Indulge guilt-free with our Creamy Vegan Mac & Cheese—packed with wholesome, plant-based ingredients that nourish your body while satisfying your comfort food cravings. Rich in flavor, low in guilt, and perfect for a healthier twist on a classic favorite!
Image source: AI-generated
Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 large white onion, thinly sliced
- ¾ cup peeled potato, cubed
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1½ cups water (+ more as needed)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or miso
- 1 tsp mustard (Dijon or yellow)
- 2 tsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 14 oz dried macaroni (or gluten-free pasta)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
Directions
1. Make the Cheese Sauce
- Sauté Onions: Heat 4 tbsp olive oil in a pot over medium-low. Cook onions for 10 mins until caramelized.
- Simmer: Add potato, cashews, water, paprika, garlic, nutritional yeast, soy sauce, and mustard. Bring to a boil, then simmer 15 mins until potatoes are tender.
- Blend: Transfer to a blender with vinegar/lemon juice. Blend until smooth, adding water if too thick. Season with salt & pepper.
2. Cook Pasta & Assemble
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and return to pot.
- Pour sauce over pasta; stir to coat. Transfer to an ovenproof dish.
3. Crispy Topping
- Mix breadcrumbs with remaining 2 tbsp olive oil and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle over pasta.
- Broil under a high grill for 2-3 mins until golden (watch closely!).
Why You’ll Love It:
- Ultra-Creamy: Cashews and potatoes create a luscious, dairy-free sauce.
- Smoky Depth: Paprika and nutritional yeast add umami richness.
- Meal-Prep: Sauce keeps refrigerated for 3 days or frozen for 1 month.
Kid-approved and comfort-food perfection! 🧀🌱
Optional add-ins: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or vegan bacon bits.
