How to Make Shawarma Mac and Cheese: An Incredible Cheesy Delight 🧀🔥

✨ Introduction

What happens when the bold, aromatic spices of Middle Eastern shawarma collide with the gooey, soul-soothing comfort of mac and cheese? Magic. Pure, unapologetic, fork-dropping magic. Welcome to Shawarma Mac and Cheese, the dazzling fusion dish that’s taking dinner tables by storm. This isn’t your average weeknight pasta – it’s a flavour-packed, spice-laden, cheese-drenched masterpiece that marries street-food vibes with classic comfort.

If you’ve been searching for a recipe that makes guests gasp, kids cheer, and your Instagram blow up, you’ve just found it. Inspired by the vibrant recipe from The Golden Balance, we’re giving you the full 9jakitchen breakdown: British English style, big flavours, and zero stress. Ready to turn your kitchen into the hottest spot in Lagos and beyond? Let’s dive into Shawarma Mac and Cheese and make your taste buds dance.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fusion That Works: Shawarma Mac and Cheese brings together smoky shawarma spices and creamy cheese sauce in one epic bite. It’s East meets West, and everyone wins.
• Weeknight-Friendly: Marinate the chicken ahead, and the rest comes together in under 30 minutes. Impressive doesn’t have to mean difficult.
• Crowd-Pleasing Power: Picky eaters love mac and cheese. Spice lovers adore shawarma. Combine them, and you’ve got a dish that disappears fast.
• Customisable Heat: Control the chilli powder and hot sauce to suit your spice tolerance – from mild to “wow, that’s fire!”
• Meal-Prep Hero: Shawarma Mac and Cheese reheats like a dream, making leftovers something to look forward to.
• Conversation Starter: Serve this at your next gathering and watch the “wait, what IS this?!” reactions roll in.

🛒 Ingredients Needed

1. For The Shawarma Spice Blend
2. 1 ½ tsp garlic powder – Gives that deep, savoury backbone shawarma is known for.
3. 1 tsp turmeric – Adds earthy warmth and that gorgeous golden hue.
4. ½ tsp mustard powder – A subtle tang that cuts through the richness.
5. 1 tsp cumin – The signature smoky, nutty note of any good shawarma.
6. ¼ tsp sumac – Brings a lemony zing without extra liquid.
7. 1 tsp coriander – Floral and citrusy to balance the cumin.
8. ½ tsp black pepper – For gentle heat and bite.
9. 1 tsp garam masala – A warming South Asian blend that adds complexity.
10. 2 tsp paprika – Sweet, smoky colour and flavour.
11. 1 tsp onion powder – Rounds out the aromatics.
12. ½ tsp clove – Just a touch for that authentic shawarma depth.
13. ½ tsp red chilli powder – Adjust up or down for your heat level.
14. 1 tsp chicken powder – Umami booster; use a good-quality stock cube if needed.
15. 1 tsp salt – Seasons the blend so you don’t have to guess later.
16. For The Chicken Marination
17. 250-500g boneless chicken thighs – Thighs stay juicy; breast works if you prefer it leaner.
18. 2 tbsp yoghurt – Tenderises the chicken and helps the spices cling.
19. 2 tbsp lemon juice – Bright acidity that balances the fat in the cheese.
20. 1 tbsp tomato paste – Adds umami and a hint of sweetness.
21. 2 tbsp prepared shawarma spices – From the blend above. This is where Shawarma Mac and Cheese gets its soul.
22. 1 tsp olive oil – Helps the marinade coat evenly and promotes browning.
23. For The Cheese Sauce & Pasta
24. 4 tbsp butter – The start of a classic roux for velvety sauce.
25. 2 tbsp oil – Prevents the butter from burning and adds silkiness.
26. 4 tbsp plain flour – Thickens your sauce to a perfect mac-and-cheese consistency.
27. 1 tsp garlic – Because more garlic is always a good idea.
28. 1 litre milk or as required – Full-fat milk gives the richest result; use as needed for consistency.
29. 1 tbsp prepared shawarma spices – Yes, again! We’re layering flavour into the sauce itself.
30. 1 tbsp hot sauce – Sriracha works beautifully, but use your favourite.
31. 1 cup cheddar, shredded – Sharp cheddar for that classic tang.
32. ½ cup mozzarella, shredded – For the epic cheese pull.
33. 1 lb elbow macaroni, boiled – The traditional mac shape holds sauce like a champ.

🍳 Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl – For whisking your shawarma marinade and tossing chicken.
2. Sharp knife & chopping board – for trimming and slicing chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
3. Large pot – To boil your macaroni until al dente.
4. Colander – For draining pasta; coat with 1 tbsp oil after to prevent sticking.
5. Heavy-based saucepan or pot – Essential for making a lump-free cheese sauce.
6. Whisk – Your best friend for a silky-smooth roux and béchamel.
7. Cast-iron skillet or frying pan – Gives the chicken that gorgeous char shawarma is famous for.
8. Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring sauce and folding pasta without scratching pans.
9. Grater – If you’re shredding your own cheese, which we highly recommend for meltability.
10. Measuring spoons & cups – Precision matters when balancing 14 spices!

