Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese combines the comforting creaminess of macaroni cheese with the added nutrition and texture of cauliflower. This dish from his 30-Minute Meals series is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal on the table in no time. The combination of golden, bubbling cheese and tender cauliflower florets makes this a family favorite.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
Comfort food: A rich and creamy cheese sauce coats the pasta and cauliflower, creating a satisfying meal.

Healthy twist: Cauliflower adds extra nutrients and texture to the classic macaroni cheese.
Perfect for families: A dish that both kids and adults will love.
Customizable: You can switch up the cheeses or add other ingredients like herbs or bacon for extra flavor.

Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese 30 Minute Meals

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What is Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese is a quick and easy version of the classic comfort food, combining pasta and cauliflower with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection. This dish adds a nutritious twist by incorporating cauliflower, making it not only delicious but also healthier.

Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese Recipe Ingredients

400g dried macaroni pasta
1 small cauliflower (cut into small florets)
250g cheddar cheese (grated)

50g Parmesan cheese (grated)
250ml crème fraîche
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

2 garlic cloves (minced)
Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Optional breadcrumbs for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Pasta and Cauliflower

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dried macaroni and cook according to the package instructions. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the cauliflower florets to the boiling water with the pasta. Cook until both the pasta and cauliflower are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the crème fraîche and Dijon mustard, and heat gently. Gradually add the grated cheddar and Parmesan, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta, Cauliflower, and Cheese Sauce

Add the drained pasta and cauliflower to the cheese sauce and stir to combine everything evenly. Make sure the pasta and cauliflower are well coated with the creamy cheese sauce.

Step 4: Optional Topping and Bake

For extra texture, you can top the macaroni and cheese with breadcrumbs. Simply sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil and extra grated cheese over the top. Transfer the mixture to an ovenproof dish and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Step 5: Serve

Once the cauliflower macaroni cheese is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for added color and flavor, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese

Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the macaroni cheese.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up any leftover cheese sauce.

Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted veggies like carrots, broccoli, or asparagus for a more complete meal.
Grilled Chicken: For a protein boost, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese

Use a variety of cheeses: For extra depth of flavor, try mixing in different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella.

Don’t overcook the cauliflower: Cook the cauliflower until just tender, so it holds its shape and texture in the finished dish.
Add breadcrumbs: A crispy breadcrumb topping adds a lovely contrast to the creamy pasta and cheese sauce.
Make it ahead: You can assemble the dish ahead of time, then bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Season well: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning, as the cheese can be quite salty on its own.

Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese Recipe

Add bacon: Stir in cooked, crispy bacon for a smoky twist on the dish.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the cheese sauce for a subtle kick.

Vegan option: Use plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and dairy-free crème fraîche to make the dish vegan-friendly.
Broccoli and Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese: Combine broccoli with cauliflower for a more colorful and nutritious version.
Gluten-free version: Swap the pasta and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.

How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese Recipe

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze cauliflower macaroni cheese for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or microwave for a quicker option.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

Calories: 500 kcal
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 50g

Fat: 25g
Fiber: 4g

FAQs

Can I make cauliflower macaroni cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can make cauliflower macaroni cheese ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it as instructed until golden and bubbly.

How do I prevent my cauliflower macaroni cheese from becoming watery?

To avoid a watery dish, drain the cauliflower well after cooking. You can also roast the cauliflower instead of boiling it for a firmer texture that won’t release excess moisture.

Can I freeze cauliflower macaroni cheese?

Yes, cauliflower macaroni cheese can be frozen. Let the dish cool completely, then freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What is the best cheese to use for cauliflower macaroni cheese?

A strong cheddar works best for cauliflower macaroni cheese, as it melts smoothly and provides a rich, tangy flavor. You can also mix in other cheeses like Parmesan or Gruyère for extra depth.

Let me know if you need more questions or adjustments!

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese is a quick, easy, and delicious twist on the classic macaroni cheese. The addition of cauliflower adds nutrition and texture to the dish, making it a healthier yet still indulgent option. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to please the whole family.

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