Vegan Mac and Cheese Recipe

Vegan Mac and Cheese

Craving the ultimate comfort food but want to keep it plant-based? This Vegan Mac and Cheese will satisfy your cheesy cravings without any dairy! Perfect for vegans, those with dietary restrictions, or anyone looking to try something new, this recipe is creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. The secret lies in a luscious, velvety cheese sauce made from simple, wholesome ingredients like cashews, nutritional yeast, and plant-based milk. Nutritional yeast adds that signature cheesy flavor, while lemon juice and miso paste bring a delightful tanginess and depth. A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, and smoked paprika creates a rich, savory profile that will have you coming back for seconds.

This recipe is versatile and customizable—feel free to add your favorite veggies or toppings for extra texture and flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, this Vegan Mac and Cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s nut-free adaptable and can be made gluten-free with the right pasta. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this comforting, dairy-free delight!

Vegan Mac and Cheese Ingredients

• For the pasta:

  • 12 oz (340g) lentil or rice based elbow macaroni (or any pasta of choice)

  • 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)

• For the cheese sauce:

  • 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 1 hour, or boiled for 10 minutes to soften)

  • 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (e.g., almond, oat, or soy)

  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)

  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (for tanginess)

  • 1 tbsp white miso paste (optional, for depth of flavor)

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 1 tsp turmeric

  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)

  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

• For topping (optional):

  • Breadcrumbs or panko

  • Fresh parsley or chives

  • A drizzle of olive oil

Vegan Mac and Cheese Instructions

1. Cook the pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the cheese sauce:

   • Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a high-speed blender.

   • Add the plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, miso paste, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper.

   • Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more plant-based milk until you reach your desired consistency.

3. Combine pasta and sauce:

   • In a large bowl or pot, mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.

4. Optional baking step:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • In a skillet add breadcrumbs or panko and drizzle with a little olive oil.

   • Bake for 5–8 minutes (until lightly brown)

   • Add the panko topping over top of the mac and cheese

5. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Health and Nutrition of Vegan Mac and Cheese with Lentil or Rice Pasta

This Vegan Mac and Cheese is a nourishing and wholesome dish that combines the comfort of a classic favorite with the benefits of plant-based ingredients. By using lentil or rice-based pasta, this recipe becomes even more nutritious, offering additional protein, fiber, and gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions.

Lentil pasta is a fantastic choice for boosting the nutritional profile of this dish. Made from lentil flour, it’s naturally high in plant-based protein, providing all nine essential amino acids. This makes it an excellent option for vegans and vegetarians looking to meet their protein needs. Lentil pasta is also rich in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and keeps you feeling full longer. Additionally, lentils are packed with iron, folate, and magnesium, which are essential for energy production, red blood cell formation, and muscle function.

If you opt for rice-based pasta, you’ll still enjoy a gluten-free alternative that’s gentle on the digestive system. Brown rice pasta, in particular, retains more nutrients than white rice pasta, including fiber, manganese, and B vitamins. While it’s lower in protein compared to lentil pasta, it pairs perfectly with the protein-rich cashew sauce to create a balanced meal.

The cashew-based cheese sauce adds healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which support heart health and reduce inflammation. Cashews also provide magnesium, zinc, and plant-based protein, making the sauce both creamy and nutritious. Nutritional yeast contributes a cheesy flavor while delivering B vitamins, including B12 (if fortified), which is crucial for nerve function and energy metabolism. It’s also a source of protein and fiber.

Turmeric and smoked paprika not only enhance the flavor but also bring anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Turmeric’s curcumin has been linked to reduced inflammation and improved brain health, while paprika is rich in vitamin A, supporting vision and immune function.

By using unsweetened plant-based milk, such as almond, oat, or soy, this recipe remains dairy-free while providing calcium and vitamin D (if fortified), essential for bone health. Soy milk, in particular, adds extra protein, making it a great choice for boosting the dish’s nutritional value.

Overall, this Vegan Mac and Cheese with lentil or rice pasta is a balanced, nutrient-dense meal that combines comfort with health. It’s rich in protein, fiber, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a satisfying and nourishing option for anyone looking to enjoy a classic dish in a healthier, plant-based way.