👩🏽‍🍳 Step-By-Step Guide: Let’s Cook!

Cooking Instructions:

Follow these detailed steps carefully to make perfect Shawarma Mac and Cheese every single time.

Step 1: Mix Your Shawarma Spice Blend 🌶️✨

• Add garlic powder, turmeric, mustard powder, cumin, sumac, coriander, black pepper, garam masala, paprika, onion powder, clove, red chilli powder, chicken powder, and salt to a small bowl.
• Whisk until the blend is completely uniform and no clumps remain.
• This mix is the flavour engine of Shawarma Mac and Cheese, so taste a pinch and adjust chilli if needed.
• Store any leftover blend in an airtight jar for up to 3 months.

Step 2: Marinate The Chicken 🐔💛

• Trim and slice 250-500g boneless chicken thighs into 1-inch strips.
• In a large bowl, combine 2 tbsp yoghurt, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp tomato paste, 2 tbsp prepared shawarma spices, and 1 tsp olive oil.
• Add the chicken and toss until every piece is glossy and fully coated.
• Cover with cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for a deeper flavour.

Step 3: Boil The Macaroni 🍝💧

• Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
• Add 1 tsp salt and 1 tbsp oil to the water to season and prevent sticking.
• Tip in 1 lb elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes until al dente.
• Drain immediately in a colander and toss with 1 tbsp oil to keep separate.
• If it clumps later, rinse gently under cold water while loosening with your hands.

Step 4: Cook The Shawarma Chicken 🔥🍗

• Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy frying pan over high heat until smoking hot.
• Add the marinated chicken in a single layer – work in batches so you don’t crowd the pan.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until deeply charred and the internal temp hits 74°C.
• Transfer to a board, rest for 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized chunks.

Step 5: Make The Shawarma Cheese Sauce 🧀🥄

• Melt 4 tbsp butter with 2 tbsp oil in a heavy saucepan over medium heat.
• Add 1 tsp of garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
• Whisk in 4 tbsp plain flour and cook for 1 minute to form a smooth roux.
• Slowly pour in 1 litre of milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
• Once the sauce thickens and coats a spoon, stir in 1 tbsp shawarma spices and 1 tbsp hot sauce.
• Reduce the heat to low and fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar and ½ cup of mozzarella until silky and melted.

Step 6: Bring It All Together – The Shawarma Mac and Cheese Moment 🤝😍

• Add the cooked, oiled macaroni straight into the cheese sauce.
• Fold gently with a spatula until every elbow is coated in that golden sauce.
• Tip in all the chopped shawarma chicken and fold again to distribute evenly.
• Taste and adjust seasoning – add salt, more chilli, or a splash of warm milk if too thick.
• This is your Shawarma Mac and Cheese ready to serve, but we can go one step further.

Step 7: Optional Broil For Drama 🔥👑

• Preheat your grill to high.
• Transfer Shawarma Mac and Cheese to an ovenproof dish and level the top.
• Sprinkle over extra mozzarella and cheddar for that epic cheese crust.
• Grill for 3-5 minutes until bubbling, golden, and the edges are crispy.
• Rest for 2 minutes before serving so the sauce sets slightly.

✅Your Shawarma Mac and Cheese is ready to enjoy!🎉 

💡 Tips For A Perfect Result

• Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that make the sauce grainy. Block cheese melts more smoothly for your Shawarma Mac and Cheese.
• Don’t Skip The Char: High heat on the chicken gives you those authentic shawarma-style crispy edges. It’s a game-changer for texture in Shawarma Mac and Cheese.
• Spice Control: Taste your shawarma blend before adding to the sauce. If it’s too hot, reduce the chilli powder next time; if it’s too mild, add a pinch of cayenne.
• Sauce Consistency: Your béchamel should coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thin, simmer longer; if it’s too thick, add a splash of warm milk at a time.
• Pasta Water Hack: Save ½ cup of pasta water before draining. The starch helps loosen the sauce if your Shawarma Mac and Cheese tightens up.
• Rest the Chicken: Letting the chicken rest after cooking keeps it juicy when folded into the hot pasta.
• Make-Ahead Spice Mix: Double or triple the shawarma spice blend and keep it in your pantry. You’ll want to make Shawarma Mac and Cheese again.

🍽️ Serving Suggestion

Spoon piping-hot Shawarma Mac and Cheese into bowls and top with these finishing touches:

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or coriander for colour and freshness.
• Pickled Red Onions: The acidity cuts through the richness beautifully.
• Garlic Sauce Drizzle: A classic shawarma white sauce or toum takes it over the top.
• Chilli Oil: For the heat seekers – a swirl of shatta or chilli crisp is unreal.
• Warm Pita On The Side: Scoop up that cheesy sauce, shawarma-shop style.

