Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese is an innovative twist on a classic comfort food, offering a creamy, hearty, and veggie-packed dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to indulge without compromising on health. With the added benefit of cauliflower, this dish is not only a comforting meal but also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables for a nutritious boost!

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese

Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese is a modern take on the traditional macaroni cheese, replacing some of the cheese sauce with cauliflower for a creamy and satisfying texture. The cauliflower is roasted to enhance its flavor and then blended into the sauce, providing an extra layer of richness while keeping the dish lighter and more nutritious.

The macaroni is coated in this velvety sauce, baked to perfection, and topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb layer. It’s a delicious, healthier alternative that still hits all the comfort food notes.

Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To prepare Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Macaroni – 300g of elbow macaroni or any pasta shape you prefer.
2. Cauliflower – 1 medium-sized cauliflower, broken into florets.
3. Cheese – A mixture of strong cheddar cheese (around 250g) and parmesan (100g).
4. Milk – 500ml of whole milk or a milk alternative for a lighter version.
5. Butter – 50g of unsalted butter.
6. Flour – 40g of plain flour to make the roux.
7. Mustard powder – A teaspoon to add a bit of tang to the sauce.
8. Nutmeg – A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg for depth of flavor.
9. Garlic – 2 cloves, minced for added richness.
10. Breadcrumbs – 100g of fresh breadcrumbs for topping.
11. Olive oil – A drizzle for roasting the cauliflower.

Equipment Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese, you’ll need the following equipment:

1. Large pot – For boiling the macaroni.
2. Baking dish – A medium-sized ovenproof dish for assembling and baking the macaroni.
3. Roasting tray – For roasting the cauliflower.
4. Large saucepan – To make the sauce.
5. Whisk – To mix the sauce ingredients and prevent lumps.
6. Grater – To grate the cheese.
7. Knife and chopping board – For chopping the cauliflower and garlic.
8. Spoon – For mixing and serving.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese?

Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering dish of Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese:

1. Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 200°C (400°F) to roast the cauliflower and later bake the dish.
2. Prepare the cauliflower: Break the cauliflower into florets. Place them on a roasting tray, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly charred.
3. Cook the macaroni: While the cauliflower roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Make the sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for a minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens. Stir in the mustard powder, nutmeg, and a handful of the grated cheddar and parmesan, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Blend the cauliflower: Once the cauliflower is roasted, remove it from the oven and place it in a blender. Blend until smooth, adding a little water or milk to reach a creamy consistency. Mix the cauliflower puree into the cheese sauce.
6. Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cauliflower cheese sauce, stirring well to coat all the pasta.
7. Assemble and bake: Transfer the macaroni and cauliflower mixture into your baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese on top, followed by the breadcrumbs. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
8. Serve: Allow it to cool slightly before serving, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Expert Tips

• Roast the cauliflower well: The deeper the roasting, the more flavor you’ll get from the cauliflower. Don’t be afraid to let it get a little crispy around the edges for added depth.
• Use different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for varied flavors. A mix of cheeses will elevate the dish.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap the pasta for gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour for the roux to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
• Add extra veggies: Feel free to add other veggies to the sauce, such as spinach or peas, to make it even more nutritious.
• Crispier topping: For a crunchier topping, toast the breadcrumbs in a little butter before sprinkling them over the macaroni.

Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting classic with a healthy twist. The cauliflower adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness to the cheese sauce, while the macaroni absorbs all the flavors.

It’s a versatile recipe that’s easy to tweak based on your dietary preferences and the ingredients you have at hand. Whether you’re trying to sneak more veggies into your diet or simply craving a lighter, more nutritious take on mac and cheese, this dish hits the spot!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese

Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese is a wholesome, comforting dish that marries creamy cheese sauce with the natural flavors of cauliflower and pasta. However, one of the beauties of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily switch things up with a few simple substitutions or add-ins to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs.

