Cauliflower and Bacon Pasta
found in Mains - Pasta
Nut Free |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 35 minutes
Difficulty:
Easy
Cauliflower and macaroni cheese in one pasta bake? This family-friendly gratin is comforting and filling.
Ingredients
- 71⁄2oz smoked streaky bacon
- 11oz dried pasta
- 1 cauliflower, cut into large florets
- 1oz butter
- 1oz flour (plain)
- 11fl oz milk
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 5oz cheddar cheese, grated
- 33⁄4oz wholemeal breadcrumbs
- (OPTIONAL) 33⁄4oz green salad
Directions
1
Heat the grill to high and bring a large pan of salted water to the boil. Grill the bacon slices for 5 mins or until crispy, then drain on kitchen paper and cut into small pieces.
2
Cook the pasta following pack instructions. Add the cauliflower to the pasta pan for the final 8 mins, so that it is just tender, then drain, reserving a small amount of cooking water.
3
Melt the butter in a small pan over a low heat, then stir in the flour and cook for a couple of mins. Gradually stir in the milk, mixing well between each addition. Bring to a simmer, then cook for a few mins until thickened. Season, add the mustard and half the grated cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
4
Tip the pasta and cauliflower back into the pan along with the reserved cooking water. Stir through the cheese sauce and bacon, then transfer the mix to a baking dish. Mix together the breadcrumbs and remaining cheese, then sprinkle over the pasta. Cook for 5 mins under the grill until browned. Serve with a salad, if you like.