Bacon and Pesto Mac and Peas

When your pan of water is boiling, stir in the macaroni and bring back to the boil. Cook until tender, 12 mins.

Once cooked, drain in a colander and pop back in the pan. Drizzle with oil and stir through to stop it sticking together.

Meanwhile, heat a drizzle of oil in a large frying pan on medium heat. Melt in the butter (see pantry for amount).

Once hot, add the bacon and fry until golden, 4-5 mins. IMPORTANT: Wash hands and utensils after handling raw meat. Cook it thoroughly.

Next, add the garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 min, then stir in the flour (see pantry for amount) and cook until it forms a paste, 1-2 mins - you've made a roux!

Stir in the water for the sauce (see pantry for amount) a little at a time, followed by the creme fraiche and veg stock paste. 

Bring the sauce to the boil, then lower the heat and simmer, stirring until thickened, 2-3 mins.

Meanwhile, preheat your grill to high.

Once the sauce has thickened, remove from the heat, then stir through the hard Italian style cheese, Cheddar, pesto, peas and cooked macaroni.

Add a splash of water if it's a little thick. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.

Transfer the creamy pasta to an ovenproof dish and top evenly with the herby crumb.

Place your mac and cheese on a baking tray and grill until golden, 4-5 mins.