Weeknight dinners just got even easier with our delicious Curry Mac and Cheese recipe, a delightful twist on traditional mac. Simply stir curry powder into the base sauce for a deliciously spiced comfort food.
This curry mac and Cheese is all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup, making it an excellent choice for hassle-free comfort food.
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Why we all love this recipe
Delicious Without Being Heavy: This Curry mac and cheese recipe is a comforting choice without the heavy after-feeling(like this spicy penne pasta or this Sriracha shrimp pasta).
Simple and Easy: This recipe is perfect for hectic evenings; it is quick to prepare and easy to follow.
Creamy Texture: The creamy texture of this dish is simply irresistible, combining smooth cheese sauce with the warm spice of curry powder(do you want to try this cheesy jalapeno corn)?
Easy Cleanup: With this one-pot meal, cleanup is a breeze, making it a perfect combination of deliciousness and convenience.
How to make Curry Mac and Cheese
The ingredients
Elbow Macaroni: I have used multi-grain elbow pasta, which is good to swa with any short pasta like penne or fusilli.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth roux for the sauce.
All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the cheese sauce, giving it a super creamy texture. You can substitute with cornstarch or tapioca flour.
Milk: I've used whole milk; however, replace it with unsweetened almond or soy milk, a great dairy-free alternative.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Provides the classic, gooey cheese pull and taste.
Curry Powder: The star ingredient that gives this dish its unique, warm, and aromatic flavor.
The Instructions
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of water with salt. Cook the elbow macaroni following the package instructions or until it's al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Make the sauce: Pace a large saucepan over medium heat, add unsalted butter, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, and whisk it together. Continue mixing until the mixture turns creamy and starts to bubble slightly.
Add the Milk: Slowly add the milk, blending it in bit by bit. Continue to whisk to keep the mixture smooth. Turn the heat to medium-high and keep stirring until the sauce thickens.
Season and Cheese it Up: Stir in the curry powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Turn to low heat and gradually mix the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and cooked macaroni, stirring well to ensure each piece of pasta is coated in that creamy, curry-infused cheese sauce. Stir in pasta water to thin the curry sauce, if needed.
Serve Hot: Your Curry Mac and Cheese is ready to be enjoyed; sprinkle red pepper flakes if you add a punch!
What to serve with?
Fresh Salads: A light, fresh salad can balance the richness of the mac and Cheese. Check out this cucumber mango salad, Cajun shrimp salad, or this Greek yogurt chicken salad.
Vegetable Sides: Steamed or spicy roasted vegetables work well.
Protein Options: Grilled chicken, baked tofu(this tofu steak), or this blackened Mahi Mahi can boost the protein to make the meal more filling.
Herb Garnishes: Sprinkling fresh cilantro or Thai basil over your mac and Cheese can add freshness and brighten the dish(worked well in this 3 ingredient butternut squash recipe, too).
Crunchy Toppings: For an extra crunch, consider adding a sprinkle of roasted peanuts or a light dusting of bread crumbs before serving. These curried almonds or chili lime almonds are great options as well.
How to store?
Refrigerating: Place leftovers in a large bowl and cover or use an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: Freeze the Curry Mac and Cheese in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Thawing: Thaw overnight in the fridge. This slow process helps maintain the creamy texture.
Reheating: Warm it up in a microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk if the curry mac and Cheese is too thick.
Variations
Vegan Mac: Swap cheddar for vegan cheese sauce and use almond or coconut milk. If you avoid animal products, it's a great way to enjoy this dish; refer to this vegan butternut squash mac and cheese for more info.
Thai Red Curry Mac: If you love Thai food, add Thai red curry paste for bold flavors. Or add green curry paste to make green curry mac.
Pumpkin Curry Mac: Add pureed pumpkin and curry powder for a fall-inspired version.
Extra Texture: Toss chickpeas or green peas for texture and protein boost.
Tools required for making this recipe
Large saucepan: A good quality ensures even heat.
Whisk: Helps to blend the butter, flour, and milk, ensuring a lump-free, velvety sauce that's key for that creamy texture.
Casserole Dish: Ideal for those who love a crispy top on their mac and Cheese. A broiler-safe casserole dish lets you sprinkle some bread crumbs on top and broil to golden brown perfection, adding a delightful crunch to every bite.
Printable recipe card
Curry Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk /dairy free milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt or as required
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth and bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Stir in the curry powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir until well coated.
- Serve hot and enjoy creamy curry mac and cheese.
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