Step 1

Combine the pasta, water, and salt in a microwave-safe bowl. Place the pasta, water, and salt in a deep, microwave-safe bowl and stir to combine.

Step 2

Microwave the pasta for 2 minutes. Microwave on high power for 2 minutes, then stir. Watch to see if the water is foaming over the side of the bowl and stir earlier if needed. Use oven mitts or a kitchen towel if you need to move the bowl out of the microwave to do this.

Step 3

Continue microwaving in 2-minute intervals until the pasta is cooked. Continue microwaving in 2-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the pasta is soft and cooked through, 4 to 8 minutes more, depending on your microwave strength. If the pasta absorbs all the water before the pasta is cooked, add another 2 tablespoons of water.

Step 4

Stir the milk and cheese into the pasta. Use oven mitts or a kitchen towel to remove the bowl from the microwave. Stir in the milk, cheese, and any extra add-ins.

Step 5

Microwave in 30-second intervals to melt the cheese. Microwave on high power for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the cheese has melted and forms a creamy sauce, 1 to 1 1/2 minutes total. For a creamier sauce, add an extra tablespoon or two of milk and cheese.

Step 6

Eat immediately. This mac and cheese is best when piping hot from the microwave. If you need to reheat it, add an extra splash of milk.