Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. I love how this recipe combines the creamy, indulgent flavors of traditional mac and cheese with the subtle sweetness and nutritional punch of cauliflower!
Incorporating cauliflower makes this dish lighter while maintaining its creamy and cheesy goodness. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add more vegetables to their meals without sacrificing flavor.
Jamie Oliver introduced this recipe as part of his broader campaign to encourage healthier eating habits. It aligns with his mission to make nutritious food accessible and appealing to everyone, including children and families.
So, whether cooking for family and friends or just treating yourself, Jamie’s recipe will become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. Let’s get cooking and enjoy this scrumptious blend of flavors!
Equipments Required
- Large Pot: I use a large pot to cook the pasta and cauliflower. I recommend choosing a pot that comfortably accommodates the pasta with enough water and allows it to cook evenly.
- Medium saucepan: I make my cheese sauce in a medium saucepan.
- Colander: I always use a colander to thoroughly drain the cooked pasta and cauliflower before combining it with the sauce.
- Cutting Board and Knife: I recommend having a sharp knife and a cutting board for cutting and chopping cauliflower into florets.
- Cheese Grater: I use it to grate the cheese onto the pasta.
- Whisk: I use a whisk to mix the cheese sauce well until it’s smooth. You can also use a fork if you don’t have a whisk.
- Ovenproof Baking Dish: This is my go-to when I want to bake my cauliflower Mac and cheese
- Baking Tray: You’ll need it to place the baking dish on for easy handling.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: I always use measuring cups and spoons to get the correct measurements for the perfect recipe outcome.
Jamie Oliver Mac And Cheese Ingredients & Substitutions
Note: The ingredients mentioned in this section make six portions of Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower mac and cheese. You can always change and adjust the quantities of the ingredients according to your need for the number of servings you wish to make.
- 15 g Unsalted Butter: I recommend using margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative if you want to avoid unsalted butter.
- 1 Leek: If you don’t have leeks, I suggest using a medium or 2-3 green onions.
- 1 Celery Stick: I often substitute half a green bell pepper for celery, but you can also omit it if necessary.
- ½ a Bulb of Fennel (optional): I always add half a fennel bulb because it adds a subtle anise-like flavor. However, you can add a stick of celery or onion if you don’t like fennel.
- 1 Small Head of Cauliflower (600g): For additional taste, I suggest adding broccoli or a mix of both. It will add a good flavor and make the dish more nutritious.
- 450 g Dried Pasta: This forms the bulk of the dish. You can use any pasta to make the recipe.
- 1 Tablespoon Plain Flour: I suggest substituting cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to help thicken the cheese sauce.
- 500 ML Semi-Skimmed Milk: I prefer using plant-based milk in the pasta whenever I don’t want to use semi-skimmed milk.
- 1 Teaspoon English Mustard: I sometimes use yellow mustard instead of English mustard. You can also use Dijon mustard if you want.
- 100 g Mixed Cheese (such as cheddar, parmesan, feta, halloumi): You can use any other combination of cheeses you prefer.
- 100 g Stale Bread: I prefer using stale bread to make a crispy breadcrumb topping. However, you can use gluten-free bread, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed crackers instead of moldy bread.
- 2 Cloves of Garlic: I suggest using one teaspoon of garlic powder if fresh garlic is unavailable.
- A Few Sprigs of Fresh Herbs (such as thyme or oregano, optional): You can also use dried herbs (1 teaspoon of thyme or oregano) or other fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
- 1 Teaspoon Salt: Depending on the specific flavor profile you’re aiming for and the texture you prefer, I suggest using table salt or kosher salt to add a unique touch to your Mac and Cheese. Sea salt or kosher salt are excellent choices for the most versatile option, while truffle salt or smoked salt can be used for a more gourmet touch.
Preparation and Cooking Time
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 1 hour |
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Step 1
Heat a generous knob of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until melted and sizzling.
Step 2
Add the chopped garlic to the saucepan and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it turns light brown, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Step 3
Stir in the finely chopped celery and cook for another 3-4 minutes until it softens.
Step 4
Cut the cauliflower into florets and finely chop the stems and leaves. Add the cauliflower stems and leaves to the pan, reserving the florets for later use.
Step 5
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
Step 6
Gradually pour in the milk, a little at a time, while stirring constantly to ensure no lumps form. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens.
Step 7
Season the sauce with black pepper powder and a pinch of salt to taste.
Step 8
Add one teaspoon of English mustard to the sauce, stirring well to combine.
Step 9
Mix in the grated cheese and cheese mix, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 10
Place the cooked pasta and reserved cauliflower florets into a large baking tray or casserole dish.
Step 11
Pour the prepared cheese sauce over the pasta and cauliflower. Mix everything thoroughly to coat the pasta and cauliflower with the sauce.
Step 12
Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top of the pasta mixture.
