Name: Vegan Mac and Cheese Deluxe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta of choice; 1 cup raw cashews (soaked); 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk; 1/4 cup nutritional yeast; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic (or 1 tsp garlic powder); 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste); 1/4 tsp turmeric (optional, for color); 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor); Optional toppings: vegan breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, or steamed vegetables

This Vegan Mac and Cheese Deluxe is a creamy, dairy-free take on a comfort food classic. Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s guilt-free and delicious. Nutritional yeast, cashews, and plant-based milk create a luscious sauce, while pasta provides the perfect vehicle for the rich, cheesy flavor. Perfect for a cozy, healthy dinner!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Soak Cashews: Soak cashews in hot water for at least 15 minutes to ensure a creamy texture when blended.
Blend Smoothly: Use a high-speed blender for a velvety sauce.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Undercook pasta slightly to avoid mushiness when mixed with the sauce.
Season Generously: Adjust salt, garlic, and lemon to taste for a balanced flavor.
Reheat Gently: Reheat leftovers on low heat with a splash of plant-based milk to maintain creaminess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with this Vegan Mac and Cheese Deluxe for its wholesome ingredients, creamy texture, and satisfying cheesy flavor—all without dairy! It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for kids and adults alike, and suits various dietary preferences. With its nutrient-rich sauce and customizable add-ins, it’s both indulgent and nutritious.

Yield: Serves 4

Vegan Mac and Cheese Deluxe

Creamy vegan mac and cheese packed with healthy, plant-based ingredients for a guilt-free and comforting dinner option.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Additional Time 15 minutes

Total Time 55 minutes

Ingredients

12 oz pasta of choice
1 cup raw cashews (soaked)
1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 cloves garlic (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 tsp turmeric (optional, for color)
1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)
Optional toppings: vegan breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, or steamed vegetables

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cashews: Soak raw cashews in hot water for 15 minutes or until softened. Drain and rinse.
Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine soaked cashews, plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic, onion powder, salt, turmeric, and paprika. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Heat the Sauce: Pour the blended sauce into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 5 minutes.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly.
Serve: Transfer the mac and cheese to serving bowls. Garnish with your favorite toppings like vegan breadcrumbs, parsley, or veggies. Enjoy warm!

Notes

This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to get creative with toppings and mix-ins.
For extra cheesiness, add a touch of vegan cheddar shreds to the sauce.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 419Total Fat 17gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 5mgSodium 395mgCarbohydrates 51gFiber 6gSugar 7gProtein 18g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Pasta: Choose any pasta you love—elbows, shells, or gluten-free options work beautifully. Whole grain or chickpea pasta adds extra nutrition.
Cashews: These are the base of the creamy sauce. Soak them to ensure smooth blending.
Nutritional Yeast: Provides the cheesy, umami flavor essential to the dish.
Plant-Based Milk: Use unsweetened almond, soy, or oat milk for a neutral taste.
Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and balances the creaminess.
Garlic and Onion Powder: Essential for depth of flavor.
Turmeric: A pinch enhances the golden color without altering taste.
Optional Toppings: Crumbled vegan breadcrumbs or roasted vegetables add texture and flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetables: Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrients.
Protein: Toss in cooked chickpeas or baked tofu for a heartier meal.
Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free options like lentil or rice pasta.
Nut-Free: Substitute cashews with sunflower seeds or silken tofu for a nut-free version.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a smoky heat.

Storage Options

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of plant-based milk to restore the creamy consistency. Freezing is not recommended, as the sauce may lose its smooth texture.