PANCETTA & CAULIFLOWER MAC ‘N’ CHEESE

Macaroni and florets of cauliflower come together in a creamy, cheesy sauce with a delicious pancetta kick. This dish combines the richness of cheddar and Emmental with a delightful blend of flavours.

PREP 10m

COOK 20m

TOTAL 30m

SERVES 4

Ingredients-

  • 250g macaroni pasta (or 400g Mac 'n Cheese without cauliflower)

  • 1 small cauliflower

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 3 tbsp plain flour

  • 550ml milk

  • 1 garlic clove, grated

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 tsp pepper

  • 200g medium cheddar

  • 200g Emmental

  • Mozzarella to cover

Instructions-

  • Begin by dicing the cauliflower into florets. Boil both the cauliflower and macaroni in salted water until perfectly cooked, approximately 4-5 minutes after reaching a boil.

  • In a pan, let the pancetta shine with a splash of oil. Cook it until it turns golden and achieves a crisp perfection.

  • Add the butter to the pan, followed by the flour, ensuring a thorough mix. Reduce the heat and gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously - until the sauce becomes smooth and velvety.

  • Incorporate the grated cheddar and Emmental cheeses into the sauce, stirring until they melt into a creamy combination of flavours.

  • Reintroduce the cooked cauliflower and macaroni to the sauce, ensuring every element is coated in the cheese sauce. Transfer to an oven-safe dish.

  • For the finishing touch, sprinkle extra pancetta on top and generously layer with mozzarella.

  • Place the dish in the oven, baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top achieves a golden hue and begins to bubble.

  • Your Pancetta and Cauliflower Mac 'n Cheese is ready, remove from the oven, plate up and enjoy.

Tips and Variations-

Herb Infusion:

  • Elevate the dish with a touch of freshness by adding chopped herbs like parsley or thyme before serving.

Spice Enhancement:

  • Boost the flavour with a dash of chili flakes or a hint of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy extra spice.

Crunchy Texture:

  • For added crunch, top the mac 'n cheese with a layer of buttery breadcrumbs before baking.