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Spaghetti Bolognese in a mug served in terracotta ceramic mug with melted cheese

Spaghetti Bolognese in a Mug: 5-Minute Microwave Magic Recipe

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  • Author: Emma Brookstone
  • Prep Time: 2
  • Cook Time: 5
  • Total Time: 7
  • Yield: 1 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Microwave
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

Quick and easy spaghetti bolognese made right in your microwave-safe mug! This single-serving pasta dish combines authentic Italian flavors with modern convenience, delivering restaurant-quality results in just 5 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, college dorms, or whenever you’re craving comfort food fast.


Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup thin spaghetti pasta, broken into thirds

1/3 cup hot water

1/4 cup ground beef (80/20)

3 tablespoons crushed tomatoes

1 tablespoon beef broth

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)


Instructions

1. Place broken spaghetti in a large microwave-safe mug. Add hot water until pasta is covered by 1 inch.

2. Sprinkle raw ground beef evenly over pasta without stirring.

3. Mix crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl.

4. Spoon tomato mixture over the meat, creating distinct layers.

5. Cover mug with microwave-safe plate or plastic wrap.

6. Microwave on medium power (50%) for 4-5 minutes.

7. Carefully remove mug (it will be very hot) and stir everything together thoroughly.

8. Check pasta doneness; microwave additional 30 seconds if needed.

9. Season with salt and pepper, then top with Parmesan cheese.

10. Let rest 1 minute before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.


Notes

Microwave wattage varies, so adjust cooking time accordingly. Start with less time and add more as needed.

For vegetarian version, substitute ground meat with cooked lentils or mushrooms.

Recipe stores well refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Use a large 16-ounce capacity mug to prevent overflow.

Medium power prevents sauce splattering and ensures even cooking.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg