Afterschool Cheesy Pasta

When the kids burst in the door starving, this pasta dish ticks all the boxes. My two absolutely love it and it always fills the gap until dinnertime. You can use any pasta they prefer, and the rest of the ingredients are simple staples you’ll already hav

Afterschool Cheesy Pasta

SERVES

5

PEOPLE

PREP TIME

5

MINUTES

COOKING TIME

15

MINUTES

Ingredients

  • 200g pasta

  • 100g pancetta cubes or chopped rashers (optional)

  • 25g butter

  • 25g flour

  • 200ml milk

  • 150ml fresh cream

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

  • 100g grated white cheddar

  • Salt

  • Pepper

  • Handful of fresh parsley 

Method

  1. Cook the pasta according to the packet instructions.

  2. If using pancetta or bacon, fry until golden and set aside.

  3. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then add the flour and stir to combine, cooking for a minute.

  4. Add the milk and cream to a jug and gradually whisk into the roux until smooth.

  5. Simmer until thickened, then stir in the mustard and nutmeg if using.

  6. Add the cheese and allow it to melt into the sauce.

  7. Season to taste. Strain and rinse the pasta, then fold it into the cheese sauce along with the cooked pancetta or bacon.

  8. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

  9. Sarah’s secrets: Let the kids choose their favourite pasta shape to get them involved in dinner.

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