Creamy Vegan Mac & Cheese

Cooking the perfect pasta is crucial for achieving a delectable vegan mac and cheese. The timing of your pasta cooking can make a significant difference in texture. Aim for al dente pasta, which means the pasta should be firm to the bite rather than soft and mushy. To achieve this, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding your pasta. The general rule of thumb is to follow the package instructions for cooking time, but start checking for doneness a couple of minutes early.

Discover the Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese Delight, a comforting plant-based twist on a classic favorite. This rich and creamy dish is made from wholesome, nutritious ingredients that satisfy cravings without compromising on flavor. Perfectly crafted for vegans and non-vegans alike, this recipe is versatile and easy to prepare. Whether enjoyed as a main course or hearty side, it’s a delicious option for a healthy meal. Embrace the joys of plant-based cooking with this delightful dish!

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Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni (choose gluten-free if preferred)

1 cup raw cashews, soaked in water for at least 4 hours

1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any preferred plant-based milk)

1/4 cup nutritional yeast

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for added creaminess)

Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside for later use.

Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce: In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked cashews, almond milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend the mixture on high speed until it becomes velvety smooth and creamy. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add more almond milk, blending until you achieve a pourable consistency.

Heat the Cheese Sauce: Transfer the blended cheese sauce into a medium saucepan placed over medium heat. Stir the sauce continuously with a spatula or wooden spoon for about 3-5 minutes until it is heated through and slightly thickened. For an additional layer of richness, fold in the olive oil at this point and mix well.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni directly into the saucepan with the warm cheese sauce. Gently stir until all the pasta is thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is filled with flavor.

Serve with Style: Remove the saucepan from heat. Portion the creamy mac and cheese into individual bowls. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle with finely chopped parsley or chives on top before serving. Dive in and enjoy the luscious flavors of your vegan mac and cheese!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings