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Quick and Easy Microwave Meal Prep: Delicious Pasta in Just 4 Minutes!


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  • Author: Raven
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Who said you need a stovetop to enjoy a delicious plate of pasta? With this Quick and Easy Microwave Pasta, you can prepare a hearty meal in no time. Featuring a rich, savory beef sauce with fresh vegetables and perfectly cooked spaghetti, this recipe is perfect for busy nights, lazy weekends, or even quick meal prep. Enjoy a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s ready in minutes!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Spaghetti Sauce:

  • 800g canned whole tomatoes
  • 300g minced beef
  • 100g onion, chopped
  • 80g bell pepper, diced
  • 40g unsalted butter
  • 30g garlic, minced
  • 35g celery, chopped
  • 70g ketchup
  • 10g sugar
  • 2 tsp oregano
  • 5g salt
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 70g water

For the Spaghetti Noodles:

  • 300g spaghetti noodles
  • A pinch of salt
  • Olive oil for tossing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spaghetti Sauce

  1. Cook the Vegetables and Beef:

    • In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery. Add the butter and microwave on high for 2 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
    • Stir in the minced beef, breaking it apart with a fork or spoon. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes until the beef is fully cooked.
  2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:

    • Slightly drain the canned whole tomatoes and add them to the bowl. Use a spoon to crush the tomatoes.
    • Stir in ketchup, sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and water. Mix well.
  3. Cook the Sauce:

    • Microwave the sauce on high for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
    • The sauce should thicken, and the flavors should meld together. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

2. Cook the Spaghetti Noodles

  1. Prepare the Noodles:

    • Break the spaghetti in half and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Submerge the noodles in water and add a pinch of salt.
  2. Cook the Pasta:

    • Microwave on high for 4-6 minutes, stirring halfway through. Check for doneness after 4 minutes to ensure the noodles are al dente.
    • Drain the noodles carefully and toss them with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

3. Combine and Serve

  1. Mix the Sauce and Pasta:

    • Pour the prepared spaghetti sauce over the cooked noodles. Gently toss to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
  2. Serve:

    • Divide the pasta into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for extra flavor.

Notes

  • If you’re making this for meal prep, store the sauce and pasta separately to avoid soggy noodles.
  • Use high-quality canned tomatoes for a richer sauce flavor.
  • Adjust the spices and seasoning to suit your taste.
  • Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Microwave
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired