15 Quick Microwave Dinner Recipes for Easy Meals

Microwave dinners are a lifesaver for busy evenings when time is short.

They allow you to prepare tasty, satisfying meals quickly without sacrificing flavor.

From one-pot dishes to simple reheats, the microwave can create family-friendly dinners in minutes.

These recipes use common ingredients and minimal prep, making weeknight cooking stress-free.

These 15 microwave dinner recipes provide easy, delicious options that save time while keeping meals nutritious and enjoyable.

15 Quick Microwave Dinner Recipes for Easy Meals

Microwave dinners are perfect for busy schedules and anyone who wants a quick, tasty meal.

With these 15 recipes, you can enjoy flavorful dinners without spending hours in the kitchen.

They combine convenience, nutrition, and variety, making them ideal for weeknights or last-minute meals.

Using the microwave creatively can help you prepare balanced meals that the whole family will enjoy.

These recipes show that fast dinners can also be delicious, satisfying, and simple to make.

Microwave Veggie Mac and Cheese

A quick, comforting dinner made entirely in the microwave using pasta, vegetables, and cheese.

It is creamy, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights.

The texture is tender pasta coated in a rich, cheesy sauce with soft vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 cup water
• ½ cup broccoli florets
• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine macaroni and water.
• Microwave on high for 5 minutes, stirring halfway, until pasta is tender.
• Add broccoli florets and microwave for an additional 2–3 minutes until broccoli is soft.
• Drain any excess water carefully to avoid spills.
• Stir in shredded cheese, milk, salt, and pepper until fully melted and creamy.
• Microwave for 30–60 seconds more if needed to melt the cheese completely.
• Serve immediately while warm for a quick and satisfying dinner.

Cheese provides protein while broccoli adds fiber and vitamins.

It is a fast, comforting, and nutritious microwave dinner suitable for any busy night.

Microwave Quinoa and Vegetable Bowl

A wholesome, protein-packed dinner using quinoa, mixed vegetables, and simple seasonings.

It is light, nutritious, and ready in minutes using only a microwave.

The texture is fluffy quinoa combined with tender, slightly crisp vegetables.

Ingredients

• ½ cup quinoa
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 tbsp soy sauce or lemon juice

Instructions

• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine quinoa and water.
• Microwave on high for 6–8 minutes, stirring halfway through, until quinoa is cooked and fluffy.
• Add frozen mixed vegetables and drizzle with olive oil.
• Microwave for an additional 3–4 minutes until vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
• Season with salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce or lemon juice.
• Stir gently to combine all ingredients and serve warm.

Quinoa provides complete protein while vegetables contribute fiber and essential nutrients.

It is a quick, healthy, and filling microwave dinner ideal for busy evenings.

Microwave Egg and Veggie Frittata

A protein-rich, carb-light dinner made entirely in the microwave with eggs and fresh vegetables.

It is fluffy, flavorful, and ready in under 10 minutes.

The texture is tender eggs with soft, slightly crisp vegetables evenly cooked throughout.

Ingredients

• 3 large eggs
• ¼ cup milk
• ½ cup chopped bell peppers
• ¼ cup chopped onion
• 2 tbsp shredded cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Instructions

• Lightly spray a microwave-safe bowl with cooking spray.
• Whisk eggs with milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and frothy.
• Stir in chopped bell peppers, onion, and cheese.
• Microwave on high for 3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even cooking.
• Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until eggs are fully set and cooked through.
• Let cool slightly before serving to maintain structure and texture.

Eggs provide high-quality protein while vegetables add vitamins and fiber.

It is a quick, satisfying, and nutritious microwave dinner perfect for busy nights or a light meal.

Microwave Lentil and Vegetable Stew

A hearty, meatless dinner made with lentils, vegetables, and flavorful seasonings in minutes.

It is protein-rich, filling, and perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal.

The texture is tender lentils in a slightly thick, savory vegetable broth.

Ingredients

• ½ cup dried red lentils
• 1 cup water
• ½ cup chopped carrots
• ½ cup chopped celery
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 1 tsp olive oil
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine lentils and water.
• Microwave on high for 4–5 minutes, then stir and add chopped carrots, celery, onion, olive oil, and garlic powder.
• Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plate to prevent splatters.
• Microwave on high for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway, until lentils are tender and vegetables are cooked.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Let stew sit for 1–2 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

Lentils provide plant-based protein while vegetables add fiber and nutrients.

It is a warm, hearty, and nutritious microwave dinner perfect for weeknight convenience.

Microwave Sweet Potato and Black Bean Bowl

A fast, flavorful dinner using sweet potatoes, black beans, and simple seasonings.

It is high in fiber, protein, and ready in minutes using a microwave.

