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.
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
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.
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