How to Cook Spaghetti in the Microwave
Prep Time
1 minCook Time
14-15 minsFree Time
learn about different shapes of pasta
Cooking spaghetti in the microwave using an Anyday dish provides a fast and convenient alternative for perfectly al dente noodles. This method saves valuable time and effort in the kitchen, offering a quick solution without compromising on quality. To ensure the pasta fits, you will need to break it in half (sorry Italy), a compromise we make for efficiency's sake.
This method is particularly suitable for long pasta shapes such as spaghetti, fettuccini, linguini, bucatini, and others.
With an Anyday dish, you can consistently cook pasta to "al dente" perfection without the need to constantly monitor a pot. While we love our vented lid for many reasons, we don’t recommend using it when cooking pasta in the microwave. The lid traps so much heat and steam that the starchy water can easily boil over, which is why we recommend cooking pasta uncovered. Still, getting spillover? Try using less water or lower your power level until you get it right!
All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwaves and home kitchens to make sure they work — and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.
What You’ll Need
What You’ll Need
The Large Deep Dish
The Strainer
Introducing: The Strainer! Flexible-yet-sturdy clips attach this clever ‘colander’ onto your Anyday dish, making it a master multitasker. Use this strainer on any size or shape Anyday dish.
The Anyhand Mitts
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti (linguine, bucatini, etc)
- 3 cups (720ml) water
Preparation
- Break the pasta in half (sorry, Italy) and place it along with the water in the Anyday dish, ensuring the water covers the pasta completely. Gently stir the pasta in the water to prevent the noodles from sticking together as they cook.
- Cook in the microwave uncovered for 14-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your liking. Try a noodle and add more time if needed!
- Using the Anyday Strainer, strain any excess water before serving or storing.
Serving suggestions & tips
- Easy Mushroom Marsala: Add sliced mushrooms 2-3 minutes before the pasta is done, then toss in mushroom gravy, heat for 1-2 more minutes.
- Lemon Asparagus: Add asparagus cut into small pieces 2-3 minutes before the pasta is done, then season with lemon zest and garlic, for a refreshing springtime meal.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: Combine chopped sun-dried tomatoes, basil pesto, and a touch of cream for a rich and tangy sauce to coat the pasta.
- Shrimp Scampi: Cook easy Shrimp Scampi, then mix with the noodles for an easy, complete meal.
Recipe notes
- Most pasta indicates the cook time on the package. If in doubt, use those instructions as a cook time guide.
- Is your water spilling over? Make sure to always use a Deep dish when making pasta. Depending on the amount, size up from Large to Extra Large.
- Want to experiment with a different pasta shape? Make sure that water is completely covering the before microwaving.
- Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Microwave Match Up: Spaghetti
See for yourself— microwaving spaghetti is simply faster, start to finish.
| Appliance | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| Microwave in an Anyday dish* | 11-13 mins |
| Stovetop* | 20-25 mins |
| Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker)* | 20 mins |
All You Need to Know About Cooking Spaghetti in the Microwave
How long does it take to cook spaghetti in the microwave?
| Ingredient | Water | Cook Time |
|---|---|---|
| 8 oz spaghetti (linguine, bucatini, etc) | 3 cups (720ml) water | 14-15 mins |
| 12 oz spaghetti (linguine, bucatini, etc) | 3½ (840ml) water | 15-16 mins |
| 16 oz spaghetti (linguine, bucatini, etc) | 4 cups (900ml) water | 17-18 mins |
| 20 oz spaghetti (linguine, bucatini, etc) | 6 cups (1410ml) water | 20-21 mins |
Cooking long noodles like spaghetti in the microwave depends on the amount of pasta, but generally takes 11-13 minutes per 8 ounces. To tell if the pasta is cooked through, taste it! The pasta should be tender but slightly firm, with no hard center.
Can I cook different sized pasta shapes in the microwave?
Yes, most varieties of pasta can be cooked in the microwave including penne or pastina. While cooking times will vary slightly, the microwave steps remain largely the same, making pasta a convenient and adaptable choice for microwave cooking.
Why do I need to break the pasta in half?
We know we are likely offending a whole country when we suggest breaking the pasta in half, but the truth of the matter is, it will not fit otherwise!! This should not stop you from cooking pasta in an Anyday dish, so yes, snap away now and ask for forgiveness latter!
What's the best way to dress up spaghetti cooked it in the microwave?
Nothing beats a good sauce! Try our Quick Bolognese, Easy Tomato Sauce, Shortcut Bechamel, Romesco Sauce, or how does Shrimp Scampi over spaghetti sounds? All this and more options to dress up your perfectly cooked spaghetti can be found in our recipe library.
How do I know when spaghetti is properly cooked in the microwave?
Long noodles are properly cooked when they are tender to the bite while retaining a slightly crispy center. If you're unsure, taste a strand for doneness. Pasta texture is very personal, if you like your pasta more cooked, make sure to add 1/4 cup extra water and cook for 2-4 more minutes. Remember, microwaves vary, so adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I store leftover microwaved pasta?
Store leftover microwaved pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator or in the Anyday dish, with the lid and the knob pressed down to lock in freshness. Makes sure to pack away cooked pasta only once it has cool down fully to avoid food borne illnesses. It typically stays fresh for 3-4 days. To reheat, sprinkle the surface with a few water droplets, and microwave it in an Anyday dish for a few minutes, checking periodically for the desired temperature.
