15 Foods You Didn’t Know You Could Cook in a Microwave

The microwave is often underestimated in the kitchen, known mostly for reheating leftovers or making popcorn. However, this everyday appliance can do much more than that. From snacks to full meals, there are countless dishes you can whip up in minutes using just your microwave.

Scrambled Eggs

Crack two eggs into a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of milk, and season with salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture until fully combined, then microwave on high for 45 seconds. Stir, then microwave for another 30-45 seconds until the eggs are set. Top with shredded cheese or herbs, and you’re ready to enjoy a quick and easy breakfast.

Mac and Cheese

In a microwave-safe mug, combine 1/2 cup of elbow macaroni and 1/2 cup of water. Microwave on high for 4 minutes, stirring halfway through. Once the pasta is cooked, add 1/4 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of shredded cheese. Stir well and microwave for an additional 30 seconds until the cheese is melted and creamy.

Baked Potatoes

Pierce a medium potato several times with a fork, then place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, turning halfway through. Check for doneness by inserting a fork; if it goes in easily, the potato is ready. Slice open, fluff with a fork, and add your favorite toppings like butter, cheese, or sour cream.

Brownies in a Mug

Mix 1/4 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, a pinch of salt, 2 tablespoons of water, and 2 tablespoons of oil in a microwave-safe mug. Stir until smooth, then microwave on high for 1 minute. Let it cool slightly before digging into this single-serving treat.

Steamed Vegetables

Place a cup of your favorite vegetables, like broccoli or carrots, in a microwave-safe dish with a tablespoon of water. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes. The veggies should be tender and bright. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil.

Poached Eggs

Fill a microwave-safe mug with 1/2 cup of water, crack an egg into it, and gently poke the yolk with a fork. Microwave on high for 50-60 seconds until the egg white is set but the yolk is still runny. Carefully remove the egg with a slotted spoon and enjoy it on toast or with a salad.

French Toast

In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together one egg, 3 tablespoons of milk, a pinch of cinnamon, and a drop of vanilla extract. Tear up a slice of bread and add it to the mixture, pressing it down to soak. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes until the egg is cooked through and the bread is fluffy. Top with syrup or powdered sugar.

Rice

Combine 1/2 cup of rice with 1 cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate and microwave on high for 9-10 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power. Let it sit for a few minutes after cooking, then fluff with a fork before serving.

Corn on the Cob

Place a whole ear of corn (in the husk) in the microwave and cook on high for 4 minutes. Let it cool slightly before peeling off the husk and silk. The corn will be perfectly steamed, ready to eat as is, or with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of salt.

Mug Cake

In a microwave-safe mug, mix 1/4 cup of flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder, 2 tablespoons of milk, 1 tablespoon of oil, and a drop of vanilla extract. Stir until smooth, then microwave on high for 1 minute and 30 seconds. Let it cool before enjoying your quick cake.

Garlic Bread

Spread butter and minced garlic on a slice of bread, then sprinkle with a pinch of parsley or Italian seasoning. Place the slice on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 30-40 seconds until the butter is melted and the bread is warm. It’s an easy side dish or snack.

Sweet Potatoes

Pierce a sweet potato several times with a fork, place it on a microwave-safe plate, and microwave on high for 5-7 minutes, turning halfway through. Check for doneness by inserting a fork. Once cooked, split it open and top with butter, cinnamon, and a drizzle of honey.

Fish Fillet

Place a fish fillet, like salmon or tilapia, in a microwave-safe dish. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent, and microwave on high for 3-4 minutes until the fish is flaky and cooked through.

Oatmeal

Combine 1/2 cup of rolled oats with 1 cup of water or milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Once thickened, add your favorite toppings like fruit, nuts, or honey for a hearty breakfast.

Quinoa

Rinse 1/2 cup of quinoa under cold water, then combine it with 1 cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate and microwave on high for 6-8 minutes. Let it sit for a few minutes before fluffing with a fork. Use it as a base for salads or side dishes.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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