Jerk Mac & Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumb Topping
- Preperation Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 people
About this recipe
Jerk Mac and Cheese – Creamy Vegetarian Comfort Food with Caribbean Heat
This Jerk Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy and full of bold Caribbean flavour. A rich cheese sauce is lifted with jerk seasoning, then baked with pasta and finished with a crispy golden breadcrumb topping.
It is comforting, indulgent and perfect for family meals, BBQ sides or vegetarian comfort food. The jerk sauce adds warmth and spice without taking away from the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Chef’s Tips
Do not overcook the pasta before baking, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Use mature cheddar for stronger flavour. Add extra jerk sauce on the side for people who like more heat.
Best Jerk Centre Sauce to Use
Duppy Conqueror — gives a beautiful medium heat that cuts through the richness of the cheese.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190°C.
- Cook the macaroni until just al dente, then drain.
- Melt butter in a pan, stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened.
- Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, mustard, smoked paprika and jerk sauce.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Mix the pasta into the sauce.
- Spoon into a baking dish.
- Mix breadcrumbs, cheddar, melted butter and parsley, then sprinkle over the top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbling and golden.
Ingredients
350g macaroni pasta
2 tablespoons Jerk Centre Duppy Conqueror
50g butter
50g plain flour
600 ml milk
200g mature cheddar, grated
100g mozzarella, grated
1 teaspoon mustard
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper
For the topping:
60g breadcrumbs
30g grated cheddar
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Sauce Used
- Duppy Conqueror
- Medium Jerk Sauce
