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Tini's Mac and Cheese

Tini’s Mac and Cheese

  • Author: Christopher
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Tini’s Mac and Cheese is a rich and creamy comfort food that combines perfectly melted plant-based cheese with the smoky flavor of smoked turkey bacon (substituted for standard bacon). This cozy dish features tender elbow macaroni coated in a velvety cheese sauce made with almond milk and a natural gelling agent for smooth texture. Enhanced with natural mustard, garlic powder, paprika, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), it delivers a flavorful, satisfying meal ideal for cozy dinners or entertaining guests. Garnished with fresh parsley, it offers a delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese that is customizable and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter-flavored plant-based spread
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded or sliced
  • 1 teaspoon natural mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Other Ingredients

  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside while preparing the cheese sauce.
  2. Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a pan over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon slices until crisp. Remove from heat, chop into bite-sized pieces, and keep warm.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt the butter-flavored plant-based spread in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until a smooth paste forms, cooking for about one minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the almond milk slowly to avoid lumps. Stir in the plant-based cheese, natural mustard, garlic powder, paprika, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and natural gelling agent. Continue stirring and cooking until the sauce thickens to a silky, smooth consistency.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce along with the chopped smoked turkey bacon. Mix gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated and warmed through.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the mac and cheese to serving dishes, then sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately while warm and comforting.

Notes

  • Avoid overcooking the pasta to maintain a firm texture that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
  • Keep whisking the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps and ensure smoothness.
  • Use a high-quality plant-based cheese for the best melt and flavor.
  • Make the cheese sauce and cook the bacon ahead of time and combine just before serving to maintain freshness.
  • Adjust the thickness of the cheese sauce by adding more almond milk if it gets too thick or cooking a bit longer if too thin.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: mac and cheese, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, creamy cheese sauce, comfort food, vegan mac and cheese, dairy-free mac and cheese

Find it online: https://easyrecipeplanet.com/tinis-mac-and-cheese/