1. Vegetarian And Vegan Variations

   • Vegan Cauliflower Mac & Cheese: Replace the cheese sauce with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or a vegan cheese blend. You can blend soaked cashews with nutritional yeast, garlic, lemon juice, and a bit of water to create a creamy, cheesy sauce. A vegan parmesan can be added to the top for extra flavor.
   • Add Tofu or Tempeh: For a protein-packed vegan variation, crumbled tempeh or pan-fried tofu can be added to the dish, giving it an additional savory punch.

2. Cheese Lovers Delight

   • If you can’t get enough of cheese, why not go for a cheesy overload? Swap out the standard cheeses (such as cheddar) with a mixture of Gruyère, Parmesan, and blue cheese. This will result in a creamy, rich, and slightly tangy flavor profile. The blue cheese, in particular, will add an intriguing depth to the sauce.
   • Cream Cheese & Ricotta Blend: For a creamier consistency, try blending cream cheese and ricotta with your regular cheddar to create a smoother sauce.

3. Add Meat For Extra Flavor

   • Bacon or Pancetta: Fry up some crispy bacon or pancetta and toss it into your cauliflower mac and cheese for an irresistible salty crunch. If you’re looking for a bit of a smoky flavor, bacon is the perfect choice.
   • Chicken or Sausage: You can also add some grilled chicken, sausages (especially smoked sausage), or ground beef for a meaty variation. This makes the dish even heartier and ideal for feeding a large group.

4. Herbal And Spicy Twists

   • Fresh Herbs: For a fresh and aromatic touch, mix in some fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary into the cheese sauce. These herbs will elevate the flavor profile of your cauliflower mac and cheese, especially if you’re opting for the vegan version, where the flavor may otherwise be more subtle.
   • Spicy Kick: Spice lovers can add a bit of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even a handful of finely chopped jalapeños into the sauce. The heat will balance nicely with the creamy, cheesy sauce.

5. Roasted Veggie Twist

   • For more texture and flavor, try roasting your cauliflower with garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of sea salt before incorporating it into the mac and cheese. You can even toss in some roasted Brussels sprouts or butternut squash for a more substantial veggie-packed dish.

6. Breadcrumb Topping Variations

   • Instead of a traditional breadcrumb topping, you can go for a garlicky parmesan crust, or even make a crunchy topping using crushed nuts like almonds or hazelnuts. These will add extra texture and nuttiness, perfectly complementing the creamy macaroni cheese.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

If you’ve made a big batch of cauliflower macaroni cheese and find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry!

Properly storing and reheating the dish can help maintain its delicious flavor and texture for the next meal. Here are some key tips for storing and reheating cauliflower mac and cheese:

1. Cool Before Storing

   • Before storing your leftover cauliflower mac and cheese, allow it to cool down to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation from building up inside the storage container, which can make the dish soggy.

2. Storage Containers

   • Store your mac and cheese in airtight containers to prevent air from getting in and drying out the food. You can use glass containers or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids. Be sure the container is big enough to allow the food to be stored in a single layer to avoid squishing.

3. Freezing Leftovers

   • If you have a lot of leftovers or want to save some for later, freezing cauliflower mac and cheese is an option. Spoon the leftovers into a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Just be sure to label it with the date so you know when it was stored. Mac and cheese can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
   • Note on Freezing: When freezing, the sauce may separate slightly upon reheating, but don’t worry-it will still taste great! You can also add a bit of milk or cream when reheating to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency.

4. Reheating Tips

   • Oven Reheating: The best way to reheat cauliflower mac and cheese is in the oven to restore its creamy texture. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish, and cover it loosely with foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is warmed through. If it looks a bit dry, you can add a splash of milk or cream before reheating.
   • Microwave Reheating: If you’re in a hurry, reheating in the microwave is a quicker option. Transfer individual servings to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through.

5. Shelf Life

   • Leftovers will typically last for 3-4 days in the fridge. Always check for signs of spoilage such as an off smell or changes in texture before reheating and consuming.

What Goes Well With Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese?

Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese is a rich, comforting dish, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. The mild, cheesy flavor of the mac and cheese makes it adaptable to many different pairings.

