METHOD

For the Bolognese

1. Heat the oven to 170C.

2. On the stove heat the oil in a heavy based Casserole.

3. Slice the bacon finely and fry in a heavy based casserole until crispy and brown, remove from the pan.

4. Add the beef mince, season and cook until brown.

5. Return the bacon and add the crushed garlic. Cook for a couple of minutes without colouring.

6. Add the tomatoes and break the pieces up if required.

7. Add the thyme sprigs and season.

8. Place the lid on the casserole and put in the oven for 90mins or until the meat has softened and the sauce thickened.

9. Season to taste if required. 

For the Mac and Cheese

1. Heat the butter and flour in a heavy based pan and cook for a couple of minutes.

2. Whisk the milk in slowly until a sauce consistency is achieved.

3. Add 150g of the Cheddar and Applewood and whisk until it melts.

4. Stir in the cooked Macaroni.

To Finish

1. Pour the Mac and Cheese over the Bolognese in the casserole.

2. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and bake in the oven until heated through and brown on top.