Step 13
Add a layer of grated cheese on top for a creamy finish.
Step 14
Top the dish with a layer of breadcrumbs.
Step 15
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the baking tray in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Step 16
Your cauliflower mac and cheese is ready to devour!
Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe Video
Expert Tips That I Recommend
- Roast the Cauliflower: Instead of boiling, I suggest roasting the cauliflower florets in the oven with olive oil, salt, and pepper for about 20 minutes until golden. This will add a more profound, caramelized flavor to the dish.
- Use a Variety of Cheeses: I love blending different types of cheeses to create a more complex flavor profile. For a rich and flavorful sauce, you can also try this by combining sharp cheddar, nutty parmesan, creamy gouda, and tangy feta.
- Add Extra Vegetables: I love incorporating other vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli for added nutrition and texture. You can steam or sauté additional veggies and mix them into the pasta before baking.
- Infuse the milk: I recommend infusing the milk with herbs and spices to add more depth to the sauce. I always warm the milk with a bay leaf, a clove of garlic, and a sprig of thyme. Then, I strain it before adding it to the roux.
- Boost the Crunch: Another tip to improve your mac and cheese is to enhance the breadcrumb topping with extra flavor and texture. I sometimes mix panko breadcrumbs with finely grated parmesan, chopped fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. For added crunch, you can also include some chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts.
- Season Well: I always ensure that each dish component is well-seasoned to bring out the best flavors. I always season the pasta water generously with salt and taste the cheese sauce for seasoning before mixing with the pasta and cauliflower.
- Make It Smoky: I suggest adding a smoky element to the dish for a unique flavor twist. You can use smoked cheese (like smoked Gouda or Cheddar) or add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce for that smoky flavor.
- Create Layers: To improve my mac and cheese, I layer the pasta and cauliflower with cheese sauce in the baking dish to ensure even distribution. I add alternate layers of pasta and cauliflower with the cheese sauce, finishing with a thick layer of sauce and breadcrumbs on top.
FAQs About Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Nutritional Information Per Serving
Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Mac and Cheese is moderately healthy, however, it does contain a high amount of fat and carbohydrates. Hence, it is best to stick to moderate portions while enjoying this dish.
I have given a nutritional breakdown of the recipe:
| Calories | 477 kcal |
| Protein | 21.8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 75.6 g |
| Fat | 11.6 g |
| Fiber | 5.8 g |
| Saturates | 6 g |
| Sugars | 9.8 g |
| Salt | 1.1 g |
This recipe is suitable for vegetarians and people on low-carb diets as it contains cauliflower. It’s also suitable for a gluten-free diet.
However, people on vegan diets or people who are lactose intolerant may need to be careful while choosing the ingredients for the recipe. Modifications can be made to cater to different dietary needs, and the recipe can be consumed by everyone in moderation.
Recipe Variations For Different Diets
- Vegan Diet: I recommend using vegan alternatives such as cashew or plant-based cheese and substituting dairy with almond, soy, or another plant-based milk. You can replace butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil and also ensure that the pasta is egg-free and vegan-friendly.
- Dairy-Free Diet: I suggest choosing lactose-free cheese or a vegan cheese alternative and substitute regular milk with lactose-free or plant-based milk like almond or soy milk. I also advise using lactose-free butter or a plant-based alternative.
- Gluten-Free Diet: You should use gluten-free pasta from rice, quinoa, or lentils and I suggest using a gluten-free flour blend.
Storing And Reheating This Recipe
Storing-
- Refrigeration: I recommend transferring the mac’ n’ cheese to an airtight container. This way, it can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, I suggest freezing the mac and cheese. Please place it in a freezer-safe, airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. It can be frozen for 2-3 months.
Reheating-
- Microwave: I prefer reheating Mac’ n’ Cheese in the microwave. To prevent it from drying out, place a portion of the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of milk or a small amount of butter before reheating. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to let the mac and cheese thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Oven: Reheating mac and cheese in the oven is easy. First, I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, I transfer the mac’ n’ cheese to an oven-safe dish. To keep it moist, I cover it with aluminum foil. I bake it for about 20-25 minutes or until heated. If I want the top to be crispy, I remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes. If I’m reheating it from frozen, I make sure to thaw it first.
- Stovetop: If you don’t have a microwave or oven, you can also reheat your Mac and Cheese over the stovetop. I place it in a non-stick pan and add a splash of milk or a small amount of butter to keep it from drying out. Then, I heat it on medium-low, stirring frequently until warm.
What To Serve With This Recipe
- Green Salad: I prefer a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette. It can complement the richness of the mac and cheese very well. Also, add mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions.
- Roasted Vegetables: I suggest adding roasted broccoli, brussels sprouts, or carrots seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper. It makes a great side.
- Steamed Greens: Steamed spinach, kale, or Swiss chard with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of salt is a great option. You’ll like it.
