The Jamie Oliver Macaroni Cheese with Cauliflower recipe is a delicious twist on the classic comfort food. By adding cauliflower, this dish brings an extra layer of texture and nutrients while still delivering the creamy, cheesy goodness everyone loves. Perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner, this macaroni and cheese is hearty, wholesome, and easy to prepare. The combination of golden-baked pasta with a rich cheese sauce makes it an instant crowd-pleaser.
What is Jamie Oliver Macaroni Cheese with Cauliflower?
Jamie Oliver’s take on macaroni cheese incorporates cauliflower, giving the traditional dish a nutritious boost. The cauliflower blends seamlessly with the pasta, creating a deliciously creamy dish that’s lighter and packed with extra veggies. The result is a perfect combination of rich, cheesy sauce and tender cauliflower, baked to golden perfection.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Healthy Twist on a Classic: Adding cauliflower increases the nutritional value without compromising flavor.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy cheese sauce combined with tender macaroni and cauliflower makes this dish the ultimate comfort food.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a great way to sneak extra veggies into a dish that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
- Simple and Quick: With easy-to-find ingredients, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Reheats well for lunch or dinner the next day.
Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Macaroni Cheese with Cauliflower
- Macaroni (400g): The pasta base that absorbs the cheese sauce perfectly.
- Cauliflower (1 small head, about 500g): Cut into small florets.
- Butter (50g): Adds richness to the cheese sauce.
- Plain Flour (50g): To create the roux that thickens the sauce.
- Milk (600ml): Forms the base of the creamy sauce.
- Cheddar Cheese (150g, grated): A strong cheddar for a rich and tangy flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese (50g, grated): Adds a sharp, salty flavor to the sauce.
- English Mustard (1 teaspoon): For a subtle kick and depth of flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- Optional: A handful of breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
Equipment
- Large Pot: For boiling the pasta and cauliflower.
- Saucepan: To prepare the cheese sauce.
- Whisk: For stirring the sauce and preventing lumps.
- Baking Dish: For assembling and baking the macaroni cheese.
- Grater: For grating the cheeses.
Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Macaroni Cheese with Cauliflower
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Cauliflower
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the macaroni and cauliflower florets to the pot and cook together for 8-10 minutes, or until both are tender. The pasta should be al dente.
- Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes until it thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and mustard. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cauliflower with the cheese sauce. Stir well to ensure the pasta and cauliflower are evenly coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Transfer the macaroni and cauliflower mixture into a baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle a handful of breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
- Optionally, you can add a bit more grated cheese over the top for an extra cheesy finish.
Step 5: Bake the Macaroni Cheese
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Step 6: Serve the Macaroni Cheese
- Serve hot as a comforting main course. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Macaroni Cheese with Cauliflower
- Garlic Bread: A classic side that complements the cheesy richness of the dish.
- Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the creamy pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.
- Grilled Chicken: For extra protein, grilled chicken makes a great accompaniment to this dish.
- Steamed Greens: Spinach, green beans, or peas work well to lighten up the meal.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Macaroni Cheese with Cauliflower
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep the pasta al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Use Strong Cheddar: A mature cheddar adds more flavor and richness to the dish.
- Drain the Cauliflower Well: Make sure the cauliflower is thoroughly drained before combining it with the sauce to avoid a watery dish.
- Golden Topping: Add breadcrumbs for a crispy topping, or sprinkle extra cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Add a Little Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor of the cheese sauce.
Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Macaroni Cheese with Cauliflower
- Add Bacon: Crispy bacon bits mixed into the sauce add a smoky flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy version.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free variation.
- Broccoli Swap: Swap cauliflower for broccoli, or use a mix of both.
- Extra Veggies: Add peas or spinach to the mix for a veggie-packed version.
Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Macaroni Cheese with Cauliflower
- Refrigerate: Store leftover macaroni cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 180°C for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning.
- Freeze: You can freeze macaroni cheese before baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.
Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Macaroni Cheese with Cauliflower
- Oven Reheating: Reheat the dish in the oven at 180°C for 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
- Microwave Option: For individual portions, microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Add Extra Cheese: Before reheating, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top for added flavor.
How Can I Make Jamie Oliver Macaroni Cheese with Cauliflower Healthier?
- Use Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or a high-fiber alternative.
- Reduce Cheese: Use a smaller amount of cheese or opt for a reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories.
- Add More Veggies: Increase the amount of cauliflower or add other vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition.
- Use Skimmed Milk: Substitute whole milk with semi-skimmed or skimmed milk for a lighter sauce.
- Smaller Portions: Serve smaller portions alongside a green salad or vegetables for a more balanced meal.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
FAQs
Can I freeze Jamie Oliver Macaroni Cheese with Cauliflower?
Yes, you can freeze Jamie Oliver Macaroni Cheese with Cauliflower before baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How do I stop macaroni cheese from being dry?
To prevent macaroni cheese from being dry, make sure to add enough cheese sauce to fully coat the pasta and cauliflower. You can also add a splash of milk or pasta cooking water before baking to keep the dish creamy. Covering the dish with foil during the first half of baking can also help retain moisture.
Can I make Jamie Oliver Macaroni Cheese with Cauliflower gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free macaroni and substituting the plain flour in the cheese sauce with gluten-free flour or cornstarch. The recipe remains just as delicious and satisfying with these simple swaps.
What’s the best cheese for macaroni cheese?
A strong, mature cheddar is ideal for macaroni cheese as it provides a rich, sharp flavor. Parmesan can be added for a saltier, more complex taste, while Gruyère or mozzarella can give the dish extra creaminess and depth.
Final Words
The Jamie Oliver Macaroni Cheese with Cauliflower is a delicious, comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly meal or a dish to impress guests, this cheesy, creamy bake delivers flavor and nutrition. With its golden baked top and tender pasta and cauliflower, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
More By British Baking Recipes
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Jamie Oliver Macaroni Cheese With Cauliflower Recipe
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
Jamie Oliver’s take on macaroni cheese incorporates cauliflower, giving the traditional dish a nutritious boost. The cauliflower blends seamlessly with the pasta, creating a deliciously creamy dish that’s lighter and packed with extra veggies. The result is a perfect combination of rich, cheesy sauce and tender cauliflower, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
- Macaroni (400g): The pasta base that absorbs the cheese sauce perfectly.
- Cauliflower (1 small head, about 500g): Cut into small florets.
- Butter (50g): Adds richness to the cheese sauce.
- Plain Flour (50g): To create the roux that thickens the sauce.
- Milk (600ml): Forms the base of the creamy sauce.
- Cheddar Cheese (150g, grated): A strong cheddar for a rich and tangy flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese (50g, grated): Adds a sharp, salty flavor to the sauce.
- English Mustard (1 teaspoon): For a subtle kick and depth of flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- Optional: A handful of breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Cauliflower
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the macaroni and cauliflower florets to the pot and cook together for 8-10 minutes, or until both are tender. The pasta should be al dente.
- Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes until it thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and mustard. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cauliflower with the cheese sauce. Stir well to ensure the pasta and cauliflower are evenly coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Transfer the macaroni and cauliflower mixture into a baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle a handful of breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
- Optionally, you can add a bit more grated cheese over the top for an extra cheesy finish.
Step 5: Bake the Macaroni Cheese
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Step 6: Serve the Macaroni Cheese
- Serve hot as a comforting main course. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
