Are you ready to spice up your pasta game? Look no further! Indian cuisine and pasta are a match made in heaven, and we’re excited to share our favorite 18 spicy Indian pasta recipes that will tantalize your taste buds. From creamy sauces to bold spices, these dishes combine the best of both worlds to create something truly unique.
But before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about what makes them so special. It’s not just the addition of Indian spices and herbs – it’s also the way they complement the rich flavors of pasta. Whether you’re a fan of creamy sauces or bold, spicy flavors, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through India, exploring the diverse flavors and ingredients that make these dishes so delicious. From classic favorites to innovative twists, get ready to spice up your pasta game with our 18 Spicy Indian Pasta Recipes.
Butter Chicken Pasta
Experience the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with this creamy butter chicken pasta recipe. A delicious twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a velvety tomato sauce with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp. butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. garam masala
– 1/2 tsp. cumin
– 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic, garam masala, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken to the skillet; cook until browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta with sauce; season with salt and pepper.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Masala Mac and Cheese
This Masala Mac and Cheese recipe combines the creamy richness of macaroni and cheese with the warm, aromatic spices of Indian cuisine. The result is a bold, comforting dish that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garam masala
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and garam masala. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked macaroni and heavy cream; stir until well combined.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tandoori Pasta Bake
Elevate your pasta game with this unique fusion of Indian and Italian flavors. This Tandoori Pasta Bake combines the warm, aromatic spices of tandoori chicken with the comforting creaminess of a baked pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, marinated in tandoori spice mix (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, vegetable broth, and cheddar cheese in a large bowl.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pav Bhaji Pasta
Elevate the flavors of traditional pav bhaji to a whole new level by combining it with al dente pasta, creating a unique and satisfying fusion dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups pav bhaji mixture (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup cooked chicken or vegetables of your choice
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add pav bhaji mixture and cooked chicken or vegetables. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the pav bhaji mixture, ensuring everything is well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chana Masala Spaghetti
This innovative dish combines the rich flavors of Indian Chana Masala with the comforting familiarity of spaghetti. The result is a unique and delicious fusion that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup cooked chana masala (chickpea curry)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in cooked chana masala and ground cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and chana masala mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paneer Tikka Penne
Elevate your pasta game with this unique fusion of Indian and Italian flavors! In this recipe, tender paneer (Indian cheese) is marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt, then grilled to perfection before being tossed with penne pasta, garlic butter, and a hint of cumin.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 tsp cumin powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 250g penne pasta
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp butter
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala powder, cumin powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the paneer cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove paneer from marinade and cook until golden brown and slightly charred, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked paneer, penne pasta, and garlic butter in the skillet. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Malai Kofta Lasagna
This recipe combines the flavors of Indian malai koftas (cream-filled dumplings) with the classic Italian lasagna, resulting in a unique and delicious twist on two beloved dishes.
Ingredients:
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 1 pound ground beef or lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup malai kofta mixture (see below)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Malai Kofta Mixture:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or lamb with onion and garlic until browned.
4. Add the malai kofta mixture and stir to combine.
5. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with egg, salt, and pepper.
6. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of ricotta cheese mixture, then a layer of noodles. Repeat for 3-4 layers, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Biryani-Style Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of Indian biryani with the comfort of pasta, creating a unique and delicious dish. Perfect for those looking to mix things up in the kitchen!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp cumin powder
– 1 tsp coriander powder
– 1 tsp garam masala
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the vegetable mixture.
6. Stir in cooked basmati rice, salt, and chopped cilantro (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curry Leaf Garlic Noodles
A flavorful and aromatic noodle dish infused with the warmth of curry leaves and pungency of garlic, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (preferably rice-based)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3-4 curry leaves, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– 2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped curry leaves and sauté for 10-15 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add minced garlic and thinly sliced onion; stir-fry for 1 minute until onions are translucent.
4. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, and salt to the wok; toss everything together for about 2 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with finely chopped green chilies (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dal Makhani Fusilli
Elevate your pasta game with this innovative fusion of Italian and Indian flavors! This recipe combines the rich, creamy goodness of traditional Dal Makhani (black lentil curry) with the fun, twisted shape of fusilli pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup black lentils (split or whole)
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook lentils and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in cumin, garam masala, and cooked lentils. Add diced tomatoes, salt, and 1 cup water. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the Dal Makhani sauce. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
6. Serve hot!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korma Alfredo Fettuccine
This creamy fusion combines the rich flavors of korma with the comfort of fettuccine alfredo, creating a unique and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fettuccine pasta
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120ml) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add cooked fettuccine to the creamy sauce and toss until well coated.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time:
– 12-15 minutes (including pasta cooking time)
Vindaloo Spaghetti
This recipe combines the flavors of Indian vindaloo with classic spaghetti, resulting in a spicy and aromatic pasta dish. With the right balance of spices and a hint of acidity, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes and broth. Stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with the tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Samosan Stuffed Shells
A twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the flavors of samosas with jumbo pasta shells and a blend of savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup cooked ground beef or lamb
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon garam masala
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine ground meat, onion, cilantro, carrot, feta (if using), garam masala, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the samosa filling, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top stuffed shells with mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garam Masala Pasta Salad
Garam Masala Pasta Salad Recipe: A flavorful twist on traditional pasta salads!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie, penne, or fusilli)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper strips
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. Garam Masala powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and Garam Masala powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, tossing to coat.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Paneer Rotini
This Palak Paneer Rotini recipe combines the richness of creamy spinach sauce with the comfort of al dente pasta, all infused with the warm flavors of India. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 1 cup palak paneer sauce (see below)
– 1/2 cup crumbled paneer cheese (Indian-style cream cheese)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Palak Paneer Sauce:
– 2 cups cooked spinach puree
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the palak paneer sauce over medium heat until warmed through.
3. Add crumbled paneer cheese and stir until melted and combined with the sauce.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Goan Coconut Curry Linguine
Experience the rich flavors of Goan cuisine with this creamy coconut curry linguine, blending traditional spices and tender pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup Goan curry powder (or regular curry powder with a dash of cumin and coriander)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large pan, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk, curry powder, and salt. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the curry sauce, tossing to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keema Spaghetti Bolognese
A twist on the classic spaghetti bolognese, this recipe combines ground lamb with rich tomato sauce and al dente pasta for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 500g ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 250g spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large pan, cook ground lamb over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti and reserved pasta water with the lamb sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Jalfrezi Penne Arrabbiata
This recipe is a creative spin on the classic Italian pasta dish, Arrabbiata. The addition of jalfrezi peppers gives it an Indian-inspired kick.
Ingredients:
– 250g penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup jalfrezi peppers, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, jalfrezi peppers, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your pasta game with these 18 bold and flavorful Indian-inspired recipes! From classic dishes like Butter Chicken Pasta and Masala Mac and Cheese to creative twists like Tandoori Pasta Bake and Pav Bhaji Pasta, there’s something for every palate. These spicy and savory recipes combine the comfort of pasta with the bold flavors of India, perfect for a unique dinner party or family meal. With options ranging from mild to fiery hot, you’re sure to find a new favorite dish in this mouth-watering collection!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
