I’ll never forget the first time I made Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Pasta. It was one of those lazy Sunday afternoons, the kind where the kitchen calls to you for something comforting, something easy but satisfying. I had a cauliflower in the fridge that needed using, and there was leftover pasta from the night before. It felt like the universe was nudging me toward this simple yet incredible dish.
It’s funny how a recipe can elevate something as humble as cauliflower into a dish you crave. What makes this one stand out is the balance between creamy cheese sauce and the slightly nutty taste of the cauliflower. There’s something about combining comfort food with a bit of veggie goodness that just makes you feel like you’re doing your body a favor, while still indulging in rich flavors.
Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Pasta Recipe
This recipe is a twist on classic cauliflower cheese, with the addition of pasta making it a hearty meal. It’s as easy to make as it is delicious, and the flavor hits you in all the right places. If you’re looking for something that’s both filling and flavorful, this recipe is a winner.
- The cauliflower: Roasted to bring out its sweetness, which pairs perfectly with the rich, cheesy sauce.
- The pasta: Jamie Oliver uses simple ingredients like penne or macaroni to make the dish both hearty and satisfying.
- The sauce: A creamy, velvety cheese sauce that brings everything together with its depth of flavor.
- The topping: Crispy breadcrumbs and a final sprinkle of cheese for that perfect finish.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need to create this dish. It’s pretty simple and you probably have most of it in your kitchen already.
- 1 cauliflower – A medium to large cauliflower works best. Roasting it brings out a sweet, caramelized flavor.
- 200g pasta – Penne or macaroni are the classics, but feel free to experiment with your favorite shapes.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For roasting the cauliflower. It helps caramelize and bring out the natural sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic – Fresh garlic adds a subtle warmth to the dish.
- 50g butter – For the base of the cheese sauce. You can also use olive oil if you want to keep it lighter.
- 50g flour – To create a roux for the sauce.
- 600ml milk – Whole milk is ideal for richness, but you can use alternatives if you prefer.
- 100g mature cheddar cheese – The star of the dish. The sharpness adds an incredible depth of flavor.
- 50g parmesan cheese – For extra richness and that irresistible umami kick.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, of course.
- Breadcrumbs – For topping. This adds the all-important crunch factor.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Pasta
Making this dish is as satisfying as eating it. The process is straightforward, but with a few key techniques that make the final result stand out.
- Roast the cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Chop the cauliflower into florets, toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for about 20 minutes. You want them to be soft and slightly caramelized.
- Cook the pasta: While the cauliflower roasts, cook your pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk, bit by bit, until you have a smooth sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook until it thickens slightly. Stir in the cheddar and parmesan, and season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the pasta: Toss the pasta, cauliflower, and cheese sauce together. If it looks too thick, add a splash of the pasta water to loosen it up.
- Top and bake: Transfer everything to an ovenproof dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top, and add a little more cheese. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbling.
- Serve and enjoy: Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve it up hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s dive a little deeper into the science behind some of the ingredients.
- Cauliflower: A cruciferous vegetable rich in fiber and antioxidants. Roasting enhances its flavor by caramelizing the sugars, which brings out a sweet, nutty flavor. It’s also packed with vitamins C, K, and folate, making it a great nutritional addition to the dish.
- Cheese: The combination of cheddar and parmesan is not just about flavor; it’s about texture too. Cheddar melts into a smooth, creamy sauce, while parmesan adds a sharp, salty kick and helps to thicken the sauce. Cheese is high in calcium and protein, but the real magic happens when the cheese begins to brown in the oven, creating those irresistible crispy edges.
- Breadcrumbs: These add texture to the dish. They’re not just for crunch, though. Breadcrumbs can soak up some of the sauce, adding a little contrast to the rich creaminess of the dish.
Expert Tips
- Make it extra cheesy: For a more decadent dish, you can up the cheese by adding a bit of mozzarella or Gruyère for extra meltiness.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs will give you a better texture and flavor than store-bought ones. Just toast some bread and pulse it in a food processor.
- Roast the cauliflower longer: The longer you roast the cauliflower, the more caramelized and nutty it becomes. Don’t be afraid to let it go a little longer than the recipe says.
- Add protein: If you want to make this a one-pot meal, add some cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage to the pasta. It’ll pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about Jamie’s Cauliflower Cheese Pasta is how adaptable it is. Here are a few fun variations to try:
- Vegan version: Swap out the butter and milk for plant-based alternatives (almond milk, coconut oil) and use a vegan cheese blend. Cauliflower still works as the star of the dish!
- Add more veggies: You could throw in some peas, spinach, or even roasted butternut squash for added texture and flavor.
- Spicy twist: Add some chili flakes to the cheese sauce or top the dish with a drizzle of sriracha for a bit of heat.
Final Words
This is one of those dishes that’s simple yet comforting. It’s a celebration of cauliflower in its most delicious form. It’s creamy, cheesy, and so easy to make. Plus, there’s no wrong way to approach it-whether you follow the recipe exactly or mix in your own variations, it’ll still turn out great.
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Pasta Unique?
It combines creamy cheese sauce with roasted cauliflower for a rich, savory flavor that feels both indulgent and comforting.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower Cheese Pasta Vegetarian?
Yes! The recipe is naturally vegetarian. Just make sure to use veggie stock and vegetarian cheese.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-free?
Swap the cheese and milk for dairy-free alternatives like plant-based cheese and oat milk to keep the creamy texture.