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Jamie Oliver Green Mac and Cheese

Jamie Oliver Green Mac and Cheese

Jamie Oliver’s Green Mac and Cheese is a healthier version of traditional mac and cheese, enriched with green vegetables like spinach, broccoli, and peas blended into the sauce. The result is a vibrant, creamy, and nutrient-packed pasta dish that’s perfect for the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta & Sauce:

  • 300g macaroni (or any short pasta)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 250ml (1 cup) whole milk
  • 100ml (⅓ cup) vegetable stock
  • 100g (1 cup) mature cheddar cheese (grated)
  • 50g (½ cup) Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For the Greens:

  • 100g (1 cup) fresh spinach
  • 100g (1 cup) broccoli (chopped)
  • 75g (½ cup) peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Topping (Optional):

  • 50g (½ cup) breadcrumbs
  • 25g (¼ cup) Parmesan cheese (grated)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the macaroni until al dente, according to package instructions.
  • Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Greens

  • In the same pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the spinach, broccoli, and peas for 2 minutes until softened.
  • Drain and transfer to a blender.

Step 3: Make the Green Cheese Sauce

  • Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
  • Pour in milk and vegetable stock, then bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Add the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper, stirring until melted.
  • Blend the cooked greens with lemon juice and half of the cheese sauce until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

  • Mix the cooked pasta with the blended green sauce and remaining cheese sauce until well coated.

Step 5: Bake for Extra Crunch (Optional)

  • Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.
  • Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish.
  • Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
  • Bake for 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy on top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.