Description
To appreciate why this dish stands out, it helps to break down its core elements. Mac and Cheese with Smoked Turkey is an elevated version of the traditional baked pasta dish. It features cooked elbow macaroni suspended in a rich, homemade cheese sauce made from a roux base, whole milk, heavy cream, and a blend of sharp cheddar, stretchy mozzarella, and nutty Parmesan cheeses.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta
- 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
- 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
For the Cheese Sauce
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cheese
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Add-ins
- 2 cups halal smoked turkey, diced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Topping (Optional)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the macaroni until just al dente according to package directions.
- Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the warm milk and heavy cream until smooth.
- Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the Cheese
- Reduce heat to low.
- Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until completely melted and creamy.
- Combine Everything
- Fold the cooked macaroni and diced smoked turkey into the cheese sauce.
- Mix until evenly coated.
- Bake (Optional)
- Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan, then sprinkle over the top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.
- Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
This Mac and Cheese with Smoked Turkey is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy pasta with the rich, smoky flavor of halal turkey. It’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or using up leftover smoked turkey.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups
- Calories: 610 kcal