Ingredients
Pasta and Cheese
- 300 g (~ 2 cups) uncooked macaroni
- 650 ml (~ 2 1/2 cups) milk (full fat or semi-skimmed, not low fat)
- 100 g grated cheddar cheese (~ 1 cup when grated)
- 200 g (~ 7 oz) block of feta cheese
Seasonings and Vegetables
- 1 tsp minced garlic or garlic puree
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried mixed herbs
- 1 large handful fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- ~ 8 good quality cherry tomatoes, halved
- 75 ml (~ 1/4 cup) water (if needed)
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: Add the uncooked macaroni, milk, grated cheddar cheese, minced garlic, and black pepper to a baking dish (approximately 8 x 8 inches). Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all components. Place the block of feta cheese in the center on top of the pasta, then sprinkle with dried mixed herbs and a little extra black pepper to add aroma and flavor.
- Bake the dish: Bake the uncovered dish at 190°C (Gas Mark 5 / 375°F) for about 30 minutes. During this time, the macaroni will cook in the milk and cheese, and the feta will soften. After baking, break up the feta with a spoon or spatula and stir the mixture thoroughly to combine the flavors and create a creamy texture.
- Add vegetables and finish baking: Add the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes to the dish and stir again to distribute. If the mixture appears too thick or the pasta needs more cooking, add up to 75 ml (1/4 cup) of water to loosen it. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, until the spinach has wilted and the tomatoes are warmed through, finishing the cooking process and melding the flavors.
Notes
- Using full fat or semi-skimmed milk ensures a rich and creamy sauce; avoid low-fat milk for best texture.
- You can substitute the macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli if preferred.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and black pepper to taste depending on your flavor preference.
- If the pasta absorbs too much liquid and the dish looks dry, add a bit more milk or water during baking.
- For vegetarian diets, ensure the cheeses used are suitable and do not contain animal rennet.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western / Comfort Food
- Diet: Vegetarian
