Welcome to our recipe blog, where we share the best vegan mac and cheese recipes! This creamy, dairy-free dish is perfect for those looking for a plant-based comfort food option.This Vegan Mac and Cheese is a creamy, dreamy bowl of plant-based comfort food. Made with nutrient-packed ingredients like cashews, nutritional yeast, and a hint of spices, it boasts a rich and cheesy flavor without any dairy.

Elevate your plant-based diet with our mouthwatering vegan mac and cheese recipes. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. Tossed with tender pasta and a velvety sauce, it’s a wholesome and indulgent dish that’s perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side, this recipe delivers satisfying, guilt-free comfort in every bite.

Ultimate Vegan Mac and Cheese Recipe

Our recipe blog focuses on delicious plant-based dishes, and this vegan mac and cheese is no exception.Looking for the ultimate vegan mac and cheese that’s creamy, cheesy, and completely dairy-free without relying on store-bought vegan cheese? You’re in the right place! This recipe skips the packaged alternatives and creates a rich, velvety cheese sauce entirely from scratch using pantry staples and a touch of culinary magic.

Why This Recipe Works

Unlike traditional recipes that might rely on pre-made vegan cheese, this version is crafted with a homemade béchamel sauce infused with bold, cheesy flavors. If vegan cheese is hard to come by where you live, or you simply prefer homemade goodness, this recipe is a game-changer. After testing variations with vegan cheese, I found that sticking to natural ingredients yields the creamiest and most flavorful result.

Homemade Vegan Breadcrumbs

For that classic crispy topping, homemade breadcrumbs are the way to go:

1. Toast 3 slices of thick-cut white bread until golden brown.

2. Break the toasted bread into chunks and blitz them in a blender or food processor until they turn into coarse crumbs.

3. Melt 2 tbsp of vegan butter and toss the breadcrumbs to coat them evenly.

Ingredients for the Vegan Cheese Sauce:

• 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for a creamier texture)

• 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water

• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken the sauce)

• 2 tablespoons vegan butter (or olive oil)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (adds tang and depth)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for color)

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a hint of smokiness)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)

For the Macaroni:

• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)

• Salt for the pasta water

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).

3. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a little pasta water in case you need to thin out the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegan Cheese Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt the vegan butter over medium heat.

2. Once melted, whisk in the flour to make a roux. Stir for about 1-2 minutes until it thickens and turns golden.

3. Gradually pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth while whisking to create a smooth mixture.

4. Once the mixture thickens into a creamy consistency (about 5-7 minutes), add the nutritional yeast, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

5. Stir to combine all the ingredients and taste the sauce. If desired, add a splash of lemon juice for extra tang.

6. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes to ensure the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked macaroni into the saucepan with the cheese sauce, and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.

2. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Serve

1. Serve the mac and cheese hot, straight from the pan for a creamy, comforting meal.

2. If you like, top with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of extra nutritional yeast, or vegan breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.

Tips and Variations:

• For a baked version: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with seasoned breadcrumbs, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top.

Add-ins: Try adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Don’t forget to explore more recipes on our blog for more plant-based delights.