1. Light, Crisp Salads

   • A refreshing salad can balance out the richness of the mac and cheese. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette, or a more robust arugula and pear salad with walnuts and blue cheese, would work beautifully. The acidity from the dressing will cut through the creaminess of the dish.

2. Grilled Or Roasted Vegetables

   • To keep things healthy, roasted or grilled vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with this dish. The smoky flavor from grilling or roasting complements the rich cheese sauce, creating a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

3. Garlic Bread

   • If you’re in the mood for an indulgent side, a warm, crusty loaf of garlic bread is a classic pairing with mac and cheese. The crunchy, buttery bread soaks up some of the creamy sauce, adding a satisfying texture.

4. Lean Protein

   • For a more balanced meal, add a source of lean protein such as grilled chicken breast, baked salmon, or even a simple boiled egg on the side. These proteins help cut through the heaviness of the cheese sauce while adding a satisfying layer to the meal.

5. Pickles Or Relishes

   • A tangy pickle or a jar of relish can be an unexpected yet perfect contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese. The sharp, sour notes offer a pleasant contrast to the creamy, cheesy flavors, cleansing the palate between bites.

6. Crispy Bacon Or Prosciutto

   • A sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or thin slices of prosciutto add a salty, crunchy contrast to the soft, creamy macaroni cheese. The salty cured meat helps balance out the richness and provides a delicious flavor.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese is a versatile dish that offers numerous opportunities for customization, allowing you to adjust it based on your dietary preferences, favorite ingredients, or cravings. Whether you choose to make it vegan, add more cheese for a richer taste, or throw in some extra veggies or proteins, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Remember to follow best practices for storing and reheating leftovers, ensuring you can enjoy it again in the future. And don’t forget the fantastic side pairings-whether it’s a light salad or crispy bacon, there’s a perfect companion to elevate this dish. Enjoy!.

FAQs

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower macaroni cheese recipe combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the added health benefits of cauliflower. It includes ingredients like cauliflower, macaroni, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and a mix of spices, topped with a golden crunchy breadcrumb layer. The cauliflower is blended into the cheese sauce, creating a velvety texture that’s perfect for both kids and adults.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese Without Cheese?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower macaroni cheese by substituting the cheese with plant-based alternatives like vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. You can also use a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk to create a creamy sauce.

What Kind Of Cheese Is Used In Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese?

The recipe typically uses mature cheddar cheese for its sharp flavor, along with Parmesan cheese for added richness and depth. The combination of these cheeses gives the dish its signature creamy and savory taste.

Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower For Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese?

Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used as a substitute for fresh cauliflower in this recipe. Just ensure you thaw and drain any excess water before using it in the sauce to avoid a watery dish.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese Spicier?

To add a spicy kick to Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower macaroni cheese, you can incorporate ingredients like chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a bit of hot sauce into the cheese sauce. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese A Good Option For Vegetarians?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower macaroni cheese is a vegetarian-friendly dish as it doesn’t contain any meat. However, be sure to use vegetarian-friendly cheese (some cheeses are made with animal rennet) if you’re cooking for strict vegetarians.

Can I Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Make the entire macaroni cheese, then let it cool to room temperature. Store it in the fridge and reheat it in the oven when ready to serve, adding a little extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top if you like.

What Is The Best Type Of Pasta To Use For Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese?

The best pasta for this dish is elbow macaroni, which is traditionally used in macaroni cheese recipes. However, you can also use other types of pasta such as penne, fusilli, or any small-shaped pasta that can hold the sauce well.

Can Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese Be Made Gluten-free?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower macaroni cheese can be made gluten-free by substituting the pasta with gluten-free macaroni or any other gluten-free pasta of your choice. Additionally, ensure the flour used in the sauce is gluten-free, or substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Macaroni Cheese Lighter Or Healthier?

To make Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower macaroni cheese healthier, you can reduce the amount of cheese used and substitute it with lower-fat versions of cheese. You can also replace the cream or full-fat milk with a lighter alternative like skim milk or a plant-based milk. Additionally, consider using whole-wheat pasta for added fiber.