Desi masala pasta recipe (Indian style) with step by step images: A flavorful fusion pasta made with mixed vegetables and Indian spices.

Masala pasta is a delicious twist on the usual onion-tomato pasta. A blend of Indian spices gives it a unique, savory character that appeals to all ages — especially kids and busy office-goers. In many Indian households, masala pasta is a popular lunchbox option because it’s quick to make, tasty, and packed with vegetables.
This versatile dish works well for lunch or dinner and can be easily adapted to suit dietary preferences.
Some useful tips and variations
- Any pasta shape works: spiral, macaroni, penne, or spaghetti. Use what you have on hand.
- For a healthier option, try durum wheat or quinoa pasta.
- Replace butter with oil to make the dish lighter or vegan.
- If you don’t have pasta masala, garam masala works well. You can also add Italian mixed herbs or dried oregano for a different aroma.
- Common vegetables for this recipe are carrot, French beans, and green peas. Cabbage, broccoli, bell pepper, sweet corn, and mushrooms also pair nicely. Use a mix you and your family enjoy.
- Tomato ketchup balances flavors and adds a touch of sweetness. If you prefer, substitute a small amount of sugar instead.
- For a creamier, richer version, finish with cream or a handful of grated cheese.
Instructions
- Boil the pasta according to package directions in salted water with a little oil until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat butter and oil in a pan, then add finely chopped onion.
- Sauté until the onion turns translucent.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw aroma disappears.
- Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for 1–2 minutes.
- Stir in tomato puree, salt, and Kashmiri chili powder. Cover and simmer until the tomato thickens slightly, checking occasionally.
- Add chopped green chili and pasta masala or garam masala. Mix well.
- Add about 3 tablespoons of water and stir briefly to combine.
- Stir in tomato ketchup and mix thoroughly.
- Add the boiled pasta and sprinkle Italian mixed herbs or oregano if using. Toss gently to coat and remove from heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped spring onion greens. Optionally top with grated cheddar or parmesan cheese.

If you try this recipe, please leave feedback and a rating.
Recipe

Desi Masala Pasta Recipe (Indian Style)
Equipment
-
Pan with lid
Ingredients
For boiling pasta
- 1 cup spiral pasta or any
- 4 cups water or as required
- 1 teaspoon salt or as required
- 1 teaspoon oil
For making masala pasta
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 medium-sized onion finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 3 tablespoon carrots chopped
- 3 tablespoon green peas
- 2 tablespoon beans chopped
- 3 medium-sized ripe tomatoes blended into a puree
- Salt as required
- 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder non-spicy
- 1 teaspoon chopped green chili
- 1 teaspoon readymade pasta masala powder/garam masala powder
- 3 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
- ⅓ teaspoon Italian mixed herb seasoning or dried oregano optional
- 1 tablespoon spring onion greens finely chopped (for garnishing)
Instructions
To boil the pasta
-
Heat enough water with salt and a little oil. When it boils, add pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions.
-
Drain excess water and transfer the pasta to a bowl; set aside.
To make the masala pasta
-
Heat butter and oil in a pan. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
-
Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw aroma disappears.
-
Add chopped vegetables and sauté for 1–2 minutes.
-
Add tomato puree, salt, and Kashmiri chili powder. Cover and simmer until the tomato thickens slightly, stirring occasionally.
-
Add chopped green chili and pasta masala or garam masala. Mix well.
-
Add 3 tablespoons water and stir briefly.
-
Add tomato ketchup and mix thoroughly.
-
Add the boiled pasta and dried Italian herbs or oregano if using. Toss gently and turn off the heat.
-
Serve hot garnished with chopped spring onion greens and, if desired, grated cheese.
Notes
Nutrition Disclaimer:
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary depending on ingredients and brands. For precise values consult a registered dietitian or use a nutrition calculator.
Share your thoughts in the comments. If you try this, tag me on social media — I’d love to see your creation.