Description
Enjoy a cozy and flavorful Turkey Mac and Cheese Casserole featuring creamy plant-based cheese, tender elbow macaroni, and smoky smoked turkey bacon and smoked turkey slices. This comforting one-pot dish combines velvety cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta and a crispy panko topping for a delicious family meal that satisfies all ages.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 1 cup smoked turkey slices, chopped
- 2 cups plant-based cheese, shredded
- 3 tbsp plant-based butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups plant-based milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder (natural)
- 1 tsp onion powder (natural)
- 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs (gluten-free if needed)
- ¼ tsp natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta and Smoked Turkey Bacon: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until just tender but still firm to the bite (al dente). Meanwhile, cook the smoked turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until golden and slightly crispy. Chop the smoked turkey slices into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the plant-based butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour to form a roux. Gradually pour in the plant-based milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. When the sauce thickens, reduce heat and stir in the plant-based cheese until it melts smoothly. Add garlic powder, onion powder, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine the flavors.
- Combine All Ingredients: Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the cheese sauce along with the smoked turkey bacon and chopped smoked turkey slices. Stir gently but thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the panko bread crumbs and the natural gelling agent on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, until the top is golden brown, crisp, and the casserole is bubbling.
Notes
- Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
- Use low heat when melting cheese to keep sauce silky smooth.
- Freshly cooked smoked turkey bacon adds ideal crispiness.
- Do not skip the bread crumbs; they provide crucial texture contrast.
- Season the cheese sauce gradually, tasting as you go for perfect balance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Turkey Mac and Cheese, Plant-Based Cheese, Smoked Turkey Bacon, Comfort Food, Casserole, Gluten Free
