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Baked Mac and Cheese

Baked Mac and Cheese

  • Author: Brian
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Baked Mac and Cheese recipe features smoky turkey bacon and rich plant-based cheese creating a creamy, comforting dish that is perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. With a smooth, velvety sauce infused with savory spices and topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs, it offers a delicious twist on the traditional favorite that is both satisfying and flavorful.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Proteins

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, diced

Sauce Base

  • 3 tablespoons plant-based butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 cups plant-based milk
  • 2 cups plant-based cheese blend (sharp plant-based cheddar and smoked gouda recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder (natural)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt (natural)
  • 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Topping

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni in generously salted water until just al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to prevent overcooking while preparing the sauce, ensuring the pasta remains firm for baking.
  2. Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced smoked turkey bacon until crispy and golden, releasing smoky flavors and creating crunchy bits to include in the dish.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt plant-based butter in a saucepan, then whisk in the all-purpose flour to form a smooth roux. Gradually add plant-based milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the plant-based cheese blend, mustard powder, garlic powder, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, and a touch of natural gelling agent. Cook on low heat until the sauce thickens to a luscious, creamy consistency.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Gently fold the cooked macaroni and crispy smoked turkey bacon into the cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle is coated evenly. Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased baking dish.
  5. Add the Topping and Bake: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crisp and the sauce is bubbling.

Notes

  • Cook pasta just right to avoid over-softness after baking.
  • Use a sharp plant-based cheese blend for deeper flavor in the sauce.
  • Don’t skip the panko breadcrumb topping for vital texture contrast.
  • Bake at a moderate temperature to keep the sauce smooth and prevent rubbery texture.
  • Let the dish rest a few minutes after baking for cleaner slices.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, plant-based mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, smoked turkey bacon recipe, comfort food, plant-based cheese, easy baked pasta

Find it online: https://puretastekitchen.com/baked-mac-and-cheese/