Comfort in a Bowl
Ever dreamt of a creamy, dreamy bowl of mac and cheese that just happens to be vegan? Let me tell you, this Vegan Mac & Cheese is a game-changer! It’s quick, easy, and super satisfying, all in one pot. No one will ever guess it’s plant-based, and your taste buds will be singing happy songs—trust me!
Why Make This Recipe
Here’s why you’ll want to whip up this recipe ASAP:
- One-Pan Wonder: Less mess means more time for Netflix (or whatever you love!).
- Budget-Friendly: Chestnut check, wallet check—all good!
- Kid-Approved: It’s mac and cheese, folks. What’s not to love?
It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser that doesn’t skimp on flavor. 🍽️
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff—just these basics!
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 2-4 hours and drained)
- 1 cup plant-based milk (such as almond or soy)
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Directions
Let’s make magic happen in just a few steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions; then drain and set aside.
- In a blender, combine the soaked cashews, plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cashew cheese sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden on top.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Make Vegan Mac & Cheese (Overview)
Making this delightful dish is as simple as it gets. First, cook the pasta to al dente perfection. While that’s happening, throw the soaked cashews and other ingredients into a blender. Just blend, baby! Then, mix everything together and pop it into the oven until it’s bubbly and golden. Pro tip: Don’t skip the breadcrumbs if you want that extra crunch!
How to Serve Vegan Mac & Cheese
Serve this Vegan Mac & Cheese in a vibrant bowl, topped with fresh herbs for a pop of color. It’s creamy and rich, with a delightful crunch from those breadcrumbs. Pair it with a light, green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal. The aroma? Pure comfort food bliss. 🌿
How to Store Vegan Mac & Cheese
Got leftovers? No worries! This Vegan Mac & Cheese keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge. You can also freeze it for about a month. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in the oven or microwave. Easy-peasy!
Tips to Make Vegan Mac & Cheese
- Soak cashews well for a super creamy texture—aim for 2-4 hours.
- Feel free to switch up the plant-based milk! Oat milk works magic too.
- For a gourmet twist, add sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms.
- Don’t hesitate to double the recipe if you’re cooking for friends; they’ll love you for it!
Variations
Feeling adventurous? Try adding finely chopped jalapeños for some heat, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a rich, savory twist. You can even use different types of pasta, like whole wheat or gluten-free options, to suit your needs. The world is your oyster! 🐚
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
What can I use instead of cashews?
Sunflower seeds also blend nicely for a nut-free version.
Can I freeze Vegan Mac & Cheese?
You bet! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Vegan Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions; then drain and set aside.
- In a blender, combine the soaked cashews, plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cashew cheese sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden on top.
- Serve warm and enjoy!