:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/237311-slow-cooker-mac-and-cheese-nataliet-3x2-1-b5fdaed47b8840d9963c1fc243346be4.jpg)
Maybe you’re living in a dorm or a small apartment without a stove. Maybe your kitchen is finally getting that long-overdue renovation. Or maybe it’s hot outside, and the last thing you want to do is heat up the whole place. Whatever the reason, you’re staring at your microwave wondering if it’s good for anything besides reheating leftovers. The answer might surprise you. With the right recipes, you can make everything from meatloaf and tacos to broccoli and cheese and even risotto—all thanks to these microwave-friendly dishes.
Microwave Baked Potato
DOTDASH MEREDITH FOOD STUDIOS
“Super easy, they came out great. The more holes you poke the better. I did put 4 potatoes in at once and added an additional 5 mins also.” —Angela Nadeau
Mom’s Goulash in the Microwave
“My husband is so picky about LOVING a recipe, but he’s already asking for me to fix this one again. I left out the caraway as I had none. Don’t think I’ll ever add it. One of the best I’ve ever made.” —Cindy
Shelby’s Microwave Meatloaf
“Made a few changes. We used spaghetti sauce instead of plain tomato and added Velveeta cheese to the meat and the topping. Delish!” —cdwinn86
Microwave Macaroni and Cheese
“So easy and good! I followed the instructions as written. Totally 5 star mac and cheese!” —eriemermaid
Microwave Tacos
“While my kitchen was being remodeled I didn’t think we could have nachos or tacos, but this recipe made it possible. I would have never thought of cooking beef in the microwave until I didn’t have a stove. Now I know how easy it is, I might always make my taco meat this way.” —Julie
Cheesy Cauliflower in the Microwave
“Microwave cauliflower can be prepped, cooked, and on your table in less than 20 minutes. Your family will love this cheesy dish.” —Yoly
Prawn Biryani
“I was apprehensive in the beginning – who makes a biryani using microvave !! But I must say this turned out really well (I just added some more than salt than I am used to). Will try this again this w/e and add some vegetables.” —Asif Zaidi
Loga’s Microwave Chicken
“When I first put this together, I started to wonder if it was a joke of a recipe. Mixing all that curry with ketchup was just seemed bizarre. But my hubby really likes it! SO easy. Will definitely be making it again.” —Eddrena Audu
Basic Microwave Risotto
“I followed the recipe to the letter, and produced a perfectly cooked, utterly delicious risotto! Am currently living without an oven and stove while I wait for mine to be repaired, and what a pleasant surprise that we can still enjoy one of our favorite meals!” —tickleyears
Cindy’s Microwave Chicken Parmesan
“Quick , easy and tasty, perfect for those busy or hot days when you don’t want to run your oven.” —Deb C
Quick and Easy Stuffed Peppers
“Followed recipe except for adding Rotel instead of stewed tomatoes to kick it up a notch – like spicy. Will make again!” —jzimmer
2-Minute Cheese Quesadillas
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
“I love this because you don’t dirty up a pan making the kids a snack, just the plate they are eating from! I have taught my 7 year old how to make these for herself and little sister.” —amandak23k
Minute Breakfast Burrito
Allrecipes / Qi Ai
“A fast DIY breakfast for the road that’s made in minutes with scrambled egg, salsa, and cheese wrapped up in a tortilla.” —Allrecipes Member
