Masala Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is a true American classic - creamy, rich and always comforting.

This version takes things a step further by adding Indian spices and a simple tadka on top. You still get all the smooth, cheesy goodness you love, but with warm notes of garam masala, cumin, and mustard seeds.

It’s an easy way to turn familiar pasta into something a little more exciting without much extra effort. Perfect for when you want a cozy meal with a twist.

Print Recipe

Masala Mac and Cheese

A creamy American classic with an Indian twist. Cheesy macaroni seasoned with garam masala and topped with a sizzling tadka of mustard seeds, cumin, and green chili. Comforting, flavorful, and easy to make.

Prep Time10 minutes mins

Cook Time20 minutes mins

Course: Main Course

Servings: 4

Calories: 569kcal

Ingredients

• 250 g macaroni or pasta of choice
• 2 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 500 ml milk warm
• 150 g grated cheddar or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garam masala lightly toasted in a dry pan
• Optional: a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika For the tadka spiced tempering:
• 1 tablespoon ghee or neutral oil
• 1 teaspoon black mustard seeds
• 5-6 curry leaves optional but recommended
• 1 green chili finely sliced
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

• Boil the pasta Cook the macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Make the cheese sauce In a saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux. Slowly add the warm milk while whisking until smooth. Cook until thickened.
• Stir in the cheese, toasted garam masala, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Mix until melted and creamy.
• Add pasta to sauce Stir the drained pasta into the sauce until well coated.
• Make the tadka In a small pan, heat the ghee. Add mustard seeds and let them pop. Add cumin seeds, curry leaves, and green chili. Sauté for 30 seconds.
• Finish Pour the tadka over the mac and cheese and mix gently or serve it drizzled on top.

Notes

• Toasting the garam masala helps bring out its aroma—don’t skip this step.
• Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce.
• If you prefer less heat, leave out the green chili and chili flakes.
• The tadka is optional but really adds a nice layer of flavor.

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Recipe Twist Ideas:

• Veggie Boost: Stir in cooked peas, spinach, or roasted cauliflower.
• Crunchy Top: Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and bake for 10 minutes until golden.
• Protein Add-In: Mix in shredded cooked chicken or chickpeas.
• Extra Spice: Add a pinch of garam masala to the tadka for even more warmth.
• Different Cheese: Try a mix of sharp cheddar and pepper jack for extra kick.

Nutrition

Calories: 569kcal | Carbohydrates: 58g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 78mg | Sodium: 381mg | Potassium: 377mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 763IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 443mg | Iron: 1mg