Description
Turkey Mac and Cheese Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender elbow macaroni smothered in a rich plant-based cheese sauce combined with smoky smoked turkey bacon, naturally seasoned for ultimate satisfaction. This easy-to-prepare casserole is perfect for family dinners or meal prep, delivering indulgent flavors while remaining flexible to accommodate various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup plant-based cheese (plant-based), shredded or cubed
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter or plant-based butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk or plant-based milk
- 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (natural)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Variations
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili flakes (for spicy twist)
- 1 cup steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach (for veggie-packed)
- 1 cup cooked chicken or smoked turkey slices (for protein boost)
- 1 teaspoon thyme or rosemary (for herbed flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tablespoon plant-based butter (plant-based) (for crunchy topping)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente according to package directions, then drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Prepare the smoked turkey bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, crisp the smoked turkey bacon until browned and crunchy, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- Make the cheese sauce: Melt the butter or plant-based butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about a minute to form a roux. Slowly add milk or plant-based milk while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in plant-based cheese (plant-based), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), mustard powder (natural), salt, pepper, and natural gelling agent until smooth and creamy.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Fold the drained macaroni and crispy smoked turkey bacon into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is coated in that luscious creaminess.
- Bake the casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use sharp plant-based cheese (plant-based) for more intense cheesy flavor.
- Do not overcook the pasta; slightly undercooked pasta softens perfectly during baking without becoming mushy.
- Whisk continuously when making the sauce to avoid lumps and ensure smoothness.
- Add the natural gelling agent gradually to achieve the right consistency without clumps.
- Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking to help it set nicely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Turkey Mac and Cheese, Plant-based Cheese, Smoked Turkey Bacon, Comfort Food, Casserole, Dairy-Free, Family-Friendly
