Description
Tini’s Mac and Cheese is a creamy and comforting dish featuring smooth plant-based cheese sauce and smoky turkey bacon, offering a rich, savory twist to a classic favorite. This versatile recipe balances indulgence and warmth, perfect for cozy meals with easy customization options.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons plant-based butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups plant-based milk
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based cheese (melty cheddar or a blend)
- 1 teaspoon mustard (natural)
- 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- Salt and pepper to taste
Protein
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.
- Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a skillet, cook the smoked turkey bacon over medium heat until crispy and golden. Remove from heat and chop into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the plant-based butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the plant-based milk and continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Add Flavor and Cheese: Stir in the plant-based cheese until melted and smooth. Mix in mustard (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), smoked paprika, and the natural gelling agent to achieve the perfect creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta and smoked turkey bacon into the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat every piece with that irresistible creamy sauce. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use freshly cooked pasta to help it absorb the sauce better without becoming mushy.
- Keep the heat moderate when making the sauce to avoid separation.
- Don’t skip the mustard (natural); it enhances flavor without overpowering the cheese.
- Cook the smoked turkey bacon last so it remains crispy when mixed in.
- Stir constantly when adding plant-based cheese to ensure smooth melting and no clumps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, creamy mac and cheese, vegan mac and cheese, gluten-free mac and cheese
