Hello Laura. Cooking boxed macaroni and cheese in the microwave is quite simple once you know the right ratios and precautions to prevent starchy water from boiling over.
First, choose a deep, microwave-safe ceramic or glass bowl. Standard cereal bowls are too shallow and will easily boil over as the starch bubbles up. Add the dry pasta to the bowl and pour in 1 and 3/4 cups of cold water. The water should cover the noodles by about a half-inch.
Place the bowl in your microwave uncovered. Cook on high power for 7 to 8 minutes in total, but pause halfway through around the 4-minute mark to give everything a quick stir. Stirring breaks up the surface tension and ensures the pasta cooks evenly. If your microwave is particularly powerful and you notice the water rising too close to the rim, you can reduce the power level to 70 percent or 80 percent for the remaining time.
Once the pasta is tender, carefully remove the bowl using oven mitts, as it will be very hot. You do not need to drain every drop of liquid, because the residual starchy water actually helps emulsify the cheese sauce. If there is still a significant amount of excess water at the bottom, pour off just a little bit.
Finally, add 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine, 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk, and the Cheetos seasoning packet. Stir thoroughly until the powder completely dissolves into a smooth, creamy sauce. Let it rest for about 1 to 2 minutes so the sauce can fully thicken before eating. Good luck with your study session!
