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4-cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese

4-cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese


  • Author: Anthony
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Creamy 4-cheese baked macaroni and cheese featuring smoked turkey bacon and rich plant-based cheeses, baked to a golden, crispy finish. A perfect balance of gooey cheese, smoky flavors, and crunchy topping, ideal for cozy dinners or sharing with loved ones.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Bacon

  • 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni pasta
  • 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped

Cheese Sauce

  • 1/4 cup plant-based butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 cup sharp plant-based cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup plant-based mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup plant-based gouda cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup plant-based parmesan cheese, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Topping

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons plant-based butter

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking during baking.
  2. Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon: Chop the smoked turkey bacon into bite-sized pieces. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until crisp and fragrant. Set aside, reserving the drippings.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt plant-based butter over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour until smooth, cooking for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add unsweetened almond milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once thickened, stir in the four plant-based cheeses until melted and creamy. Add vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), smoked paprika (natural), and natural gelling agent, stirring to bind the sauce perfectly.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold the cooked macaroni and crispy smoked turkey bacon into the cheese sauce, coating all pieces evenly.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with plant-based butter and sprinkle evenly on top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated plant-based cheeses for better melting and flavor.
  • Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness after baking.
  • Melt cheese sauce slowly over gentle heat to keep it silky.
  • Mix breadcrumbs with plant-based butter for an evenly toasted topping.
  • Let the dish rest after baking for the sauce to set and for clean slicing.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: baked macaroni and cheese, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, creamy, comfort food, gluten free