Creamy Vegan Mac & Cheese Without Cashews

Name: Creamy Vegan Mac & Cheese Without Cashews
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 cup yellow potatoes (unpeeled, chopped into small cubes); 1/2 cup carrots (peeled, chopped into small pieces); 1/4 cup onion (diced); 1 cup water; 8 oz macaroni noodles (or noodles of choice); 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour; 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (such as soy or almond); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; 2 Tbsp nutritional yeast; 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 Tbsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp turmeric; Pinch of pepper

Ah, the comfort of a warm, creamy bowl of mac and cheese—something that often conjures sweet memories of childhood dinners or late-night snacks. Now, imagine being able to indulge in that memory with a vegan twist that doesn’t rely on cashews for its creaminess. This Creamy Vegan Mac & Cheese Without Cashews is a modern take on a classic dish that’s not only tantalizing to your taste buds but also warm and inviting to your soul. With its luscious, cheese-like flavor and smooth, velvety texture, this recipe gives all the satisfaction you crave without any dairy. Perfect for cozy evenings at home, gatherings with friends, or quick meals on busy weeknights, this dish beautifully balances nostalgia and a healthier approach to comfort food.

Recipe Snapshot

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

This mac and cheese is not just a meal; it’s an experience—one that is ready in just 30 minutes!

Dietary Insights

Per serving, this creamy vegan delight packs a nutritious punch. Here’s the breakdown of the nutritional facts:

Calories: 300
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 6g
Sugars: 3g

This recipe employs wholesome ingredients like potatoes, carrots, and nutritional yeast, making it a favorite among health-conscious individuals while also ensuring it’s a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love It

Imagine the tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this dish. The irresistible creaminess, without the heaviness of traditional cheeses, allows for a delightfully indulgent experience without the guilt. Perfect for gatherings with family and friends, this recipe will surely become the highlight of any meal. It also serves as a fantastic conversation starter, allowing you to share anecdotes and joys of cooking while savoring every cheesy bite. Plus, it’s an excellent meal prep option for those bustling weekdays—whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!

Cooking Directions

How to Make Creamy Vegan Mac & Cheese Without Cashews

Ingredients

1 cup yellow potatoes (unpeeled, chopped into small cubes)
1/2 cup carrots (peeled, chopped into small pieces)
1/4 cup onion (diced)
1 cup water
8 oz macaroni noodles (or noodles of choice)
3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (such as soy or almond)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
2 Tbsp nutritional yeast
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 Tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp turmeric
Pinch of pepper

Instructions

Dice your onion, potatoes, and carrots into small cubes and pieces. The smaller, the better for quicker cooking.
In a medium saucepan, add the onion, potatoes, and carrots along with 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, cover, and then simmer for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables are fork-tender.
While the veggies are simmering, heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over low-medium heat. Gradually add the flour and whisk together until combined.
Increase the stove heat to medium, slowly adding in the non-dairy milk while whisking. In 1-2 minutes, the mixture will begin to thicken; continue whisking until it forms a dough ball, then immediately remove from heat to avoid burning.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Once the vegetables are tender, drain them—saving the cooking liquid in a bowl.
In a food processor or high-speed blender, add the cooked vegetables, flour mixture, spices, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, and 1/4 cup of the saved vegetable liquid. Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of vegetable liquid at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Pour the creamy sauce over the cooked noodles and gently mix to combine. Enjoy!

Remember to taste your sauce as you go; adjusting spices to your preference can enhance the flavor dramatically!

Ways to Enjoy

This Creamy Vegan Mac & Cheese can be enjoyed in myriad ways! Serve it plain for a simple yet satisfying meal or dress it up with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an elevated experience. For an even heartier dish, consider adding roasted vegetables or a side of garlic bread. Pairing it with a light salad or a refreshing drink can balance its richness beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

How to Store

To enjoy your mac and cheese later:

Room Temperature: It’s best not to leave it out for more than 2 hours.
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before enjoying.

Insider Secrets

To achieve the perfect mac and cheese texture, be mindful of how long you blend the sauce; over-blending can lead to a gummy texture. If you prefer a more vibrant color, feel free to adjust the amount of turmeric. Additionally, you can experiment with other non-dairy milk options like oat milk for a creamier variant or unsweetened coconut milk for a unique flavor twist.

Fun Flavor Ideas

Love experimenting? Here are a couple of variations to kick up your vegan mac and cheese:

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a gentle heat.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh basil or spinach while blending for a burst of flavor and a pop of color.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A: Absolutely! Substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly.

Q: What’s a good substitute for nutritional yeast?
A: If you’re in a pinch, try blending some hemp seeds or sunflower seeds with a dash of garlic powder for a similar cheesy flavor.

Q: Can I increase the portion size?
A: Yes! You can easily double or triple the recipe; just ensure your blender can handle the increased volume.

Q: How do I fix a runny sauce?
A: If your sauce is too thin, add a little cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it while heating on the stove.

Embrace the comfort and joy that this Creamy Vegan Mac & Cheese Without Cashews brings to your table. Each bowl is an opportunity to unwind, savor, and create beautiful memories with loved ones. Whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or enjoying a quiet evening in, it’s sure to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Give it a try and let the creamy goodness wrap around you like a warm hug! Feel free to share your creations and experiences in the comments—let’s foster this community around the love of cooking!