Masala mac and cheese. This easy stovetop cheesy macaroni is a delicious combination of classic mac and cheese and aromatic spices. The variation of the popular mac and cheese incorporates spices to make it extra flavorful. The vibrant cream based sauce is simply sensational bringing in the classic flavors of Indian cooking. A simple dish the whole family will love!
A good mac and cheese is hands down one of the most delicious comfort food perfect for cold winter days. While the classic version of this dish is super delicious, I think I need to introduce you to a different version of this beautiful Thanksgiving side dish. Well, it’s perfect for any time of the year, not just the holiday season.
Masala mac and cheese. The traditional laced with beautiful aromatic spices. A bit different from the regular version, this easy cheesy recipe brings in vibrant flavorful sauce that’s extra creamy and super delicious. Honestly, it’s like a warm hug on a cold winter night. If you are a huge fan of the classic cheesy macaroni, get ready to take your culinary experience to another level.
How To Make Masala Mac And Cheese
As I mentioned, this recipe is slightly different from your regular mac and cheese. As the vibrant creamy sauce is thick and delicious, you will not need to make a roux. Ok, read on to learn more about this easy stovetop macaroni recipe.
Start with cooking macaroni or cute little elbow pasta until perfectly cooked or al dente. Drain the pasta, and don’t forget to reserve some cooking water.
Next up, the creamy red sauce. Trust me, this is going to be sensationally good and delicious without the addition of flour to make the roux. To make the sauce, start with sautéing some garlic and onions. When the onions are soft, stir in tomato paste. I also like to add a few spices like red chili powder and ground turmeric to increase the heat level of the sauce.
Now, stir in cream. You can also add in a little pasta water. Simmer this beautiful sauce for luscious mac and cheese for about 2-3 minutes.
The final stage of cooking involves stirring in macaroni and plenty of cheese. With the cheese, I only want grated cheddar in this recipe. Keep it as simple as possible! A generous sprinkle of chopped coriander (cilantro) leaves add the final touch.
A beautiful Thanksgiving side dish or a comforting weeknight meal! Either way, it’s going to be absolutely delish!
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Yield: 4
Masala Mac And Cheese | Video
Masala mac and cheese featuring macaroni tossed in creamy cheesy sauce
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 3/4 cup heavy (thickened) cream
- 1 cup grated cheddar
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped coriander (cilantro) leaves, to garnish
Instructions
- Place macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Check package for cooking instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water. Drain. Set aside.
- Heat oil in a large frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic. Sauté, stirring, for a few seconds or until fragrant.
- Add onions. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes or until soft and translucent.
- Add tomato paste. Sauté, stirring, for 1 minute.
- Add Italian seasoning, red chili powder and garam masala. Sauté, stirring, for few seconds.
- Stir in cream. Add pasta water if needed. Season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add macaroni, grated cheddar and butter. Stir to combine. Garnish with coriander (cilantro) leaves.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 290Total Fat 16gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 36mgSodium 298mgCarbohydrates 25gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 11g
The nutritional data is for information purposes only
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