The perfect summer comfort food – classic macaroni cheese with extra veggies and herbs
Prep:10 mins
Serves 4
6 rashers streaky bacon, chopped2 leeks, finely sliced into rings1 tbsp vegetable oil140g frozen pea400g macaroni200g pack soft cheese85g mature cheddar, grated1 tbsp English mustardsmall bunch basil, shredded
STEP 1Fry the bacon and leeks in the oil for 10 mins until the bacon is golden and the leeks soft. Tip in the peas and heat through. Meanwhile, boil the pasta and heat the grill to high.STEP 2Reserve 150ml of the cooking water before you drain the pasta, then add it, the soft cheese, half the grated cheese and the mustard to the pan with the veg. Stir until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Stir in most of the basil and the pasta, then scatter with the rest of the cheese. Grill for 2-3 mins until the cheese melts. Scatter with basil to serve.