The texture combines soft roasted-like sweet potatoes with tender black beans and a slightly saucy base.

Ingredients

• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
• ½ cup canned black beans, drained
• 1 tsp olive oil
• ½ tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: salsa or avocado for topping

Instructions

• Place diced sweet potato in a microwave-safe bowl and drizzle with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
• Cover loosely and microwave on high for 5–6 minutes, stirring halfway, until sweet potatoes are tender.
• Add black beans and microwave for an additional 1–2 minutes until heated through.
• Stir gently to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Serve topped with salsa or avocado if desired.

Sweet potatoes provide fiber and vitamins while black beans add protein and heartiness.

It is a quick, healthy, and satisfying microwave dinner suitable for family or solo meals

Microwave Cheesy Broccoli Rice

A quick, comforting dinner featuring fluffy rice, tender broccoli, and melted cheese.

It is protein-rich, creamy, and perfect for a fast weeknight meal.

The texture is soft rice combined with slightly crisp broccoli and smooth, melted cheese.

Ingredients

• 1 cup instant rice
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine instant rice and water.
• Microwave on high for 3–4 minutes until rice is cooked and fluffy.
• Add broccoli florets and stir to mix evenly.
• Microwave for an additional 2–3 minutes until broccoli is tender but still slightly crisp.
• Stir in shredded cheese, milk, salt, and pepper until cheese melts completely.
• Microwave for another 30–60 seconds if necessary to ensure a creamy texture.
• Serve immediately while warm for a comforting, nutritious dinner.

Cheese provides protein while broccoli adds fiber and vitamins.

It is a fast, flavorful, and family-friendly microwave dinner ideal for busy evenings.

Microwave Veggie Stir-Fry Bowl

A colorful, protein-rich microwave stir-fry with tofu and mixed vegetables.

It is light, nutritious, and ready in minutes for a hassle-free dinner.

The texture is tender-crisp vegetables combined with slightly firm, flavorful tofu cubes.

Ingredients

• ½ cup firm tofu, cubed
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

• Place tofu cubes in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high for 1–2 minutes to warm slightly.
• Add frozen mixed vegetables, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
• Cover loosely and microwave on high for 4–5 minutes, stirring halfway, until vegetables are tender and tofu is heated through.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
• Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving for added texture and flavor.

Tofu adds protein while vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

It is a quick, nutritious, and satisfying microwave dinner perfect for a weeknight meal.

Microwave Sweet Potato and Lentil Curry

A hearty, flavorful dinner combining sweet potatoes, lentils, and aromatic spices.

It is protein-packed, fiber-rich, and ready in under 20 minutes using a microwave.

The texture is tender sweet potatoes with soft, creamy lentils in a savory sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 medium sweet potato, diced
• ½ cup red lentils
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp curry powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

• Place diced sweet potato and red lentils in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Add water, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, and drizzle with olive oil.
• Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
• Cover loosely and microwave on high for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway, until sweet potatoes and lentils are tender.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving for added flavor and freshness.

Lentils provide protein while sweet potatoes add fiber, vitamins, and natural sweetness.

It is a comforting, nutritious, and flavorful microwave dinner suitable for family or solo meals.

Microwave Spinach and Cheese Quesadilla

A quick, protein-rich dinner featuring cheese and fresh spinach in a crispy tortilla.

It is cheesy, satisfying, and ready in just a few minutes using a microwave.

The texture is soft, melted cheese with tender spinach wrapped in a warm tortilla.

Ingredients

• 2 large flour tortillas
• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend)
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: salsa for serving

Instructions

• Place one tortilla on a microwave-safe plate.
• Evenly layer shredded cheese and fresh spinach on top of the tortilla.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Place the second tortilla on top and press gently.
• Microwave on high for 1–2 minutes until cheese is melted and spinach is slightly wilted.
• Cut into wedges and serve immediately with salsa if desired.

Cheese provides protein while spinach adds fiber, iron, and essential vitamins.

It is a fast, delicious, and satisfying microwave dinner suitable for busy weeknights.

Microwave Cauliflower Fried Rice

A low-carb, protein-rich dinner featuring cauliflower, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce.

It is light, nutritious, and ready in minutes for a quick weeknight meal.

The texture is tender cauliflower “rice” with soft vegetables and lightly scrambled eggs.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
• ½ cup chopped mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: green onions for garnish

Instructions

• Place cauliflower rice and chopped vegetables in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Drizzle with sesame oil and season with salt and pepper, then stir to combine.
• Cover loosely and microwave on high for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are tender.
• Make a small well in the center of the mixture and pour in the beaten egg.
• Microwave for another 1–2 minutes, stirring gently to scramble the egg evenly throughout the “rice.”
• Stir in soy sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Garnish with chopped green onions before serving for added freshness and flavor.

