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4-cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese

4-cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese

  • Author: Christopher
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This 4-cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a creamy and cheesy plant-based dish combined with smoky turkey bacon for a savory flavor boost. Baked to a golden, bubbly crust with a velvety smooth macaroni base, this recipe offers a comforting, easy-to-make meal perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

Pasta and Bacon

  • Elbow macaroni: 12 ounces
  • Smoked turkey bacon: 6 slices, chopped

Cheese Blend (plant-based)

  • Sharp cheddar cheese (plant-based): 1 cup shredded
  • Mozzarella cheese (plant-based): 1 cup shredded
  • Parmesan cheese (plant-based): 1/2 cup grated
  • Cream cheese (plant-based): 4 ounces

Sauce Ingredients

  • Butter (plant-based): 3 tablespoons
  • All-purpose flour: 3 tablespoons
  • Whole milk (plant-based): 2 1/2 cups
  • Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): 1 teaspoon
  • Dijon mustard (natural): 1 teaspoon
  • Garlic powder (natural): 1/2 teaspoon
  • Onion powder (natural): 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Natural gelling agent: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for sauce consistency)

Topping

  • Breadcrumbs (optional): 1/2 cup, toasted

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente, approximately 1 minute less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped smoked turkey bacon until crisp and browned. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess fat.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt plant-based butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring to remove raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in plant-based milk and continue stirring until thickened. Add plant-based cream cheese, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses slowly, stirring until melted and smooth. Incorporate vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in natural gelling agent if needed to reach desired sauce consistency.
  4. Combine and Prepare to Bake: Mix drained macaroni and crispy turkey bacon into the cheese sauce, coating every noodle well. Pour mixture into a buttered baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if using.
  5. Bake until Golden: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let rest a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh plant-based cheeses for best melting results.
  • Do not overcook pasta to prevent mushiness after baking.
  • Prepare pasta and sauce ahead to save time on baking day.
  • Lightly toast breadcrumbs before topping for extra crunch and flavor.
  • Monitor baking time closely to avoid drying out the sauce.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: baked macaroni and cheese, plant-based cheese, turkey bacon, creamy macaroni, cheesy pasta, baked pasta dish

Find it online: https://easyrecipeplanet.com/4-cheese-baked-macaroni-and-cheese/