Name: The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup water ((hot)); 1 cup raw cashews; 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast; 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; 8 ounces whole-grain macaroni elbows (or other egg-free shell shape); 1 head broccoli ((cut into bite-sized florets)); Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)

If you’ve been searching for a creamy, dreamy vegan mac and cheese recipe that will satisfy your cravings without the dairy, look no further! This is The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese you’ll ever make. It’s rich, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, plus it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling good about indulging. Whether you’re a full-time vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is a must-try.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This vegan mac and cheese stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and equipment. Second, it uses raw cashews to create a luscious cheese sauce that rivals any traditional mac and cheese. The addition of nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without any dairy, and spices like chipotle chili powder and smoked paprika give it a smoky kick. Plus, with whole-grain macaroni and broccoli, you can feel good about serving this dish to your family and friends.

What Goes In

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese:

1 cup water (hot)
1 cup raw cashews
3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ 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

Setup & Equipment

Before you dive into making The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese, gather the necessary equipment:

High-speed blender or food processor: For blending the sauce to a creamy perfection.
Large pot: To cook the macaroni and broccoli.
Colander: For draining the pasta.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurement.
Cooking spoon: For stirring.

Directions: The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese

Now, let’s get down to the delicious details of how to make The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese.

Step 1: Soak the Cashews

Begin by soaking the raw cashews in hot water for about 15-20 minutes. This will soften them and make blending easier.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the cashews are soaking, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of kosher salt and the whole-grain macaroni elbows. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3-4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a high-speed blender or food processor. Pour in the hot water, and then add the nutritional yeast, chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, and ground cumin. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as necessary. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a bit more hot water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In the same pot you used to cook the pasta, combine the drained macaroni and broccoli with the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta and broccoli evenly with the sauce. Heat on low for a couple of minutes until warmed through.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Taste your vegan mac and cheese and adjust seasoning with additional kosher salt and black pepper as needed. Serve immediately and enjoy the cheesy goodness!

In-Season Flavor Ideas

To elevate The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese, consider adding some seasonal ingredients for extra flavor and nutrition:

Roasted cherry tomatoes: Add a burst of sweetness and color.
Sautéed mushrooms: For a savory, umami-rich addition.
Spinach or kale: Stir in some greens for added nutrition.
Caramelized onions: For a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.

Slip-Ups to Skip

Even the best of us can run into a few hiccups in the kitchen. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese:

Forgetting to soak the cashews: If you skip this step, your sauce will be grainy instead of creamy.
Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.
Not seasoning enough: Taste the sauce and pasta before serving to ensure the flavors are balanced.
Rushing the blending process: Take your time to blend the cashew sauce until it’s completely smooth.

Save It for Later

If you have leftovers of The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese, you can easily save them for later! Here’s how:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the mac and cheese for up to a month. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of water or plant-based milk to loosen the sauce, and warm it gently on the stove.

Ask & Learn

Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Yes! You can substitute the cashews with silken tofu or a nut-free cheese alternative to achieve a creamy consistency without nuts.

What can I use instead of nutritional yeast?

If you don’t have nutritional yeast, you can try using a store-bought vegan cheese or even a bit of vegan cream cheese for flavor, though the texture may vary.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add cooked chickpeas, lentils, or even vegan sausage to boost the protein content of your mac and cheese.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta in place of the whole-grain macaroni to make this dish gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

In Closing

This recipe for The Best Vegan Mac and Cheese is a game-changer. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or pairing it with your favorite veggie sides, this dish is comfort food at its finest. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and adjusting to your personal taste, so don’t hesitate to add your own spin to it. Happy cooking!