We all have those days when we’re starving, but the thought of cooking feels overwhelming. Thankfully, the microwave – often seen just as a reheating tool – can be a lifesaver. This list of 28 mouthwatering dishes, from hearty meals to tempting desserts, can be whipped up quickly using just your microwave.
There is no need for fancy cooking skills or prolonged preparation times, just simple, fast, and tasty solutions for those busy days or lazy nights.
1. Spaghetti Squash and Meatballs
A Healthier Take on a Classic
Swap out traditional pasta for spaghetti squash and still indulge in a classic favorite. The juicy meatballs and marinara sauce pair wonderfully with the tender strands of squash.
Microwave Magic
Using your microwave makes this meal quicker and simpler. No need to wait for water to boil or juggle multiple pots and pans.
Customize to Your Liking
Opt for vegetarian meatballs or add in some roasted vegetables to elevate the dish further.
2. Microwave Chili
Warm and Comforting
This chili delivers a flavorful punch, combining spices, beans, and meat into a comforting bowl of warmth.
Simple and Quick
Microwave meals don’t have to be bland. This chili proves that with a mix of the right ingredients, your microwave can whip up a gourmet dish.
Make It Yours
Top with cheese, green onions, or even a dollop of sour cream to make it uniquely yours.
3. Cheesy Vegetable Quiche
Delightful Breakfast Option
Begin your day with this delicious quiche packed with fresh vegetables and creamy cheese.
Effortless Cooking
No oven? No problem! Your microwave can perfectly set the eggs and melt the cheese to perfection.
Variations Abound
Switch up the veggies or cheese to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
4. Teriyaki Salmon Bowl
A Taste of the Sea
Experience a delightful blend of savory teriyaki sauce and perfectly cooked salmon in this dish.
Quicker Than Takeout
Before you consider ordering in, remember you can have a homemade salmon dish ready in a fraction of the time.
Add Your Touch
Throw in some steamed vegetables or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
Read also: 23 Mug Cake Recipes
5. BBQ Chicken Nachos
A Snack or a Meal
Layered tortilla chips, juicy chicken, and tangy barbecue sauce come together in this dish that can be a snack or a hearty meal.
Microwave Efficiency
Get the perfect melt for your cheese and a nice warm chicken topping using your microwave.
Toppings Galore
Sprinkle with jalapeños, sour cream, or guacamole to elevate your nacho experience.
6. Stuffed Tomatoes with Quinoa
Healthy and Filling
Hollowed tomatoes filled with a flavorful quinoa mix offer both nutrition and taste.
Microwave Simplicity
Achieve a soft tomato exterior and a hot quinoa filling with the ease of your microwave.
Endless Possibilities
Try different grains or add in some feta cheese or olives to change up the flavors.
7. Mushroom and Spinach Risotto
Rich and Creamy
Indulge in this luxurious risotto that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with fresh spinach.
Microwave Perfection
Forget constant stirring over a stove. Your microwave can provide the same creamy consistency with less effort.
Personalize Your Dish
Consider adding chicken or swapping spinach for another leafy green of your choice.
8. Vegetable Curry Bowl
Spicy and Flavorful
A mix of vegetables in a rich curry sauce will warm your palate and satisfy your hunger.
Swift and Simple
Get a fragrant and hot curry without hours of simmering, all thanks to your microwave.
Add Protein
Consider adding tofu, chicken, or chickpeas for an added protein punch.
9. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burrito
Hearty and Wholesome
Combine the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of black beans in this fulfilling wrap.
Microwave Convenience
Get a hot, delicious burrito in minutes without any compromise on taste.
Adjust to Taste
Add cheese, rice, or some salsa to enhance flavors and add variety.
10. Microwave Jambalaya
Cajun Delight
Experience a burst of flavors with this mix of shrimp, chicken, and sausage in a spicy rice mix.
Quick and Flavorful
Who knew that a microwave could bring out such rich flavors in so little time?
Make It Your Own
Adjust the heat to your liking or add in more of your favorite proteins.
11. Microwave Egg Fried Rice
Quick Asian Fix
Craving an Asian-inspired dish? This egg fried rice has all the flavors you love, made in mere minutes.
Perfect for Leftovers
Use yesterday’s rice, throw in some veggies, and let the microwave work its magic.
Top It Up
Add some soy sauce, sesame oil, or even some grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
12. Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Light and Refreshing
A bowl of couscous mixed with olives, tomatoes, and feta provides a delightful Mediterranean experience.
Microwave Efficiency
Let the microwave quickly fluff up your couscous while you chop up the other ingredients.
Personalize Your Mix
Swap ingredients based on what you have on hand – think bell peppers, cucumbers, or even some chickpeas.
13. Broccoli and Cheddar Soup
Warm Comfort
This creamy, cheesy soup with the goodness of broccoli is pure comfort in a bowl.
Swift Satisfaction
No need to simmer for hours; your microwave can give you a hot, rich soup quickly.
