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Vegan Mac and Cheese

Vegan Mac and Cheese

The ultimate comfort food, Vegan Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this easy weeknight dinner will leave everyone asking for seconds. Indulge in this delightful dish tonight!
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Side Dishes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups raw cashews Soaked for a creamy base.
  • 2 cloves garlic Adds robust flavor.
  • 1/2 cup nutritional yeast Imparts cheesy flavor.
  • 1 1/4 cups unsweetened almond milk For a smooth cheese sauce.
  • 1 jalapeño, chopped For spice; deseed if sensitive.
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground turmeric Adds color and flavor.
  • 3/4 teaspoon paprika For a hint of smokiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder Enhances savory flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard Adds a zesty tang.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • Freshly ground black pepper For seasoning.
  • 1 pound shell (Conchiglie) pasta Holds the cheese sauce well.
  • Freshly ground black pepper Garnish before serving.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Food Processor
  • Blender
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Chef's Knife

Method
 

  1. Soak the cashews in four cups of water for at least two hours. If short on time, bring water to a boil, then turn off heat and let the cashews sit in the hot water for thirty to forty-five minutes.
  2. Drain the cashews and place in a high-powered blender. Add the garlic, nutritional yeast, almond milk, jalapeño, turmeric, paprika, onion powder, dijon mustard, salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust thickness with more almond milk if needed.
  3. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
  4. Pour the creamy cashew cheese sauce over the hot pasta and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary!
  5. Garnish with freshly ground black pepper and enjoy your delicious creation!

Notes

  • Tip 1: To make gluten free: feel free to use a gluten free pasta if you’d like.
  • Tip 2: To make ahead of time: this vegan mac and cheese can be made a day or two ahead of time; just add 1 cup more almond milk to the cheese sauce before refrigerating.