- Grilled Chicken: I enjoy simple chicken breasts or thighs seasoned with herbs and spices and this mac and cheese.
- Baked Fish: For a better overall experience, I recommend adding light and flaky white fish like cod or tilapia baked with lemon and herbs along with mac’ n’ cheese.
- Vegetarian Protein: You can also try grilled tofu or a hearty bean salad with chickpeas, black beans, and fresh vegetables.
- Garlic Bread: I love warm garlic bread or garlic knots along with mac and cheese to add a bit of crunch and flavor.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh vegetables and a lemon dressing is a good side to try with Jamie Oliver’s Mac’ n’ Cheese
Printable Version
Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Mac And Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 15 grams Unsalted Butter
- 1 Leek
- 1 Celery Stick
- ½ Bulb of Fennel optional
- 1 Small Head of Cauliflower
- 450 grams Dried Pasta
- 1 Tablespoon Plain Flour
- 500 ML Semi-Skimmed Milk
- 1 Teaspoon English Mustard
- 100 grams Cheese such as cheddar, parmesan, feta, halloumi
- 100 grams Stale Bread
- 2 Cloves of Garlic
- A Few Sprigs of Fresh Herbs such as thyme or oregano, optional
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Medium Saucepan
- Colander
- Cutting Board and Knife
- Cheese Grater
- Whisk
- Ovenproof Baking Dish
- Baking Tray
- Measuring Cups And Spoons
Instructions
- Heat a generous knob of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until melted and sizzling.
- Add the chopped garlic to the saucepan and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it turns light brown, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Stir in the finely chopped celery and cook for another 3-4 minutes until it softens.
- Cut the cauliflower into florets and finely chop the stems and leaves. Add the cauliflower stems and leaves to the pan, reserving the florets for later use.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the milk, a little at a time, while stirring constantly to ensure no lumps form. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens.
- Season the sauce with black pepper powder and a pinch of salt to taste.
- Add one teaspoon of English mustard to the sauce, stirring well to combine.
- Mix in the grated Cheese and Cheese mix, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Place the cooked pasta and reserved cauliflower florets into a large baking tray or casserole dish.
- Pour the prepared cheese sauce over the pasta and cauliflower. Mix everything thoroughly to coat the pasta and cauliflower with the sauce.
- Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top of the pasta mixture.
- Add a layer of grated cheese on top for a creamy finish.
- Add a layer of breadcrumbs to the top.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the baking tray in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the cauliflower mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Your delicious Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Mac and cheese is ready to enjoy!
Video
Notes
- Roast the Cauliflower: Instead of boiling, I suggest roasting the cauliflower florets in the oven with olive oil, salt, and pepper for about 20 minutes until golden. This will add a more profound, caramelized flavor to the dish.
- Use a Variety of Cheeses: I love blending different types of cheeses to create a more complex flavor profile. For a rich and flavorful sauce, you can also try this by combining sharp cheddar, nutty parmesan, creamy gouda, and tangy feta.
- Add Extra Vegetables: I love incorporating other vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli for added nutrition and texture. You can steam or sauté additional veggies and mix them into the pasta before baking.
- Infuse the milk: I recommend infusing the milk with herbs and spices to add more depth to the sauce. I always warm the milk with a bay leaf, a clove of garlic, and a sprig of thyme. Then, I strain it before adding it to the roux.
- Boost the Crunch: Another tip to improve your mac and cheese is to enhance the breadcrumb topping with extra flavor and texture. I sometimes mix panko breadcrumbs with finely grated parmesan, chopped fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. For added crunch, you can also include some chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts.
- Season Well: I always ensure that each dish component is well-seasoned to bring out the best flavors. I always season the pasta water generously with salt and taste the cheese sauce for seasoning before mixing with the pasta and cauliflower.
- Make It Smoky: I suggest adding a smoky element to the dish for a unique flavor twist. You can use smoked cheese (like smoked Gouda or Cheddar) or add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce for that smoky flavor.
- Create Layers: To improve my mac and cheese, I layer the pasta and cauliflower with cheese sauce in the baking dish to ensure even distribution. I add alternate layers of pasta and cauliflower with the cheese sauce, finishing with a thick layer of sauce and breadcrumbs on top.
Nutrition
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Conclusion
Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Mac ‘n’ Cheese is a delicious, comforting dish that combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional mac ‘n’ cheese with the added nutrition of cauliflower.
As you’ve explored the delightful versatility of Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Mac ‘n’ cheese, it’s clear that this dish is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit different dietary needs and preferences, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Whether you’re catering to vegetarians, going gluten-free, or simply looking for a comforting yet nutritious meal, this recipe is a fantastic choice.
Are you ready to elevate your home-cooked meals? Go ahead and try cooking and savoring this delicious Cauliflower Mac ‘n’ Cheese creation, and don’t forget to let us know how it turns out!
Happy cooking!
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