Jamie Oliver Mac And Cheese Recipe

Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.

Today, we’re going to make a super yummy version, inspired by the famous chef Jamie Oliver. Don’t worry, it’s easy! I’ll show you how to mix pasta with a cheesy sauce and bake it until it’s all bubbly and crispy on top. Let’s get started and make some cheesy magic happen!

What is Jamie Oliver Mac and Cheese?

Jamie Oliver’s Mac and Cheese is a classic dish reimagined by the renowned chef. It blends creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta, topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb layer. Serving 4-6 people, this recipe can be prepared and cooked in about 30 to 40 minutes.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Macaroni Cheese with Bacon
• Mary Berry Cauliflower Cheese
• Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Cheese

Ingredients to Make Jamie Oliver Mac and Cheese

• Pasta – 500g (about 1.1 pounds) of macaroni or elbow pasta, preferably whole wheat for a healthier option.
• Cheese – A mix of 100g (3.5 oz) mature Cheddar (sharp Cheddar), and 50g (1.76 oz) Parmesan, freshly grated.
• Milk – 600ml (about 20 fluid ounces or 2.5 cups) of whole milk, for a rich and creamy sauce.
• Flour – 50g (1.76 oz) of all-purpose flour, for thickening the cheese sauce.
• Butter – 50g (1.76 oz) unsalted butter, adds richness to the sauce.
• Breadcrumbs – 100g (3.5 oz) for a crispy topping.
• Seasonings – Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; optionally add a pinch of nutmeg or mustard powder for extra flavor.

Equipment

• Large Pot: For boiling the pasta.
• Saucepan: For making the cheese sauce.
• Whisk: Essential for ensuring a smooth sauce.
• Colander: For draining the pasta.
• Oven-proof Baking Dish: For baking the mac and cheese to golden perfection.

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Preparation of Pasta

• Boil the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Making the Cheese Sauce

• Melt the Butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add Flour: Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a light roux (paste).
• Gradually Add Milk: Slowly add the milk, continuously whisking to prevent any lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
• Add Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients

• Combine Pasta and Sauce: In the pot used for pasta, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce, stirring well to ensure all pasta is coated.
• Add Toppings: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with breadcrumbs and a little extra cheese if desired.

Step 4: Baking

• Bake: Place in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

What Do I Serve With Jamie Oliver Mac and Cheese?

• Green Salad: A crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette complements the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli or mixed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up creamy cheese sauce.
• Roasted Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes roasted with herbs add a burst of freshness and a tangy contrast.
• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: For a protein boost, add grilled chicken strips or shrimp to the side.
• Sweet Corn: Buttered sweet corn makes a sweet and simple side that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the mac and cheese.

Expert Tips to Make Perfect Jamie Oliver Mac and Cheese

• Cheese Quality: Use good quality cheese for better melting and flavor.
• Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk; if too thin, cook longer before adding cheese.
• Baking Time: Monitor the baking closely to avoid over-browning the topping.
• Stir Regularly: When making the sauce, stir constantly to prevent it from sticking and to ensure it remains smooth.
• Season Well: Don’t forget to season your water well with salt when cooking the pasta; this is your chance to flavor the pasta itself.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Mac and Cheese