Craving a comforting bowl of mac and cheese but want to keep it plant-based? Look no further! This easy vegan mac and cheese recipe delivers all the cheesy, creamy goodness you adore without any dairy. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying weekend lunch, or even a crowd-pleasing potluck dish. Get ready to experience the ultimate in homemade comfort food, made deliciously vegan!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for at least 30 minutes)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat work well)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for topping, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Make sure to not overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Cashew Cream
While the pasta cooks, drain and rinse the soaked cashews. Combine the cashews, plant-based milk, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a high-speed blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. This is the magic ingredient that creates that incredibly cheesy texture!
Step 3: Create the Cheesy Sauce
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the first 1/2 cup of nutritional yeast and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This toasting step enhances the cheesy flavor. Pour in the cashew cream and stir well to combine. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked macaroni to the saucepan with the cheesy sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve immediately, topped with extra nutritional yeast if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Add a tablespoon of vegan butter or olive oil to the sauce.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
- Add vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or butternut squash would be delicious additions. Stir them in with the pasta and sauce.
- Make it extra cheesy: Use a combination of nutritional yeast and vegan cream cheese for an even cheesier flavor.
- Boost the protein: Add cooked chickpeas or white beans for extra protein and creaminess.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal. The nutritional information will vary slightly based on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate per serving would be:
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 10-12 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45 grams
This easy vegan mac and cheese is a fantastic example of healthy meals you can whip up quickly. It’s a great quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish—a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of homemade cooking and the best recipes!