Jamie Oliver Mac And Cheese Recipe

Jamie Oliver Mac and Cheese
Yields: 1 Serving Difficulty: Easy Prep Time: 10 Mins Cook Time: 30 Mins Total Time: 40 Mins

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.

Jamie Oliver Mac and Cheese Recipe

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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.

Jamie Oliver Mac and Cheese Recipe

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

  • Bacon Bits: Add crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch.
  • Truffle Oil: Drizzle truffle oil for a luxurious flavor upgrade.
  • Spicy Kick: Mix in some chili flakes or jalapeños for a bit of heat.
  • Veggie Delight: Mix in sautĂ©ed mushrooms and spinach for an earthy flavor and added nutrition.
  • Crunchy Topping: Add crushed crackers or potato chips with the breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

  • Calories: Approximately 600 kcal
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Fat: 30 g (of which saturated: 18 g)
  • Carbohydrates: 65 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 780 mg

FAQs

Is It Possible to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare Jamie Oliver’s Mac and Cheese ahead of time. Assemble the dish up to the point of baking and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it is heated through.

How Long Does It Take to Prepare and Cook Jamie Oliver’s Mac and Cheese?

The total preparation and cooking time for Jamie Oliver’s Mac and Cheese is approximately 30 to 40 minutes. This includes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 to 30 minutes for cooking, depending on your oven and the desired crispiness of the breadcrumb topping.

Can Jamie Oliver’s Mac and Cheese Be Made Gluten-Free?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s Mac and Cheese can easily be adapted for a gluten-free diet. Simply substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for making the cheese sauce. Ensure all other ingredients, such as breadcrumbs, are certified gluten-free.

What Are the Best Cheeses to Use for Jamie Oliver’s Mac and Cheese?

For the best flavor in Jamie Oliver’s Mac and Cheese, it is recommended to use a combination of mature Cheddar for its sharpness and depth of flavor, and Parmesan for its salty and nutty profile. You can also experiment with adding Gruyère for a slightly sweet note or smoked Gouda for a hint of smokiness.

Final Thoughts

And that’s it! You’ve just made a fantastic mac and cheese that’s creamy, cheesy, and totally delicious. It wasn’t too hard, right? This dish is perfect for when you need a little comfort food or want to impress your friends and family. Remember, the best part about cooking is putting your own spin on things, so feel free to get creative next time. Enjoy your homemade mac and cheese!

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