Here’s a creamy and cheesy Vegan Macaroni and Cheese recipe that’s quick, comforting, and totally dairy-free! It’s made with simple plant-based ingredients and a sauce that’s rich and velvety. This recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and cozy weekends.
Yield: 4 Servings
Ingredients:
For the Macaroni:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
- Salt, for the pasta water
For the Vegan Cheese Sauce:
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes), until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside. Reserve a little bit of pasta water in case you want to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
2. Prepare the Vegan Cheese Sauce:
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. If you like a thicker cheese sauce, you can add the cornstarch and blend again until smooth.
3. Heat the Sauce:
- Pour the blended cheese sauce into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
- Once the sauce is heated, pour it over the drained macaroni in a large bowl or pot. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy cheese sauce.
5. Serve:
- Serve immediately while hot, topped with extra black pepper, fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
- You can also add a side of steamed veggies (broccoli is a classic choice!) or enjoy it as a main dish.
Tips:
- Customizations: You can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables like cauliflower or sweet potatoes to make the dish even more hearty.
- Cheese Variations: If you want to make the sauce even cheesier, try adding a tablespoon or two of vegan cream cheese or a splash of vegan sour cream.
- Spicy Option: For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Make It Crunchy: For a crispy topping, top your mac and cheese with breadcrumbs (preferably toasted in a pan with olive oil) and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
This Vegan Mac and Cheese is rich, creamy, and so satisfying, with all the cheesy flavor you love without the dairy. It’s the perfect comfort food for vegans and non-vegans alike. Enjoy!
