There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of spaghettiOs, and now you can make them in just 10 minutes. This Homemade SpaghettiOs in a Mug recipe delivers the same nostalgic flavors with a fresh, homemade twist. Tender pasta swirls in a rich, tangy tomato sauce, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is quick. Perfect for busy days or late-night cravings, it’s a meal that feels indulgent yet effortless.
The creamy sauce clings to every bite of pasta, offering a velvety texture that’s both hearty and light. With just 5 minutes of prep and 5 minutes of cooking, this recipe is a lifesaver for anyone craving comfort food fast. The balance of sweet and savory flavors will have you savoring every spoonful, proving that great meals don’t need to take hours. It’s a little mug of happiness you’ll want to make again and again.
What You’ll Need
- ⅓ cup (1 ½ oz/45g) pasta (small shapes like macaroni or ditalini work best)
- 1 cup (8oz / 230g) water, hot (for cooking the pasta)
- 2 teaspoons cornflour (cornstarch) (acts as a thickener for the sauce)
- 4 tablespoons pasta sauce (tomato sauce) (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons milk (any type, for creaminess)
How to Make It
- In a large microwavable mug or bowl, combine the pasta and hot water. (Use a large mug to prevent boiling over.)
- Microwave on high for 3 ½ minutes or until the pasta is tender. (Timing may vary based on your microwave wattage.)
- Carefully pour off the remaining cooking water.
- Add the cornstarch, tomato sauce, and milk to the mug. Stir well to combine.
- Microwave for 60 seconds or until the sauce thickens. (The cornstarch will help create a creamy texture.)
- Stir thoroughly, season with salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy immediately!
Quick and Easy Sauce & Topping Ideas
Customize your Homemade SpaghettiOs with extra flavor! Try adding a pinch of garlic powder, a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, or a dash of red pepper flakes for a kick. For toppings, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate your dish instantly.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This mug meal is great on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a more complete meal. For a fun twist, serve it with a handful of crackers or a slice of toasted baguette for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Storage and Reheating Made Simple
If you have leftovers (though it’s so good, you might not!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 30-60 seconds, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
To save time, use pre-cooked pasta or leftover pasta from another meal. Just skip the initial cooking step and mix the pasta directly with the sauce, cornstarch, and milk. Microwave for 60 seconds, and you’re done!
Microwave Power Adjustments
Since microwaves vary in power, keep an eye on your pasta during cooking. If your microwave is less powerful (e.g., 900W), you may need to add an extra 30-60 seconds. For stronger microwaves, reduce the time slightly to avoid overcooking.
Homemade SpaghettiOs in a Mug
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup pasta 1 ½ oz/45g
- 1 cup water, hot 8oz / 230g
- 2 teaspoons cornflour (cornstarch)
- 4 tablespoons pasta sauce (tomato sauce)
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- In a large microwavable mug or large bowl add in the pasta and the water. You need a large mug as the water will boil up.
- Microwave for roughly another 3 ½ minutes or until tender. You want the pasta to be fully cooked. (timing is based on my 1200W microwave so your timing might vary)
- Pour off the remaining cooking water.
- Stir in the cornstarch, tomato sauce and milk and microwave for a final 60 seconds or until the sauce thickens. The cornstarch is the thickener for the sauce.
- Stir well, season with salt and pepper and enjoy.
