Microwaving pasta in a pasta cooker is a quick and easy way to prepare pasta. The cooking time will vary depending on the amount and type of pasta, the wattage of your microwave, and the design of the pasta cooker. Here are some tips for microwaving pasta successfully in a pasta cooker:
Amount of Pasta
The more pasta you cook, the longer it will take to microwave. For a single serving, plan on microwaving for 2-4 minutes. For 2 servings, microwave for 4-6 minutes. For 3-4 servings, microwave for 6-8 minutes. Check pasta frequently and add more time if needed.
Type of Pasta
The shape and size of the pasta impacts cooking time. Small pastas like elbow macaroni or mini penne will cook faster than large pastas like ziti or rigatoni. Estimate 2-3 minutes for small pastas, 4-5 minutes for medium pastas, and 6-8 minutes for large pastas.
Microwave Wattage
Higher wattage microwaves will cook pasta faster than lower wattages. For a 1000-watt microwave, start with the lowest recommended cooking time. For an 800-watt microwave, add 1-2 minutes. For a 600-700 watt microwave, add 2-3 minutes.
Pasta Cooker Design
Deep pasta cookers designed for the microwave will cook pasta more evenly and prevent boiling over. Shallow cookware will require more cooking time and frequent stirring. If boiling over is an issue, try a deeper microwave-safe container.
Tips for Microwaving Pasta
- Use at least 1 cup water per 1 cup pasta
- Stir pasta halfway through cooking
- Partially cover but leave vent for steam to escape
- After cooking, let pasta stand, covered, for 1-2 minutes before serving
- Add extra time in 30 second increments if pasta is not tender
Microwave Pasta Cooking Times
As a general guide, here are approximate cooking times for common pasta shapes:
| Pasta Type | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| Small shapes (elbow, mini penne) | 2-4 minutes |
| Medium shapes (fusilli, farfalle) | 4-6 minutes |
| Large shapes (ziti, rigatoni) | 6-8 minutes |
Tips for Cooking Pasta Perfectly
For the best results when cooking pasta in the microwave, keep these tips in mind:
- Use a microwave-safe container deep enough to accommodate stirring and prevent boiling over.
- Allow at least 1-2 inches of headspace for pasta to swell as it cooks.
- Add salt and oil to the cooking water which can help prevent foaming and sticking.
- Cook pasta uncovered to allow steam to escape, but microwaves vary so monitor closely.
- Stir pasta once halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Check pasta frequently as microwaves can cook unevenly. Better to slightly undercook and add time.
- Drain cooked pasta immediately to prevent overcooking.
- Let drained pasta stand 1-2 minutes covered to finish cooking.
- Avoid refrigerating cooked pasta longer than 3-5 days as it continues to dry out and lose quality.
Choosing a Microwave Pasta Cooker
Specialty microwave pasta cookers can make preparing pasta in the microwave quick and reliable. Here’s what to look for when selecting a pasta cooker for the microwave:
- Deep basin design – Deep containers prevent boiling over.
- Venting lid – Allows steam to escape while containing splatters.
- Microwave-safe – Ensure BPA-free plastic or glass that won’t react to microwave heat.
- Easy to grip – Handles allow lifting out of hot water safely.
- Pour spout – Allows neat, mess-free draining.
- Steamer insert – A basket or perforated pot makes quick steaming of veggies.
- Stackable – Some models can stack to save storage space.
Microwave Pasta Recipe Ideas
Once you’ve mastered the basics of microwaving pasta, try out these quick and easy microwave pasta recipes:
Cheesy Tomato Pasta
Mix cooked pasta with canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and shredded mozzarella or parmesan. Microwave until hot and cheese is melted.
Tuna Casserole
Combine cooked pasta, canned tuna, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, and shredded cheddar cheese. Top with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs and microwave until bubbly.
Macaroni and Cheese
Mix cooked pasta with milk, shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Microwave until hot and creamy. Stir occasionally. Optional add-ins include cooked broccoli, ham, or bacon.
Cheesy Pesto Pasta
Toss cooked pasta in pesto sauce, diced tomatoes, and parmesan cheese. Microwave until hot. Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Ranch Chicken Pasta
Combine cooked pasta, shredded rotisserie chicken, ranch dressing, cheese, and frozen vegetables. Microwave until fully heated. Garnish with bacon bits.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Microwave Pasta
Microwaved pasta holds up well for leftovers. Follow these storage tips:
- Let pasta cool slightly before refrigerating.
- Store cooked pasta in airtight container up to 5 days.
- To freeze – drain pasta well, portion, and freeze in air-tight bags up to 2-3 months.
- Reheat refrigerated pasta loosely covered in microwave until hot, adding water as needed.
- Reheat frozen pasta by running under hot water until thawed.
Conclusion
Cooking pasta in the microwave can be fast and convenient with the right techniques and cookware. Use a deep microwave-safe pasta cooker with vented lid. Allow 1-2 inches headspace. Cook uncovered, stirring halfway with timing based on pasta amount and type. Check frequently for doneness. Drain immediately once tender and let stand 1-2 minutes before serving. Microwave pasta cooks perfectly al dente in just minutes for quick weeknight meals.