Vegan mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort dish for everyone—from die-hard vegans to those just looking for a healthier, plant-based meal. This recipe is rich, creamy, and satisfying without a drop of dairy. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even as a holiday side.
Ingredients for the Creamiest Vegan Mac and Cheese
Here’s what you’ll need:
Pasta
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you love!)
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups raw cashews, soaked in hot water for 10-15 minutes
- 1 ¼ cups unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (to add a slight tang)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
Optional Toppings
- Chopped chives or parsley (for freshness and garnish)
- Breadcrumbs (for a crispy finish)
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Your Ingredients
- Soak the cashews in hot water. Soaking softens them, making the sauce creamier.
- Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2: Blend the Sauce
In a high-speed blender, add the soaked cashews, plant-based milk, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture is silky smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary.
3: Combine Sauce and Pasta
- Pour the sauce into a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sauce is hot and slightly thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan, stirring well to coat each piece with the creamy sauce.
4. Add Optional Toppings and Bake
For a crispy, baked finish, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly. Garnish with chives or parsley, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Mac and Cheese
- Use high-quality nutritional yeast: This ingredient is essential for that rich, cheesy taste. Make sure it’s fresh and stored properly.
- Experiment with toppings: Adding roasted vegetables or smoky vegan bacon bits can elevate the dish.
- Blend thoroughly: Achieving a creamy texture requires a high-speed blender. If you don’t have one, soak the cashews longer to ensure they blend smoothly.
What Makes This Vegan Mac and Cheese Healthy?
Dairy-Free and Cholesterol-Free
Traditional mac and cheese is rich in dairy, which can be high in cholesterol and saturated fats. This vegan version replaces dairy with wholesome ingredients like cashews and plant-based milk, making it heart-healthy and kinder to your body.
Loaded with Nutrients
Nutritional yeast is not only a flavor booster but is also high in B vitamins, which are essential for energy and metabolism. Cashews offer healthy fats and protein, while plant-based milk keeps the dish light.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Side Dish: Vegan mac and cheese is also a perfect side for gatherings, potlucks, and holidays.
- As a Main Dish: Serve this mac and cheese with a side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, for a well-rounded meal.
Vegan Mac and Cheese
Description
Vegan mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort dish for everyone—from die-hard vegans to those just looking for a healthier, plant-based meal. This recipe is rich, creamy, and satisfying without a drop of dairy. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even as a holiday side.
Ingredients
Pasta
Sauce Ingredients
Optional Toppings
Instructions
-
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Soak the cashews in hot water. Soaking softens them, making the sauce creamier.
- Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
-
Step 2: Blend the Sauce
In a high-speed blender, add the soaked cashews, plant-based milk, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture is silky smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary.
-
Step 3: Combine Sauce and Pasta
- Pour the sauce into a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sauce is hot and slightly thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan, stirring well to coat each piece with the creamy sauce.
-
Step 4: Add Optional Toppings and Bake
For a crispy, baked finish, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly. Garnish with chives or parsley, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12g19%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Protein 10g20%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute cashews with sunflower seeds.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Add a splash of plant-based milk to reheat and restore creaminess.
