Mustard Mac and Cheese in a Mug

Prep: 5 minCook: 10 min1 servingsmediumBritish
Mustard Mac and Cheese in a Mug

Single-serve macaroni and cheese cooked entirely in a microwave mug. Creamy Somerset Cheddar and wholegrain mustard create a tangy, savory sauce that cooks with the pasta. Frozen peas add freshness. Ready in about 10 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

1 servings
  • 2 ¾ oz macaroni pasta
  • 2 tbsp semi-skimmed milk
    whole milk1:1dairy
  • 1 tbsp light soft cheese
    cream cheese1:1dairy
  • ½ oz Somerset mature Cheddar
    any mature Cheddar1:1dairy
  • 1 tsp wholegrain mustard
    Dijon mustard1:1condiment
    Full guide →
  • 1 ¾ oz frozen British garden peas
    frozen peas (any)1:1vegetable
  • flat leaf parsley, chopped(optional)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Put the macaroni in a mug and fill with cold water until about ⅓" above the pasta.

  2. 2

    Microwave on medium for 7-10 minutes until the water is absorbed and pasta is almost done.

  3. 3

    Stir in the milk, both cheeses, and the mustard. Season to taste, then cook for 1 minute.

  4. 4

    Stir well, add the peas, and cook for another minute.

  5. 5

    Allow to stand and cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped flat leaf parsley.

Tips

Tip 1

Microwaves vary in power; start checking at 7 minutes to avoid overcooking the pasta.

Good to Know

Storage

Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in microwave with a splash of milk to loosen.

Make Ahead

Measure pasta and cheeses into a container. Assemble and cook when ready.

Serve With

Eat straight from the mug or transfer to a bowl. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Use too much water initially to avoid unabsorbed liquid making the mac soggy.

Watch

Skip the standing time to avoid burning your mouth on very hot cheese.

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

semi-skimmed milk
whole milk1:1dairy
Full guide →
Somerset mature Cheddar
any mature Cheddar1:1dairy
light soft cheese
cream cheese1:1dairy
Full guide →
Somerset mature Cheddar
nutritional yeast0.5:1vegandairy-free
Full guide →

Vegan Options

semi-skimmed milk
plant-based milk1:1vegan

General Alternatives

frozen British garden peas
frozen peas (any)1:1vegetable
wholegrain mustard
Dijon mustard1:1condiment
Full guide →
Find more substitutions →