Add Some Crunch
Consider adding some croutons or serve with a slice of crusty bread on the side.
14. Microwave Quesadilla
Cheesy Goodness
Perfectly melted cheese and your choice of fillings between two tortillas. Yum!
Quick Snack or Meal
Ready in minutes, it’s perfect for when hunger strikes unexpectedly.
Infinite Possibilities
Fill it with chicken, beans, veggies, or whatever your heart desires.
15. Chicken Fajita Bowl
Flavorful Delight
Marinated chicken, colorful bell peppers, and onions come together in this delightful bowl.
No Skillet Needed
While traditionally made in a skillet, your microwave can dish this out just as effectively.
Toppings Galore
Serve with some guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for added zest.
16. Chocolate Mug Cake
Instant Dessert Fix
Got a sweet craving? This mug cake is fluffy, rich, and ready in minutes.
Simple Ingredients
Most ingredients are probably already in your pantry, making this an anytime treat.
Add Your Favorites
Throw in some chocolate chips, nuts, or a scoop of ice cream on top.
Read also: 33 Cheap Dinner Ideas
17. Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Italian in Minutes
Pasta coated in rich pesto and fresh cherry tomatoes is always a delight.
Effortless Gourmet
Let the microwave handle the cooking while you handle the praise.
Add Some Protein
Consider adding some grilled chicken or even shrimps.
18. Microwave Ratatouille
French Elegance
Experience the flavors of France with this vegetable medley dish.
Simple Yet Sophisticated
The ease of microwave cooking doesn’t compromise on the sophisticated flavors of this classic.
Pair It Up
Serve it as a side or over some cooked grains for a complete meal.
19. Tuna and Corn Jacket Potato
Hearty and Filling
A fluffy potato filled with a mix of tuna and corn is both satisfying and delicious.
Efficient Cooking
Get the perfect baked potato texture without turning on your oven.
Switch It Up
Swap tuna with chicken or beans and add your choice of herbs for a flavor twist.
20. Microwave Mug Pizza
Instant Pizza Craving Fix
Who said you can’t have pizza in minutes? This mug version is cheesy and delightful.
Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Taste
With basic ingredients, you can enjoy this pizza treat anytime.
Topping Choices
From pepperoni to bell peppers, choose your favorite pizza toppings.
21. Microwave Minestrone Soup
Italian Comfort Food
Beans, pasta, and veggies in a flavorful broth make this a comforting dish.
Quick Satisfaction
No long simmering hours required when the microwave is at your service.
Personal Touch
Adjust the thickness to your preference or add some cheese on top.
22. Coconut Rice and Mango Bowl
Tropical Delight
Fluffy coconut-infused rice paired with ripe mangoes feels like a tropical vacation in a bowl.
Effortless Exotic Dish
All the exotic flavors without any intricate cooking steps.
Toppings Galore
Sprinkle with some toasted sesame seeds or drizzle with some honey.
23. Microwave Nacho Cheese Dip
Perfect Party Snack
Creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy, this dip is always a hit.
Whip It Up Quickly
Perfect for unexpected guests or sudden snack cravings.
Dip Choices
From tortilla chips to vegetable sticks, choose your dipper.
24. Chicken Tikka Masala Bowl
Indian Flavors At Home
This dish, with its rich tomato-based sauce and chunks of chicken, is aromatic and delightful.
No Compromise on Flavor
Get restaurant-quality taste right in your microwave.
Serve Your Way
Best enjoyed with rice or some microwaved naan bread.
25. Microwave Mac ‘n’ Cheese
Creamy and Comforting
This all-time favorite dish is creamy, cheesy, and soul-satisfying.
Quick and Easy
Why wait when you can have this comfort food ready in minutes?
Add-Ins Welcome
Mix in some bacon bits, veggies, or even some hot sauce for a kick.
26. Microwave Stuffed Peppers
Healthy and Wholesome
Bell peppers stuffed with a flavorful filling make for a tasty and nutritious meal.
Easy Prep and Cook
Minimal prep and quick microwave cooking make this a go-to dish.
Mix Your Filling
From ground meat to grains, choose what goes into your peppers.
27. Microwave Baked Apples
Healthy Dessert Option
Apples filled with a mix of cinnamon, nuts, and raisins, make for a warm and comforting dessert.
Quick Sweet Treat
No need for an oven to enjoy this classic dessert.
Serve With Style
Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel.
28. Microwave Poached Eggs
Quick Breakfast Fix
Get perfectly poached eggs without the hassle of boiling water or special techniques.
Healthy Start
Start your day with protein-packed poached eggs without added fats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over toast, in a salad, or even with some smoked salmon for a gourmet touch.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or just pressed for time, this list proves that the humble microwave can be your best culinary friend. With a range of dishes spanning multiple cuisines and occasions, there’s something for everyone. So the next time your stomach grumbles and you dread the idea of cooking, remember these easy microwave recipes that promise delicious results in a fraction of the usual time.
