Name: Vegan Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 16 oz pasta, cooked; 1 cup unsalted cashews; ¼ cup vegan butter, divided; ⅓ cup yellow onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; ½ tsp smoked paprika; 2 cups almond milk or milk of choice; ½ cup + 2 tbsp nutritional yeast; ½ tsp salt, plus more to taste; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes; 3 tbsp panko breadcrumbs, optional

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Vegan Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that brings together the creamy goodness of traditional mac and cheese while being entirely plant-based. This recipe is not only hearty and delicious, but it also shines with a rich, velvety sauce that coats every bite of pasta, making it a satisfying meal for vegans and non-vegans alike. Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Vegan Mac and Cheese
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Vegan Mac and Cheese

I first stumbled upon this gem during a family gathering, where I was initially hesitant about a vegan version of a childhood favorite. Much to my surprise, one bite was all it took for me to realize how amazing and flavorful this Vegan Mac and Cheese could be! Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner option or hosting a group of friends, this quick, easy, and incredibly budget-friendly recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of cheesy goodness that will bring everyone together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Irresistible Flavor: Creamy, cheesy, and smoky notes from the smoked paprika provide a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The golden topping from panko breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch that’s visually appealing.
Flexible Serving: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or as a snack during movie night—everyone will be back for seconds!
Diet-Friendly Options: Completely vegan, you can easily adapt this dish for gluten-free diets with just a simple pasta swap.

Ingredients You’ll Need

16 oz pasta, cooked: Any short pasta works well here, so use your favorite macaroni, shells, or even gluten-free pasta for a suitable alternative.
1 cup unsalted cashews: This is the base for our creamy sauce. Soaking them in water softens the nuts, eliminating any grit.
¼ cup vegan butter, divided: Adds fat and richness to the dish. You can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
⅓ cup yellow onion, diced: Adds crucial flavor and depth. Consider using sweet onion for a milder taste.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic brings an aromatic kick. Fresh is best, but you can use powdered garlic in a pinch.
½ tsp smoked paprika: This key ingredient gives our cheese sauce a smoky flavor that replicates traditional mac and cheese. Use regular paprika if you prefer a milder taste.
2 cups almond milk or milk of choice: Almond milk keeps it plant-based, but feel free to use soy, oat, or any non-dairy milk that suits your palate.
½ cup + 2 tbsp nutritional yeast: This is what gives our sauce that cheesy flavor without any dairy. It’s a powerhouse for vitamins and nutrients too!
½ tsp salt, plus more to taste: Enhances all the flavors; don’t forget to taste as you go!
¼ tsp red pepper flakes: For a bit of heat, but feel free to adjust according to your spice tolerance.
3 tbsp panko breadcrumbs, optional: These add a crispy texture to the top of your mac and cheese. You can skip them for a simpler version.

How to Make Vegan Mac and Cheese

Cook the Pasta: If you haven’t done so, cook 16 oz of your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to drain it and set it aside; this will be the heart of your dish.

Soak the Cashews: In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup of unsalted cashews and cover them with water. Bring it to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let them simmer for 10-15 minutes until soft, allowing them to easily blend into a creamy sauce.

Sauté the Onion and Garlic: While the cashews are softening, heat 2 tablespoons of vegan butter in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the ⅓ cup of diced yellow onion, minced garlic, and ½ tsp of smoked paprika. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion turns translucent.

Prepare the Cheesy Sauce: Now add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegan butter along with 2 cups of almond milk to the skillet. Gradually bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, slowly whisk in ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, then remove it from the heat.

Blend the Sauce: Once the cashews are done cooking, drain them and immediately transfer them to a high-power blender. Pour the cheesy milk mixture from the skillet over the cashews and blend for about 1 minute until completely smooth and creamy.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the creamy sauce back into the skillet and mix in the cooked pasta, stirring to ensure every piece is well-coated. The sauce will thicken as it cools, but if it seems too runny, heat it gently while stirring frequently until it reaches your desired consistency.

Add the Finishing Touch: Take 3 tablespoons of panko breadcrumbs and sprinkle them over the top of your mac and cheese. Place the skillet under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crispy. This adds a satisfying crunch to the dish!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, place your Vegan Mac and Cheese in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours after cooking, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave portions on medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, or warm on the stovetop with a splash of almond milk to restore creaminess.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the cashews; if they become mushy, they’ll blend too thin. Aim for just soft enough to achieve creaminess.
Always taste as you go! Adjust salt or nutritional yeast based on your preference for flavor.
Want more depth? Consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
If the pasta cools too much while mixing in the sauce, gently reheat it for a minute before serving.
This dish is also excellent topped with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of freshness.

With its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, this vegan twist on a familiar classic is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other spices or veggies to make this dish your own. From a comforting family meal to a potluck favorite, Vegan Mac and Cheese is certain to please everyone at your table. Enjoy every bowlful!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make Vegan Mac and Cheese gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. There are so many great options available today that will work perfectly in this recipe.

What’s the best way to ensure a creamy sauce?

Make sure you soak the cashews long enough before blending them; this will ensure they become silky smooth. A high-power blender can also help achieve the perfect creaminess.

Can I add vegetables to the mac and cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or even roasted bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does this dish last in the fridge?

Vegan Mac and Cheese can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just give it a gentle stir before reheating.

Enjoy crafting this Vegan Mac and Cheese and savor its comforting flavors, whether you’re sharing it with friends or indulging solo. Your taste buds will thank you!