Why You’ll Love this Vegan Mac and Cheese Recipe
You’ll love this Vegan Mac and Cheese recipe because it combines the creamy comfort of traditional mac and cheese with wholesome, plant-based ingredients.
I know how much we crave that cheesy goodness, and this dish delivers without any dairy. The rich, velvety sauce makes every bite feel indulgent, while the hidden veggies add nutrition that’s hard to resist.
Plus, it’s super easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends. Trust me, once you try it, you won’t miss the cheese.
This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a delicious experience!
Ingredients of Vegan Mac and Cheese
When you’re ready to whip up some Vegan Mac and Cheese, it’s important to gather all the right ingredients. This dish not only satisfies your cheesy cravings but does so with a fantastic twist of healthiness thanks to the hidden veggies.
Let’s explore the pantry and fridge to see what we need for this creamy, dreamy delight that’s bound to impress even the pickiest eaters. Trust me, they won’t even know they’re eating their vegetables.
Ingredients for Vegan Mac and Cheese:
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 1 cup cauliflower, cubed
- 1/2 cup carrot, sliced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 lb mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
Now, before you dash off to the grocery store, let’s chat about a few ingredient considerations. You can totally play around with the veggies in this recipe. If butternut squash isn’t your jam, you could swap it for sweet potatoes or even pumpkin.
And don’t fret if you don’t have nutritional yeast on hand; it adds that cheesy flavor, but you could leave it out if you’re in a pinch. Just remember, the key to this dish is balancing the flavors and textures, so pick your veggies wisely.
Oh, and if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some spices or herbs to jazz it up a bit. Cooking is all about having fun, right?
How to Make Vegan Mac and Cheese
Making Vegan Mac and Cheese is a delightful adventure in the kitchen, and trust me, it’s as fun to make as it’s to eat. First things first, you’ll want to cook 16 ounces of elbow macaroni according to the package directions. But here’s a little tip—cook it for about 3 minutes less than recommended so it’s al dente. Remember, it will keep cooking when you bake it later, so we don’t want it to turn into mush.
While that’s boiling away, grab a pan and heat up 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss in 1 pound of sliced mushrooms and sauté them until they’re shriveled and beautifully cooked. You’ll want to set those aside for later because they’re going to add a lovely texture to your dish.
Now, let’s get to the star of the show—the creamy sauce. In a separate pot, add your chopped veggies: 1/2 cup of onion, 1/2 cup of sliced carrots, 2 cups of cubed butternut squash, and 1 cup of cubed cauliflower. Cover them with enough water to fully submerge those colorful veggies. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until everything is fork-tender. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Once they’re nice and soft, drain the water and transfer the veggies to a food processor. Add in 1 cup of almond milk, 1/2 cup of nutritional yeast, the juice of 1 lemon, 3 garlic cloves, and all those seasonings—1/2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric. Blend it until smooth and creamy, and oh, my goodness, it’ll smell heavenly.
Now comes the fun part—bringing it all together! Pour that luscious sauce into a large saucepan over medium-high heat and give it a little warm-up, just until it starts to bubble lightly. You can then gently fold in your cooked pasta and sautéed mushrooms, stirring until everything is nicely coated.
Then, transfer it all into a large baking dish or individual baking dishes if you’re feeling fancy. Don’t forget to sprinkle 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs on top for that perfect crunchy finish. Bake it at 350ºF for about 20 minutes, until the breadcrumbs are golden brown. If you want to take it to the next level, switch on the broiler for the last minute or two, but keep a watchful eye so it doesn’t burn.
And just like that, you have a warm, cheesy, veggie-packed dish that will make even the staunchest cheese lover reconsider their options. Enjoy every creamy bite.
Vegan Mac and Cheese Substitutions & Variations
After whipping up that creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese, you might find yourself wanting to mix things up a bit.
I love experimenting with different vegetables; try adding spinach, roasted red peppers, or even kale for an extra nutrient boost. If you’re craving a smoky flavor, toss in some smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
For a protein punch, chickpeas or lentils can be fantastic additions. You can also swap the almond milk for coconut milk for a richer taste.
And don’t forget about the cheeses—nutritional yeast can be combined with cashew cheese for a creamier sauce. Enjoy the creativity!
What to Serve with Vegan Mac and Cheese
What pairs well with a comforting bowl of Vegan Mac and Cheese? I love serving it alongside a fresh, crisp salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and avocado adds a revitalizing contrast.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, grilled vegetables or roasted broccoli make a delicious side. For a bit of crunch, try some garlic bread or vegan garlic knots—they’re irresistible!
If you want to elevate the meal, a side of lentil soup or a hearty vegetable stew can round out the plate perfectly. Enjoy your meal and savor each bite!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Vegan Mac and Cheese, keep in mind a few extra tips to enhance your experience.
First, feel free to experiment with different veggies in the sauce; spinach or sweet potatoes can add unique flavors. For extra creaminess, try adding a splash more almond milk. If you love spice, a pinch of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños works wonders.
Make sure to watch the breadcrumbs while baking; they can quickly go from golden to burnt. Finally, let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking; it firms up nicely and makes serving much easier.
Enjoy every bite!