Masala Macaroni | Indian Style Macaroni

Masala Macaroni: A flavorful, vegan Indian-style pasta made with macaroni and aromatic spices. This pasta dish can be made in no time from scratch or using homemade Bhuna Masala. You can make this one-pot dish in an Instant Pot or stovetop.

This Instant Pot Masala Macaroni has macaroni pasta flavored with Indian spices. It’s spicy, packed with flavors, one-pot and makes meals easy for busy days.

When I was in school, pasta was just introduced to Indian cuisine. My mom would make this masala macaroni aka Indian-style Macaroni. Me and my brother used to enjoy this masala macaroni with some ketchup. It was quite filling and delicious too.

Now, I pack this for my kid's lunch box and they love it! The lunch box always comes back home empty when I pack this macaroni in their lunch box.

This masala macaroni is catered to Indian taste buds. The blend of Indian spices gives this dish a distinct flavor profile. Typically, this Indian pasta does not have any cream or cheese. But, you can add cheese to your liking.

I love this Indian fusion pasta. I grew up eating this masala macaroni and have fond memories associated with it. The blend of Indian spices with the creamy pasta creates an explosion of flavors in every bite. It's a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great option for family meals.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s quick to make and doesn't require elaborate preparation. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftover vegetables.

In today's fast-paced world, we often look for recipes that are quick, easy, and delicious. Instant Pot Masala Macaroni fits the bill perfectly. This fusion dish combines the comfort of macaroni with the bold, vibrant flavors of Indian spices, all cooked conveniently in an Instant Pot.

If you like the crunchy veggies, go with stovetop method. While Instant Pot, gives you convenience of one-pot meal, the veggies do not retain their texture.

Making pasta in Instant Pot is a breeze, like this Broccoli Cheese Pasta or creamy Pasta With Mushrooms And Marsala Wine.

Jump to:

• About Masala Macaroni
• Why You'll Love Instant Pot Masala Macaroni
• Ingredients
• How To Make Masala Macaroni
• Tips and Variations
• Masala Macaroni | Indian Style Macaroni

About Masala Macaroni

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the universal appeal of macaroni. But what happens when this classic Western favorite meets the bold and vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine?

Masala Macaroni—a fusion dish that brings the best of both worlds to your plate. This recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional macaroni, combining the rich spices and herbs of Indian cooking with the comfort of Italian pasta.

Why You'll Love Instant Pot Masala Macaroni

• Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Meal: Less cleanup is needed since everything cooks in one pot.
• Flavorful Fusion: The combination of Indian spices with pasta creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite vegetables and proteins.

Ingredients

Elbow macaroni pasta: For this recipe, I have used the regular elbow macaroni, these come in different sizes, I used the small ones.

Veggies: I have used onions, tomatoes, peppers, peas since this is what my family loves. Feel free to add veggies of your choice such as green beans, corn, carrots etc.

Note: You can skip the sautéing of onions and tomatoes, and use homemade Bhuna Masala to make this masala macaroni. You'll need ¾ cup of homemade Bhuna Masala, cooked macaroni, veggies, and salt to taste.

Spices: I have used basic Indian spices - coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric, and garam masala. Sometimes, I also add dried herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning.

Tomato ketchup: For sweet and a bit tangy flavor, use ketchup. This is optional but it gives pasta a nice kick. If you like spicy, try my homemade hot sauce!

How To Make Masala Macaroni

You can make masala macaroni on a stovetop or in an Instant Pot. Sharing recipes for both the methods:

Stovetop Masala Macaroni

Note: You can skip Step 2 - Step 6, and use homemade Bhuna Masala to make this masala macaroni. You'll need ¾ cup of homemade Bhuna Masala, cooked macaroni, veggies, and salt to taste.

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, as per package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: In a large pan, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.

Step 3: Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn light brown.

Step 4: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.

Step 5: Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn mushy and oil starts to separate.

Step 6: Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes.

Step 7: Toss in the bell peppers, mixed vegetables, and green chilies. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 8: Add the cooked macaroni to the pan and mix well to coat the pasta with the masala. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 9: Sprinkle garam masala, ketchup (optional), and give it a final stir.

Step 10: Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

If you like, add some grated cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor and richness.

Serve the masala macaroni hot, either as a main dish or a side. It pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or even a refreshing raita.

Instant Pot Masala Macaroni

Instant Pot Masala Macaroni is a fantastic dish that combines convenience with bold flavors, making it a great addition to your weeknight meal rotation. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful fusion of tastes and textures!

Note: You can skip Step 2 - Step 6, and use homemade Bhuna Masala to make this masala macaroni. You'll need ¾ cup of homemade Bhuna Masala, cooked macaroni, veggies, and salt to taste.

Step 1: Set the Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode and let it heat up. Add the vegetable oil or ghee.

Step 2: Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.

Step 3: Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn light brown.

Step 4: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.

Step 5: Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn mushy.

Step 6: Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.

Step 7: Toss in the bell peppers, mixed vegetables, and green chilies. Cook for 2-3 minutes.

Step 8: Add the uncooked macaroni to the pot and mix well with the vegetables and spices.

Step 9: Pour in the water or vegetable broth, ensuring the macaroni is fully submerged. Stir everything together.

Step 10: Cancel the 'Sauté' mode. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the 'Sealing' position.

Step 11: Select 'Pressure Cook' or 'Manual' mode and set the timer for 4 minutes.

Step 12: Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to the 'Venting' position.

Step 13: Open the lid and give the macaroni a good stir. Add the garam masala, ketchup (optional), and mix well.

Step 14: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and, if desired, sprinkle grated cheese on top.

Serve the masala macaroni hot, either as a main dish or a side. It pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or a refreshing raita.

Tips and Variations

• Protein Boost: Add paneer cubes, tofu, or cooked chicken pieces for a protein-rich version.
• Vegetarian Delight: Feel free to add more vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or spinach for a healthier twist.
• Spice Level: Adjust the green chilies and red chili powder to match your preferred spice level.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix some cheese into the macaroni while cooking for a creamy texture throughout.