Introduction.

Jollof rice is a dish that has brought joy to countless Nigerian tables. But what happens when you swap out the rice for macaroni?

Magic. Jollof macaroni is the kind of meal that satisfies cravings, fills the kitchen with amazing aromas, and brings people together.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making delicious Jollof macaroni.

Let’s get started!

Why Jollof Macaroni?

Jollof macaroni combines the bold, spicy flavours of Jollof rice with the comforting texture of pasta. It’s a versatile dish that works for any occasion.

Plus, it’s quicker to cook than rice, making it perfect for busy days. And since macaroni is loved by kids and adults alike, you’re guaranteed an empty pot every time.

What You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Jollof macaroni. Feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Macaroni: 500g
Tomato paste: 3 tablespoons
Fresh tomatoes: 4 large, blended
Red bell peppers: 2 large, blended
Scotch bonnet peppers: 1 or 2, depending on your spice tolerance
Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
Vegetable oil: 1/3 cup
Chicken or beef stock: 2 cups
Seasoning cubes: 2
Salt: To taste
Curry powder: 1 teaspoon
Thyme: 1 teaspoon
Bay leaves: 2
Protein of your choice: Grilled chicken, beef, or fish (optional)
Vegetables: Optional (carrots, peas, or green beans for a pop of colour)

How Do I Make Jollof Macaroni?

Follow these steps to create a flavorful dish that’ll wow your taste buds.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Blend the tomatoes, red bell peppers, and scotch bonnet peppers until smooth. Set aside.
Cook the macaroni in salted water until it’s slightly underdone (al dente). This is important because it will finish cooking in the sauce later. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Base Sauce

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot.
Add the chopped onions and sauté until they’re soft and fragrant.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 3–5 minutes to remove the raw taste.
Add the blended tomato and pepper mix. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the oil begins to separate from the mixture.

Step 3: Season the Sauce

Add the curry powder, thyme, bay leaves, seasoning cubes, and a pinch of salt.
Stir in the chicken or beef stock and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 4: Combine the Macaroni

Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated.
Add your vegetables (if using) and your chosen protein. Cover the pot and let everything cook on low heat for about 5–7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the macaroni has absorbed the flavours of the sauce, remove the pot from the heat.
Serve hot and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or grated cheese, if you like.

Tips for Perfect Jollof Macaroni

Don’t overcook the pasta: Macaroni cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it.
Go easy on the liquid: Unlike rice, pasta doesn’t need much water to cook in the sauce.
Use good-quality stock: A flavorful stock is the secret to rich Jollof. If you don’t have stock, you can use water but adjust your seasoning.
Experiment with proteins: Shrimp, diced sausage, or grilled fish are great additions.