Creamy Vegan Mac & Cheese

Baking your Cheesy Dreamy Vegan Mac & Cheese can elevate it from delicious to extraordinary. When you bake this dish, the flavors meld beautifully, and the topping can develop a deliciously crispy texture that contrasts with the creamy pasta.

Discover the ultimate plant-based comfort food with Cheesy Dreamy Vegan Mac & Cheese. This rich and creamy dish is made from wholesome ingredients like nutritional yeast and raw cashews, creating a velvety texture and cheesy flavor that rivals traditional recipes. Perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike, this mac and cheese is not only indulgent but also packed with nutrition. Customize it with spices, veggies, or baking for an extra crunch and experience the delightful satisfaction of vegan dining.

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Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni (gluten-free if desired)

1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4-6 hours)

1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)

1/4 cup nutritional yeast

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp turmeric (for color)

Salt to taste

Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

1 tbsp olive oil

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cashew Cream:

- In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the soaked and drained cashews, plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, turmeric, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste the mixture and adjust salt and spices according to your preference.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked macaroni to the pan, then pour in the creamy cashew mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring all the pasta is coated in the sauce. Cook on low for about 2-3 minutes, just enough to heat everything through.

(Optional) Bake for a Crunchy Topping:

- If you'd like a crunchy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly on top, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Serve:

- Once done, remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy your creamy and dreamy vegan mac & cheese!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

30 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings