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Baked Mac and Cheese with Mozzarella and Cheddar

Baked Mac and Cheese with Mozzarella and Cheddar

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

Description

Baked Mac and Cheese with Mozzarella (plant-based) and Cheddar (plant-based) is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring creamy, cheesy sauce and a perfectly golden top. Combining the stretch of mozzarella (plant-based) and sharpness of cheddar (plant-based), this recipe offers a rich, family-friendly comfort food that is versatile for any meal occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tbsp plant-based butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (plant-based)
  • 1 tsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1/2 tsp mustard powder (natural)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella (plant-based)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar (plant-based)
  • 1/2 tsp natural gelling agent

Toppings & Mix-ins

  • 1/2 cup crispy smoked turkey bacon pieces
  • 1/2 tsp paprika (natural)
  • Extra shredded cheddar (plant-based) for topping, about 1/2 cup

Instructions

  1. 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 instructions, then drain and set aside to prevent mushiness after baking.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt plant-based butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth and cook for about 2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in whole milk (plant-based), stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Stir in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), mustard powder (natural), salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low, then add shredded mozzarella (plant-based) and cheddar (plant-based), stirring until fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Stir in the natural gelling agent to stabilize the sauce.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until all noodles are well-coated. Fold in crispy smoked turkey bacon pieces for added flavor and texture.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture into a buttered baking dish. Sprinkle paprika (natural) and extra shredded cheddar (plant-based) on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Notes

  • Choose quality plant-based mozzarella and cheddar for best flavor and texture.
  • The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but remain pourable to avoid dry baked mac and cheese.
  • Do not overcook pasta to keep it al dente and prevent sogginess after baking.
  • Add texture with smoked turkey bacon or toasted panko breadcrumbs.
  • Allow baked mac and cheese to rest slightly before serving for easier portioning.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, plant-based cheese, mozzarella, cheddar, comfort food, family friendly, creamy mac and cheese

Find it online: https://quicktastykitchen.com/baked-mac-and-cheese-with-mozzarella-and-cheddar/