Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese

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Bowl of easy vegan mac and cheese topped with herbs and spices

Welcome to the ultimate guide to making Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese. This creamy, delicious dish is perfect for anyone, whether you follow a vegan diet or simply seek a tasty, plant-based alternative to traditional mac and cheese. This recipe is incredibly simple, quick, and offers a rich flavor that everyone will enjoy. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this vegan mac and cheese satisfies cravings without compromising on taste.

Why make this recipe

Vegan Mac and Cheese is an excellent choice for several reasons. First, it’s made with healthy and natural ingredients that are kind to your body and the environment. Unlike traditional mac and cheese, this recipe skips the dairy and incorporates nutritious vegetables, creating a guilt-free indulgence.

Second, this dish caters to various dietary restrictions. It’s dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy. It’s also nut-free and gluten-free if you choose the right pasta options. You can enjoy this recipe at any time, whether as a quick meal for yourself or as a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings.

Lastly, this Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese is incredibly versatile. You can customize it according to your taste. Add your favorite spices or herbs, include extra veggies, or even modify the main ingredients to suit your preferences. With this recipe in hand, you’ll always have a delicious vegan option ready to serve.

How to make Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese

Making Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills. Follow these simple steps to create a delightful meal in no time.

Ingredients:

  • 1 box macaroni or shell pasta (500 grams)
  • 2 medium russet potatoes, chopped (about 2 cups)
  • 2 medium white onions, roughly chopped
  • 5 cloves garlic
  • 1/3 cup cashews
  • 1 cup butternut squash, frozen and cubed
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • 1 tablespoon tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon miso paste or soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Pinch yellow curry powder (optional)
  • 5 splashes hot sauce
  • Sea salt and black pepper to taste
  • Garnish: Panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, parsley, nutritional yeast

Directions:

  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while preparing the cheese sauce.

  2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, add the chopped potatoes, white onions, garlic, and cashews. Pour in about 3 cups of water or just enough to cover the ingredients. Microwave on high for 3 to 5 minutes.

  3. Next, add the frozen cubed butternut squash to the bowl. Continue to microwave in 1-minute increments until the potatoes are soft and easily pierced with a fork.

  4. Once the vegetables are soft, drain any remaining liquid. Then, add the vegetable broth to the bowl and blend the mixture until it becomes creamy.

  5. Now, add the nutritional yeast, tahini, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, miso paste or soy sauce, paprika, mustard powder, nutmeg, and hot sauce to the blended sauce. Blend everything until thoroughly combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the flavor by adding more salt, pepper, or hot sauce if desired. If you enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of yellow curry powder.

  6. Pour the creamy sauce over the cooked macaroni. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly. For an added crunch and flavor, garnish with panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, parsley, and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.

How to serve Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese

Serving Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese is as easy as can be. You can dish it out immediately after preparing, serving it hot and fresh. Consider pairing it with a simple side salad for added freshness. This dish also shines as a side for barbecues or potlucks. Whether you scoop it onto plates or serve it straight from the pot, your friends and family will love this creamy delight.

How to store Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese

If you have leftovers, store them properly to maintain freshness. Allow the mac and cheese to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave or on the stove while adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to bring back its creamy texture.

Tips to make Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese

  1. Choose Your Pasta: Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta. Gluten-free options like brown rice or quinoa pasta work well if you need a gluten-free version.

  2. Add Extra Flavor: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices. A touch of cayenne pepper or turmeric can add a zing.

  3. Richness Variations: For a creamier sauce, try adding soaked cashews ahead of time or using a vegan cream.

  4. Vegetable Additions: You can incorporate other vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients and flavor.

  5. Texture Additions: Consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas for added texture and protein.

Variation (if any)

There are many ways to modify this Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese recipe. For a different flavor profile, try adding herbs like thyme or basil. Swap butternut squash for sweet potato for a different taste. You may also experiment with different types of cheese alternatives to enhance flavor while remaining vegan. If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika or even incorporating liquid smoke into the sauce.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes! Simply omit the cashews and use sunflower seeds or silken tofu instead.

Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work fine in this recipe.

Is this mac and cheese gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Just check the brand for any gluten-containing ingredients.

How long does it take to prepare?
The total prep time is around 10 minutes, and the cook time is about 20 minutes, making a total of about 30 minutes.

How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe serves approximately 4 to 6 people.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 68g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Sodium: 300mg

Enjoy your Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese! This fulfilling dish is sure to impress your taste buds while keeping your meals nutritious and wholesome.

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