitas
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy meal that’s ready in just a few minutes! This microwave chicken fajita recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup sliced onions
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine chicken, bell peppers, onions, olive oil, cumin, and chili powder.
2. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble fajitas by dividing cooked chicken mixture among tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Cheesy Microwave Quesadillas
Need a snack or meal that’s fast and delicious? Look no further! This recipe makes perfect, gooey quesadillas with minimal effort and just a few minutes of cooking time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken or beans (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Place one tortilla in a microwave-safe plate.
2. Sprinkle half of the cheese and optional filling (if using) on half of the tortilla.
3. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
4. Microwave on high for 20-30 seconds or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
5. Repeat with the remaining ingredients and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-50 seconds per quesadilla
Microwave Mac and Cheese
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this easy and speedy recipe! This microwave macaroni and cheese is a perfect solution for those busy nights when you need a comforting meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup elbow macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and butter. Microwave on high for 30 seconds.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Microwave on high for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the macaroni is coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Microwave Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this easy and flavorful microwave recipe that’s ready in just a few minutes! Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these garlic butter shrimp are a delicious and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the shrimp, garlic, and butter.
2. Microwave on high for 30 seconds.
3. Remove the bowl from the microwave and stir the mixture.
4. Return the bowl to the microwave and cook for an additional 20-25 seconds, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 50-55 seconds
Microwave Stuffed Peppers
In just a few minutes, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy meal with this easy microwave stuffed peppers recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey, cooked and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
2. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, ground beef or turkey, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
4. Place peppers in microwave-safe dish, leaving some space between them.
5. Cover with microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
6. Microwave on high for 12-15 minutes, rotating every 4 minutes.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Microwave Teriyaki Salmon
This recipe yields a deliciously flavored salmon dish with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, all cooked to perfection in the microwave. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a microwave-safe dish with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.
2. Place a salmon fillet on the prepared dish.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and soy sauce until smooth.
4. Pour the sauce over the salmon, making sure it’s fully coated.
5. Add 1-2 tbsp of water to the dish, depending on the desired level of moisture.
6. Cook on high for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes total
Microwave Spaghetti Carbonara
This recipe takes the rich flavors of traditional spaghetti carbonara and condenses them into a speedy microwave dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked spaghetti
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 slices bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Add diced bacon to the bowl and microwave on high for 30 seconds, stirring every 15 seconds until crispy.
4. Add butter, Parmesan cheese, and cooked spaghetti to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
5. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until eggs are cooked to desired doneness.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Microwave Beef and Broccoli
A delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a busy night in. This recipe combines the savory flavor of beef with the crunch and nutrients of broccoli, all cooked to perfection in just minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe dish, combine the beef strips, broccoli florets, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute until the beef is cooked through and the broccoli is tender.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Microwave Egg Fried Rice
Ready in just a few minutes, this microwave egg fried rice recipe is a perfect solution for a quick and easy meal. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine cooked rice, vegetable oil, diced onion, and minced garlic.
2. Microwave on high for 30 seconds to soften the ingredients.
3. Add beaten eggs to the bowl and mix well.
4. Microwave on high for an additional 30-45 seconds or until eggs are cooked through.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Microwave Loaded Baked Potato
Elevate your snack game with this quick and easy microwave loaded baked potato recipe, perfect for a satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 large baking potato
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, diced onions, diced bell peppers, crumbled bacon
Instructions:
1. Scrub the potato clean and poke some holes in it with a fork.
2. In a microwave-safe dish, place the potato and dot the top with butter.
3. Cook on high for 4-5 minutes or until the potato is slightly tender.
4. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the potato.
5. Return to the microwave and cook for an additional 30 seconds to melt the cheese (if using).
6. Remove from the microwave and season with salt to taste.
7. Add your desired toppings and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes + 30 seconds (optional)
Microwave Chicken Alfredo Pasta
A comforting, creamy pasta dish that’s ready in just a few minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup microwaveable fettuccine pasta
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions for microwave cooking.
2. In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds until smooth.
3. Add milk to the cream cheese mixture and whisk until combined.
4. Add cooked chicken to the sauce and stir to coat.
5. Combine pasta and sauce; stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 20-30 seconds or until the sauce is hot and bubbly.
7. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Microwave Veggie Stir-Fry
Quick Microwave Veggie Stir-Fry Recipe
In just a few minutes, you can whip up a delicious and healthy veggie stir-fry using your microwave. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the mixed vegetables, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
2. Add the vegetable oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well coated.
3. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Remove from the microwave and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Microwave BBQ Pulled Pork
Ready in just a few minutes, this microwave version of BBQ pulled pork is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. With its tender texture and rich flavor, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the pork shoulder in a microwave-safe dish.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the pork shoulder.
4. Cover with plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid.
5. Microwave on high for 10-12 minutes per pound, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Let it stand for 2-3 minutes before shredding with two forks.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on the size of your pork shoulder)
Microwave Lemon Butter Tilapia
In just a few minutes, you can enjoy a flavorful and moist tilapia dish with the brightness of lemon and richness of butter. This microwave recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place a tilapia fillet on a microwave-safe plate.
2. Dot the top of each fillet with 1/2 tbsp butter.
3. Sprinkle 1/4 tsp garlic powder and salt and pepper, to taste.
4. Drizzle 1/8 cup lemon juice over each fillet.
5. Cover the plate with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
6. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes (6-8 minutes per side)
Microwave Mushroom Risotto
Say goodbye to hours of standing over a stovetop – this microwave risotto is ready in just minutes! With the help of Arborio rice, mushrooms, and parmesan cheese, you’ll be enjoying a creamy, comforting dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine rice, mushrooms, olive oil, onion, garlic, and white wine (if using). Mix well.
2. Add warmed broth, 1 tablespoon at a time, stirring after each addition until liquid is absorbed. Repeat for 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in butter and parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes
Microwave Turkey and Cheese Wrap
This recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day when you need a satisfying snack or lunch that can be prepared in no time. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious wrap ready to go.
Ingredients:
– 1 large tortilla
– 2 slices of deli turkey breast
– 1 slice of cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of shredded lettuce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the tortilla on a microwave-safe plate.
2. Arrange the turkey slices on one half of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Place the cheese slice on top of the turkey.
4. Spread the mayonnaise over the cheese.
5. Top with shredded lettuce.
6. Fold the other half of the tortilla over to enclose the filling.
7. Microwave on high for 20-25 seconds or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 seconds
Microwave Sweet Potato Mash
Get ready to enjoy a deliciously smooth and creamy sweet potato mash with minimal effort! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for the holidays.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 medium-sized sweet potatoes
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Wash and poke some holes in the sweet potatoes.
2. Cook on high in the microwave for 3-4 minutes per potato, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Remove from the microwave and let cool for a minute.
4. Cut open the sweet potatoes and mash with a fork until smooth.
5. Add butter, milk, and salt to taste. Mix well to combine.
Cooking Time:
– 8-12 minutes total cooking time
– 3-4 minutes per sweet potato
Microwave Spinach and Cheese Omelet
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious omelet, packed with spinach and melted cheese. This microwave recipe is easy to make and ready in just minutes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a microwave-safe bowl and whisk until well combined.
2. Add the chopped spinach, butter, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
3. Microwave on high for 30 seconds.
4. Remove the bowl from the microwave and add the shredded cheese.
5. Microwave again on high for an additional 15-20 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and the eggs are cooked through.
6. Carefully remove the omelet from the microwave using oven mitts (if necessary) and fold in half to serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 seconds
Microwave Thai Peanut Noodles
Quickly satisfy your cravings with this easy-to-make Microwave Thai Peanut Noodles recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup noodles (rice or egg)
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, coconut milk, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Microwave on high for 30 seconds, stirring every 10 seconds until smooth.
3. Add cooked noodles to the bowl and stir until well coated with the peanut sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped peanuts and scallions (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes
Microwave Sausage and Peppers
A flavorful and satisfying meal that’s ready in just a few minutes! This recipe combines the savory taste of sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers for a delicious and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 sausage (you can use any type you like, such as chorizo or Italian-style)
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the sliced bell peppers in a microwave-safe dish.
2. Cut the sausage into thick slices and add them on top of the peppers.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the peppers are tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Summary
Are you tired of sacrificing taste for convenience when it comes to quick dinner recipes? Look no further! This article shares 20 mouth-watering microwavable dinner ideas that can be prepared in a flash. From classic comfort foods like microwave mac and cheese, cheesy quesadillas, and loaded baked potato, to international-inspired dishes like teriyaki salmon, Thai peanut noodles, and BBQ pulled pork, there’s something for everyone. With minimal ingredients and easy instructions, these recipes are perfect for busy nights when cooking seems like a chore. Try them out and discover that delicious doesn’t have to mean time-consuming!