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Baked Mac and Cheese

Baked Mac and Cheese

  • Author: Kevin
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Easy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe is a creamy, cheesy comfort food with a plant-based twist. Featuring tender elbow macaroni coated in a rich, velvety plant-based cheese sauce and baked to golden bubbly perfection, it’s perfect for cozy weeknight meals. Enhanced with smoked turkey bacon crumbles and natural seasonings, this wholesome and customizable dish is loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni

Sauce

  • 3 tbsp plant-based butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
  • 3 cups plant-based milk
  • 2 cups plant-based cheese, shredded
  • 1 tsp mustard powder (natural)
  • 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp natural gelling agent

Topping

  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 cup smoked turkey bacon, crumbled

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook until just al dente, about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain well and set aside; the pasta will finish cooking in the oven and absorb the sauce.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the plant-based butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste and bubbles lightly. Gradually whisk in the plant-based milk to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the plant-based cheese, mustard powder, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce and mix well, ensuring every piece is coated. Stir in the natural gelling agent to give the sauce extra body that sets beautifully when baked.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top with paprika and smoked turkey bacon crumbles. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Notes

  • Do not overcook pasta; cook to al dente to prevent mushiness after baking.
  • Choose quality plant-based cheese for the creamiest results.
  • Whisk constantly when making the sauce to avoid lumps.
  • Use fresh spices like paprika and mustard powder for enhanced flavor.
  • Let the mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes after baking so the sauce sets nicely.
  • For extra crispy topping, add toasted breadcrumbs or more smoked turkey bacon crumbles before baking.
  • This recipe can be customized with added veggies, proteins, or fresh herbs.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, plant-based mac and cheese, vegan mac and cheese, comfort food, easy dinners, gluten-free mac and cheese, cheesy pasta bake

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