Pair Shawarma Mac and Cheese with a crisp cucumber-tomato salad or roasted veg to balance the indulgence. A cold glass of zobo or mint lemonade? Chef’s kiss.

🔄 Variations

• Beef Shawarma Mac and Cheese: Swap chicken for thinly sliced sirloin or flank steak, marinated the same way.
• Veggie Shawarma Mac and Cheese: Use roasted cauliflower, mushrooms, or chickpeas tossed in shawarma spices instead of meat. Still epic.
• Extra Cheesy Baked Version: Mix in cream cheese, layer with more mozzarella, and bake at 200°C for 15 mins until golden.
• Spicy Harissa Twist: Replace hot sauce with 1 tbsp harissa paste in the cheese sauce for North African vibes.
• Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower florets or high-protein pasta to lighten up Shawarma Mac and Cheese without losing flavour.
• Shawarma Mac and Cheese Cups: Spoon into muffin tins, top with cheese, and bake for portable party bites.

📊 Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Based on 6 servings. Values will vary depending on the exact ingredients used. Source for base mac and cheese data: USDA FoodData Central; shawarma elements calculated separately.

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value (DV)
Calories	685 kcal	34%
Total Fat	36g	46%
Saturated Fat	18g	90%
Carbohydrates	58g	21%
Sugars	7g	8%
Protein	32g	64%
Sodium	980mg	43%
Calcium	450mg	35%
Iron	3.2mg	18%

🩺 Health Benefits And Advice

Use bullet points for contents under subheadings.

• Protein-Packed: With chicken and cheese, Shawarma Mac and Cheese delivers over 30g protein per serving – great for muscle repair and satiety.
• Spice Benefits: Turmeric, cumin, and coriander have anti-inflammatory properties and aid digestion.
• Calcium Boost: Cheese and milk make this dish a strong source of calcium for bone health.
• Mind The Sodium: Between cheese, chicken powder, and hot sauce, sodium adds up. If you’re watching salt, use low-sodium stock powder and cheese.
• Portion Wisdom: Shawarma Mac and Cheese is rich. Balance your plate with a big side salad or steamed greens.
• Allergy Note: Contains dairy, gluten, and may contain traces of mustard. Swap for GF pasta and plant-based cheese if needed.

Note: The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.

🙋🏽‍♀️ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I make Shawarma Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
👉 Yes! Assemble everything, cool, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C with a splash of milk to revive the sauce. Shawarma Mac and Cheese actually tastes better the next day.

Q2. I don’t have all 14 spices. Can I still make Shawarma Mac and Cheese?
👉 Absolutely. The core flavours are cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic, and turmeric. Feel free to skip some spices according to your taste and experiment. Your Shawarma Mac and Cheese will still be delicious.

Q3. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Shawarma Mac and Cheese?
👉 You can, but don’t overcook it. Breast dries out faster. Marinate well, then cook just until the internal temp reaches 74 °C to keep your Shawarma Mac and Cheese juicy.

Q4. Is Shawarma Mac and Cheese very spicy?
👉 It’s customisable. The recipe, as written, has a medium kick from red chilli powder and hot sauce. Halve those for mild, or add cayenne if you’re a heat lover.

Q5. Can I freeze Shawarma Mac and Cheese?
👉 Yes, but the sauce may split slightly. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently with extra milk, stirring often.

Q6. What’s the best cheese combo for Shawarma Mac and Cheese?
👉 Cheddar for flavour, mozzarella for stretch. You can experiment with Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of feta for tang.

Q7. My sauce went grainy. How do I fix Shawarma Mac and Cheese?
👉 Low and slow is key. If it splits, take it off the heat and whisk in a splash of warm milk or a spoonful of cream cheese to bring Shawarma Mac and Cheese back together.

Q8. Can I make Shawarma Mac and Cheese vegetarian?
👉 Totally. Skip the chicken and load up on shawarma-spiced roasted veggies or plant-based chicken. The sauce and spices are the stars of Shawarma Mac and Cheese anyway.

💭 Final Thought

Shawarma Mac and Cheese isn’t just a recipe – it’s a vibe. It’s the kind of dish that stops conversations mid-sentence and starts new ones. It’s comfort food with a passport, tradition with a twist, and proof that the best things happen when cultures collide in a pot.

Whether you’re cooking to impress, meal-prepping for the week, or just treating yourself because it’s Tuesday, this Shawarma Mac and Cheese delivers. Bold spices, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and that carby hug only pasta can give. What more could you want?

So grab your whisk, crank up the heat, and let your kitchen smell like the best shawarma spot and the cosiest diner all at once. Then tag us at blog.9jakitchen.com – we can’t wait to see your Shawarma Mac and Cheese glow-up.

Trust us, once you go shawarma, you never go back. Now, go make magic. ✨

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