Vegan Mac and Cheese

Discover the creamy, dreamy world of vegan mac and cheese! This delightful plant-based dish transforms traditional comfort food into a nutritious, flavorful meal everyone can enjoy. Made with wholesome ingredients like raw cashews and nutritional yeast, it boasts a rich, cheesy taste without the dairy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this easy recipe allows for endless customization. Elevate your mac and cheese game today and indulge in a guilt-free feast!

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Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni (gluten-free, if desired)

1 cup raw cashews (soaked in water for at least 4 hours)

1/4 cup nutritional yeast

1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon turmeric (for color)

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish, optional)

Cooked vegetable toppings (like steamed broccoli or peas, optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Prepare the Cashew Cheese Sauce: In a blender, combine the soaked and drained cashews, nutritional yeast, almond milk, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash more of almond milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained macaroni with the cashew cheese sauce. Stir well until all the pasta is coated evenly.

Heat Through: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve: If desired, top with cooked vegetables for added nutrition and a pop of color. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.

Enjoy: Serve warm and creamy!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings