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4-cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese

4-cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese

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

Description

This 4-cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese combines a luscious blend of four plant-based cheeses with tender macaroni pasta, baked to golden perfection and topped with crispy smoked turkey bacon. Rich, creamy, and full of comfort, it is easy to prepare with simple ingredients and customizable options, making it the perfect cozy meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Macaroni Base

  • 2 cups macaroni pasta

Cheese Sauce

  • 1 1/2 cups plant-based milk
  • 1 tablespoon natural gelling agent
  • 1 cup mixed plant-based cheeses (creamy, sharp, melty blend), diced
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (natural)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)

Topping

  • 1/2 cup plant-based breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup smoked turkey bacon, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook Your Macaroni: Begin by boiling your macaroni pasta in salted water until it is just al dente. This ensures the pasta holds its shape in the oven and soaks up plenty of sauce without becoming mushy. Drain it well and set it aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, whisk together the plant-based milk, natural gelling agent, and diced plant-based cheeses over medium heat. Stir constantly until the cheeses melt completely into a smooth, velvety sauce. Add onion powder, garlic powder, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, and a splash of apple cider vinegar to infuse extra flavor and balance the richness.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni, mixing gently but thoroughly to coat every piece. Transfer this comforting mixture into a greased baking dish, smoothing the top for even baking.
  4. Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle plant-based breadcrumbs evenly over the macaroni and cheese, then scatter the chopped smoked turkey bacon on top for a crunchy contrast. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until the crust turns a delightful golden brown and the sauce bubbles at the edges, about 25-30 minutes.

Notes

  • Choose flavorful plant-based cheeses that melt well to ensure your sauce is creamy and smooth.
  • Keep the macaroni slightly firm since it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • Use fresh plant-based breadcrumbs for a lighter crunch and better browning compared to stale breadcrumbs.
  • Stir the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps and create a silky texture.
  • Allow the baked dish to rest for a few minutes before serving so it sets nicely.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: baked macaroni and cheese, plant-based cheese, comfort food, creamy pasta bake, smoked turkey bacon, vegan cheese sauce

Find it online: https://classicrecipehub.com/4-cheese-baked-macaroni-and-cheese/