Description
Tini’s Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting plant-based twist on the classic favorite. Featuring velvety plant-based cheese sauce and smoky turkey bacon, this quick and easy recipe delivers rich flavors with simple ingredients, perfect for cozy dinners or meal sharing.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tbsp plant-based butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (plant-based)
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based cheese, shredded or grated
- 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tsp mustard (natural)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly cracked
- 1/2 tsp natural gelling agent
Additional Ingredients
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 7 to 8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep the perfect texture that holds the sauce well.
- Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon: While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the smoked turkey bacon slices until crisp and browned. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, then chop into bite-sized pieces to add a smoky savory crunch to the dish.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the plant-based butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until it becomes lightly golden. Slowly add the plant-based milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the plant-based cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), mustard (natural), smoked paprika, freshly cracked black pepper, and the natural gelling agent. Stir well to achieve the ideal creamy texture.
- Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked macaroni and chopped smoked turkey bacon to the cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly to coat all the pasta evenly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together and thicken slightly.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pot from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives over the mac and cheese. Serve immediately while hot for the best comfort and indulgence experience.
Notes
- Use freshly grated plant-based cheese for a smoother melt and creamier texture.
- Do not overcook the pasta; keep it al dente to avoid mushiness after combining with the sauce.
- Whisk constantly when making the roux and cheese sauce to prevent lumps and ensure silky consistency.
- Taste the sauce before combining to balance creaminess, tanginess, and seasoning perfectly.
- Add cheese off heat to prevent grainy texture and overheating of the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, comfort food, creamy, cheesy, easy recipe
