Why You’ll Love this Vegan Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s both creamy and satisfying, you’ll love this vegan baked mac and cheese recipe. It’s rich, cheesy, and totally indulgent without any dairy.
The creamy texture wraps around each noodle perfectly, making every bite a delight. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
I love how it brings everyone together, whether they’re vegan or not. And the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes? Absolutely irresistible!
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make this dish again and again.
Ingredients of Vegan Baked Mac and Cheese
Are you ready to whip up some delicious vegan baked mac and cheese? This dish isn’t only creamy and cheesy—it’s also super simple to make with just a handful of ingredients. You might be wondering, “What exactly do I need to grab from the pantry?” Well, I’ve got you covered. Here’s the list of ingredients that will transform your kitchen into a cozy haven of cheesy goodness.
- 3 1/2 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup margarine
- 1/2 cup flour
- 3 1/2 cups boiling water
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 pinch turmeric
- 1/4 cup oil
- 1 cup nutritional yeast flakes
- Paprika (for sprinkling on top)
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients for a second. If you’re not familiar with nutritional yeast, it’s a game-changer. This flaky wonder adds a cheesy flavor without any dairy, making it perfect for vegan dishes. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins, especially B12, which is super important for those on a plant-based diet.
When selecting your margarine, look for a brand that’s trans-fat-free and made with good oils. And don’t skimp on that paprika; it adds a lovely color and a hint of smokiness that elevates the whole dish.
Just make sure you have everything prepped before diving in; trust me, nothing’s worse than realizing you’re out of soy sauce halfway through.
How to Make Vegan Baked Mac and Cheese
Alright, let’s plunge into making this Vegan Baked Mac and Cheese. It’s going to be a cozy, cheesy adventure that’ll warm your heart and fill your belly.
First things first, grab 3 1/2 cups of dry elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package directions. You want it al dente because it’s going to bake later, and nobody wants mushy pasta, right?
While that’s bubbling away, let’s work on our creamy cheese sauce.
In a medium to large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of margarine over low heat. Once it’s melted and looking all shiny, whisk in 1/2 cup of flour. You want to keep whisking until this mixture, known as a roux, is smooth and bubbly—like a mini science project in your kitchen.
Now, here comes the fun part: gradually whip in 3 1/2 cups of boiling water, along with 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 1/2 teaspoons of garlic powder, and a pinch of turmeric. Keep stirring until it thickens and bubbles like a happy little cauldron. This is where the magic happens, folks.
Once thickened, add in 1/4 cup of oil and 1 cup of nutritional yeast flakes. The nutritional yeast is what gives this dish its cheesy flavor—seriously, it’s like a culinary miracle.
Now, take some of that luscious sauce and mix it with the cooked noodles in a casserole dish. Pour the rest of that cheesy goodness on top, making sure every noodle gets a good coating.
Don’t forget to sprinkle some paprika on top for that nice color and a hint of smokiness. Pop it in the preheated oven at 350º F for about 15 minutes.
And if you want that sauce to bubble and get all stretchy, just put it under the broiler for a few minutes until it’s perfectly crisp. Just keep an eye on it, or you might end up with a charred masterpiece instead of a cheesy one. Trust me, I’ve learned that the hard way.
And there you have it—your Vegan Baked Mac and Cheese is ready to be devoured!
Vegan Baked Mac and Cheese Substitutions & Variations
Although I love the classic Vegan Baked Mac and Cheese recipe, experimenting with substitutions and variations can elevate this dish to new heights.
For a nut-free option, try using sunflower seed butter instead of cashews in the cheese sauce. If you want a smoky flavor, add some smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
To boost nutrition, mix in steamed broccoli or spinach. You can also swap out elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta or zoodles for a lighter twist.
Play around with different plant-based cheeses for a unique taste, or add spices like cayenne for a kick. The possibilities are endless!
What to Serve with Vegan Baked Mac and Cheese
When I whip up a creamy Vegan Baked Mac and Cheese, I love to think about what side dishes will complement it perfectly. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances the richness.
Roasted vegetables, like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, provide a hearty contrast and a pop of color. For something a bit more indulgent, I often serve garlic bread on the side.
If I’m feeling adventurous, I might whip up some vegan coleslaw for a revitalizing twist. These sides not only enhance the meal but also make it a bit more exciting and satisfying!
Additional Tips & Notes
To make your Vegan Baked Mac and Cheese even more delightful, consider experimenting with different types of pasta or adding your favorite veggies.
I love throwing in some spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients and color.
Also, try adding a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
If you want a creamier texture, blend in a bit of coconut milk or cashew cream.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge, but I recommend reheating them gently to maintain that cheesy goodness.
Finally, don’t forget to share this recipe with friends; they’ll be impressed by your culinary skills!