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Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Cheese Pasta

Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Cheese Pasta
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Jamie Oliver’s cauliflower cheese pasta is a dish where pasta is combined with a creamy cheese sauce and cooked cauliflower, often baked or finished in a pan for extra flavour and texture.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 300g pasta (penne, fusilli, or macaroni)

  • 1 small cauliflower (cut into florets)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

  • 200ml milk

  • 100–150g grated cheese (cheddar or a mix)

  • 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)

  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Optional additions:

  • Mustard (for depth of flavor)

  • Parmesan cheese

  • Breadcrumbs for topping

  • Chili flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Cauliflower Together

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to instructions. In the last 4–5 minutes, add cauliflower florets to the same pot. This saves time and allows the flavours to combine naturally.

Step 2: Reserve Pasta Water

Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the cooking water. This starchy liquid is essential for adjusting the sauce consistency later.

Step 3: Start the Sauce Base

In a large pan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook gently until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Base

Add milk and bring it to a gentle simmer. If using flour, stir it in to help thicken the sauce smoothly without lumps.

Step 5: Add Cheese Gradually

Stir in grated cheese slowly, allowing it to melt fully before adding more. This creates a smooth, velvety sauce.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Cauliflower

Add the drained pasta and cauliflower to the sauce. Toss well so everything is evenly coated.

Step 7: Adjust Consistency

Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and create a silky finish.

Step 8: Optional Bake for Texture

Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs or extra cheese on top, and bake for 10–15 minutes until golden and slightly crisp

Find it online: https://jamieolivereats.uk/cauliflower-cheese-pasta/