The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a creamy, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese. For those following a vegan lifestyle or simply seeking a healthier alternative, The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese is a game-changer. This deliciously rich dish combines the creaminess of cashews with the savory flavors of nutritional yeast and spices, making it a favorite for everyone at the table. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients. Let’s dive into this comforting bowl of goodness!
Why The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese is Worth Your Time
This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s about creating a nourishing meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your body. The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese is packed with plant-based nutrition, protein from cashews, and fiber from whole-grain pasta. It’s a simple dish that can easily be customized, making it suitable for various dietary needs. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this mac and cheese will impress even the most devoted cheese lovers.
What You’ll Gather
To whip up The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 8 ounces whole-grain macaroni elbows (or other egg-free shell shape)
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
Prep & Cook Tools
To make this delightful dish, gather the following tools:
- High-speed blender: This is essential for achieving a smooth and creamy cheese sauce.
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta and broccoli.
- Colander: To drain the pasta once it’s cooked.
- Mixing spoon: For combining everything together.
- Serving dish: To present your delicious creation.
The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese: How It’s Done
Step 1: Soak the Cashews
Begin by soaking 1 cup of raw cashews in water for at least 2 hours. If you’re short on time, a quick soak in hot water for 15-20 minutes will also work. This softens the cashews, making them easier to blend into a creamy sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of whole-grain macaroni elbows (or your preferred egg-free shell shape) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta. Drain both the pasta and broccoli in a colander and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked and drained cashews, 1 cup of hot water, 3 tablespoons of nutritional yeast, 1 teaspoon of chipotle chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin. Blend on high until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
In the large pot you used for cooking the pasta, add the drained macaroni and broccoli, then pour the cheese sauce over the top. Stir well until every piece of pasta and broccoli is coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional kosher salt and black pepper as desired.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your delicious vegan mac and cheese to a serving dish. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some additional nutritional yeast or a dash of smoked paprika on top. Serve warm and watch it disappear!
Variations for Dietary Needs
The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese is versatile and can be tailored to fit various dietary preferences:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute whole-grain macaroni with gluten-free pasta made from brown rice or lentils.
- Nut-Free: Replace cashews with sunflower seeds or use silken tofu for a creamy texture.
- Spicy: Add more chipotle chili powder or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Extra Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables such as spinach, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Learn from These Mistakes
Even seasoned cooks can make mistakes, so here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:
- Be sure to soak the cashews properly; under-soaked nuts can lead to a gritty sauce.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente to maintain texture in the final dish.
- Don’t skip the spices; they elevate the flavor of the cheese sauce significantly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more hot water to achieve your desired consistency.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so delicious!), here’s how to store them:
The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a saucepan over low heat. You may need to add a splash of water or plant-based milk to loosen the sauce as it will thicken when chilled. Stir occasionally until heated through, and enjoy your comforting meal once more!
Reader Questions
Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before mixing it with the cooked pasta and broccoli.
Is there a substitute for nutritional yeast?
If you don’t have nutritional yeast on hand, you can use a small amount of vegan cheese or omit it altogether. However, nutritional yeast adds a unique cheesy flavor that is hard to replicate.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese! Just make sure it’s in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.
What can I serve with this mac and cheese?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or even as a filling for stuffed bell peppers. The possibilities are endless!
Healthy-ish Favorites
If you’re looking for more healthy and delicious recipes, check out these favorites:
Serve & Enjoy
Now that you’ve mastered The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese, it’s time to dig in! This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a comforting weeknight dinner. With its rich and creamy texture, robust flavors, and wholesome ingredients, it’s a delightful meal that everyone will love. Gather your loved ones, serve it up, and enjoy the smiles that come with each delicious bite!
With this recipe in hand, you’re well on your way to creating a vegan mac and cheese that’s not only satisfying but full of flavor. Happy cooking!
The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak 1 cup of raw cashews in water for at least 2 hours or a quick soak in hot water for 15-20 minutes.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of whole-grain macaroni elbows and cook until al dente. In the last 2-3 minutes, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta. Drain and set aside.
- In a high-speed blender, combine soaked cashews, 1 cup of hot water, nutritional yeast, chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, and ground cumin. Blend until smooth.
- In the large pot, add the drained macaroni and broccoli, then pour the cheese sauce over. Stir well to coat and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Transfer to a serving dish. Optionally sprinkle with nutritional yeast or smoked paprika. Serve warm.
Notes
- Soak cashews properly for a smooth sauce.
- Cook pasta al dente to maintain texture.
- Adjust spices for your taste preferences.
- If the sauce is thick, add more hot water to loosen it.
