Carmarthenshire-inspired Creamy Leek and Cheese Pasta Bake

Ingredients

This Carmarthenshire-inspired pasta bake takes inspiration from the Bahamian Macaroni & Cheese but incorporates the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Carmarthenshire cuisine. Instead of using traditional Bahamian spices, this recipe highlights the delicate sweetness of leeks, which are a staple in Carmarthenshire cooking. The dish also features a golden breadcrumb crust, adding a delightful crunch to each bite. We alse have the original recipe for Bahamian Macaroni & Cheese, so you can check it out.

• 300g (10.5 oz) pasta 300g (10.5 oz) pasta
• 2 large leeks, thinly sliced 2 large leeks, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 500ml (2 cups) milk 500ml (2 cups) milk
• 200g (7 oz) cheddar cheese, grated 200g (7 oz) cheddar cheese, grated
• 50g (1.75 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated 50g (1.75 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 100g (3.5 oz) breadcrumbs 100g (3.5 oz) breadcrumbs

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 550 kcal / 2300 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. 3.
   In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and sauté until they become soft and slightly caramelized.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle the flour over the leeks and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
5. 5.
   Gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
6. 6.
   Remove the pan from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until well combined.
8. 8.
   Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Leeks — Make sure to thoroughly wash the leeks to remove any dirt or sand trapped between the layers. Slice them thinly for a delicate texture in the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more indulgent version, add crispy bacon bits to the pasta bake before baking.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Caerphilly or Red Leicester, to add unique flavors to the dish.
• To make it more colorful, add some blanched green peas or sautéed mushrooms to the pasta bake.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top before baking.
• Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and delicious meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Carmarthenshire-inspired creamy leek and cheese pasta bake as a main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. It can also be served as a side dish alongside roasted meats or grilled fish.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top of the baked pasta. Serve it in individual ramekins or a large baking dish, allowing the golden crust to be visible.