Jamie Oliver Mac and Cheese with Cauliflower

Jamie Oliver’s Mac and Cheese with Cauliflower is a creamy, cheesy, and nutritious twist on the classic comfort dish. By blending cauliflower into the sauce, this recipe creates a lighter, silkier texture while sneaking in extra veggies, making it perfect for the whole family.

What Is Jamie Oliver Mac and Cheese with Cauliflower?

Jamie Oliver’s Mac and Cheese with Cauliflower is a healthier take on traditional mac and cheese, where blended cauliflower is added to the cheese sauce for extra creaminess. This method not only enhances the flavor but also adds a subtle sweetness and more nutrients.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Creamy and indulgent without being too heavy.
• Includes hidden vegetables – great for picky eaters.
• Simple ingredients that are easy to find.
• Lighter than traditional mac and cheese but still full of flavor.
• Perfect for batch cooking and freezing.

Ingredients Needed for Jamie Oliver Mac and Cheese with Cauliflower

For the Pasta & Cauliflower Sauce:

• 300g macaroni (or any short pasta)
• 1 medium cauliflower (chopped into florets)
• 500ml (2 cups) milk
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 100g (1 cup) cheddar cheese (grated)
• 50g (½ cup) Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For the Topping (Optional):

• 50g (½ cup) breadcrumbs
• 25g (¼ cup) Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 tbsp butter (melted)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Blender or food processor
• Saucepan
• Baking dish (if baking)

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Mac and 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 and cook until the pasta is al dente and the cauliflower is tender (about 8-10 minutes).
• Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cauliflower Cheese Sauce

• In a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
• Add the milk and cooked cauliflower, then let it simmer for 2 minutes.
• Blend the mixture until smooth using a blender or immersion blender.
• Stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
• Add some reserved pasta water if needed for a silkier texture.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Mix the cooked macaroni with the cauliflower cheese sauce until well coated.

Step 4: Bake for Extra Crunch (Optional)

• Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.
• Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish.
• Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and melted butter, then sprinkle over the top.
• Bake for 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread.

What to Serve With Jamie Oliver Mac and Cheese with Cauliflower

• Green salad – for a fresh contrast.
• Roasted vegetables – add more depth of flavor.
• Grilled chicken or salmon – for extra protein.
• Garlic bread – a classic pairing.
• Tomato chutney or caramelized onions – for added sweetness.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

• Blend the cauliflower sauce until super smooth for a creamy texture.
• Add some pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
• Use mature cheddar for a deeper flavor.
• Bake with a breadcrumb topping for extra crunch.
• Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for the best consistency.

What Are Variations of Jamie Oliver Mac and Cheese with Cauliflower?

• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and nutritional yeast.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
• Extra Greens: Stir in spinach or peas for added nutrients.
• Bacon Mac and Cheese: Mix in crispy bacon pieces.

How Do I Store Jamie Oliver Mac and Cheese with Cauliflower?

• Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for later: Cool completely, then freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in the oven: Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 15 minutes until heated through.

How Can I Reheat Mac and Cheese Without Drying It Out?

• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat with a splash of milk, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to maintain creaminess.
• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 160°C (320°F) for 10-15 minutes.

How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?

• Use whole wheat pasta for more fiber.
• Reduce cheese slightly for fewer calories.
• Replace some cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
• Add more vegetables like kale or zucchini.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving – Based on 6 Servings)

• Calories: 430
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 5g

FAQs

How Do I Make Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Extra Creamy?

To achieve an extra creamy texture, blend the cauliflower sauce until smooth and add a little reserved pasta water for silkiness. Using a mix of cheddar and Parmesan also enhances the richness of the sauce.

Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead of Fresh?

Yes, frozen cauliflower works well. Boil or steam it for a few minutes until tender before blending it into the sauce. Drain well to prevent excess moisture from thinning the sauce.

How Can I Add More Flavor to Mac and Cheese with Cauliflower?

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of mustard, a pinch of smoked paprika, or some garlic powder. Using mature cheddar cheese also gives a deeper, richer taste.

Can I Make This Recipe Without Baking It?

Yes, the mac and cheese can be served straight from the stovetop after mixing the pasta with the sauce. Baking is optional and adds a crispy topping but is not necessary for a delicious result.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Mac and Cheese with Cauliflower is a creamy, cheesy, and healthier alternative to classic mac and cheese. By blending cauliflower into the sauce, you get a silky texture, added nutrients, and a deliciously rich flavor. Try this easy and comforting recipe today and enjoy a wholesome, flavorful dish!

Print