Turkey and macaroni cheese is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender turkey, creamy macaroni, and a flavorful cheese sauce. This recipe takes the classic macaroni and cheese to the next level by adding turkey rashers and tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor and texture. The dish is then finished off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a touch of basil for a fresh and aromatic twist. Perfect for a family dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly day, turkey and macaroni cheese offers a delicious combination of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. Follow this recipe to create a creamy and cheesy dish that is sure to become a new favorite in your household.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 150ml/5fl oz vegetable stock
- 25g/1oz low-fat spread
- 25g/1oz plain flour
- 300ml/10fl oz skimmed milk
- 50g/2oz low-fat Cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 225g/8oz macaroni
- 4 rashers smoked turkey, halved
- 3 tomatoes, sliced
- 3 fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
PREPARATIONS:
- Put the chopped onion and vegetable stock in a non-stick frying pan. Bring it to a boil, stirring occasionally, and cook for 5-6 minutes until the stock has reduced entirely and the onion is transparent.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the low-fat spread. Add the plain flour and milk to the saucepan and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk the mixture together over medium heat until it thickens and becomes smooth.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and add the grated low-fat Cheddar cheese, mustard powder, and cooked onion from the frying pan. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Cook the macaroni in a large pot of lightly salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the macaroni thoroughly and stir it into the cheese sauce mixture. Transfer the mixture to a shallow ovenproof dish.
- Arrange the halved turkey rashers and sliced tomatoes on top of the macaroni cheese, overlapping them. Tuck in the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Place the dish under the preheated grill and cook until the top is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
- Serve the turkey and macaroni cheese hot.
YIELD: Serves 4
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preference.
- Be careful when handling the hot grill and ovenproof dish to prevent burns.
- Make sure to cook the macaroni until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when baked in the oven.
TIPS:
- Serve the turkey and macaroni cheese as a main course with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding additional vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper on top before grilling.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gouda or Monterey Jack, for variations in flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
In conclusion, turkey and macaroni cheese is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender turkey, creamy macaroni, and a flavorful cheese sauce. This recipe takes the classic macaroni and cheese to the next level by adding smoked turkey rashers and sliced tomatoes, creating a dish with added flavor and texture. Topped with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, this dish is a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy, and aromatic elements.
By following the preparation steps carefully, you can create a creamy and cheesy turkey and macaroni dish that will satisfy your cravings. Serve it as a main course with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.
So preheat your grill, cook the macaroni until al dente, mix it with the cheese sauce, and top it with smoked turkey, tomatoes, basil, and Parmesan cheese. Enjoy the comforting and flavorful goodness of this turkey and macaroni cheese dish.