Cauliflower adds fiber while the egg provides protein, making it a complete, nutritious meal.

It is a fast, healthy, and satisfying microwave dinner perfect for family or solo meals

Microwave Spinach and Chickpea Curry

A quick, protein-rich curry featuring tender chickpeas and fresh spinach with aromatic spices.

It is flavorful, hearty, and ready in just 15 minutes using a microwave.

The texture is creamy, saucy, and packed with tender chickpeas and wilted spinach.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp cumin powder
• ½ tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp garam masala
• ½ cup tomato puree
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Place chopped onion and garlic in a microwave-safe bowl and drizzle with olive oil.
• Microwave on high for 2–3 minutes until onion becomes soft and translucent.
• Stir in cumin, turmeric, and garam masala and microwave for 30 seconds to release flavors.
• Add chickpeas and tomato puree, stirring to combine evenly.
• Microwave covered for 4–5 minutes, stirring halfway, until chickpeas are heated through and sauce thickens slightly.
• Stir in fresh spinach and microwave for an additional 1–2 minutes until spinach is wilted.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.

Chickpeas provide protein while spinach adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

It is a nutritious, quick, and satisfying microwave dinner perfect for busy weeknights.

Microwave Eggplant and Tomato Bake

A simple, flavorful dinner with roasted eggplant, tomato, and herbs, made entirely in the microwave.

It is light, wholesome, and perfect for a fast family meal.

The texture is tender eggplant with a soft, slightly saucy tomato topping.

Ingredients

• 1 medium eggplant, sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tsp olive oil
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: grated cheese for topping

Instructions

• Arrange eggplant slices in a microwave-safe dish and drizzle with olive oil.
• Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
• Microwave on high for 4–5 minutes until eggplant is tender.
• Add chopped tomatoes and sprinkle oregano on top.
• Cover loosely and microwave for 3–4 minutes until tomatoes soften and release their juices.
• Optional: sprinkle cheese over the top and microwave for an additional 1 minute until melted.
• Let cool slightly before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Eggplant provides fiber and antioxidants while tomatoes add vitamins and flavor.

It is a quick, wholesome, and satisfying meatless microwave dinner.

Microwave Mushroom and Pea Risotto

A creamy, comforting risotto made in the microwave with mushrooms, peas, and cheese.

It is rich in protein, quick to prepare, and perfect for a cozy dinner.

The texture is soft, creamy, and slightly cheesy with tender mushrooms and peas.

Ingredients

• 1 cup arborio rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• ½ cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine arborio rice and vegetable broth.
• Microwave uncovered on high for 6–7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Add sliced mushrooms and peas, stir gently to combine.
• Cover loosely and microwave for 5–6 more minutes, stirring occasionally until rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
• Stir in Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
• Let risotto sit for 1–2 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

Mushrooms provide umami flavor while cheese adds protein and creaminess.

It is a quick, comforting, and hearty microwave dinner suitable for any night.

Microwave Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

A low-carb, cheesy dinner made with cauliflower “rice” and melted cheese.

It is creamy, protein-rich, and ready in minutes for a simple, satisfying meal.

The texture is tender cauliflower with smooth, gooey cheese coating every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cauliflower rice
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp mustard powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

• Place cauliflower rice in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high for 3–4 minutes until tender.
• Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, milk, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
• Microwave for another 1–2 minutes until cheese melts completely and mixture becomes creamy.
• Stir thoroughly to coat all cauliflower evenly.
• Optional: sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving for color and freshness.

Cauliflower adds fiber and nutrients while cheese provides protein and richness.

It is a fast, flavorful, and low-carb microwave dinner perfect for busy evenings.

Microwave Sweet Corn and Potato Chowder

A creamy, hearty chowder made in the microwave with potatoes, corn, and milk.

It is comforting, protein-rich, and ready in just 15 minutes.

The texture is soft, creamy potatoes combined with tender corn kernels in a savory broth.

Ingredients

• 1 medium potato, diced
• ½ cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• 1 tsp butter or olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped chives for garnish

Instructions

• Place diced potato, corn, butter or olive oil, and vegetable broth in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Cover loosely and microwave on high for 6–8 minutes, stirring halfway, until potatoes are tender.
• Stir in milk, salt, and pepper and microwave for an additional 2–3 minutes until chowder is creamy and heated through.
• Adjust seasoning if necessary.
• Optional: sprinkle chopped chives on top before serving for added flavor.

Potatoes provide fiber and vitamins while corn adds natural sweetness and nutrients.

It is a warm, satisfying, and easy microwave dinner perfect for weeknight convenience.