Vegan Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

So, what makes this vegan mac and cheese casserole so special? It’s all about the ingredients! There are a few key elements that transform the humble pasta dish into a cheesy masterpiece. Let’s break it down:

1. Nutritional Yeast

Nutritional yeast is a plant-based superfood that brings that rich, cheesy flavor to vegan dishes. It’s loaded with B vitamins and is the perfect substitute for dairy in recipes like mac and cheese. When combined with other ingredients, it mimics the flavor and texture of cheese but without the dairy.

2. Cashews

Cashews are often used to make creamy, velvety vegan sauces. They’re high in healthy fats and proteins, and when blended, they create the perfect texture for a mac and cheese sauce. Cashews provide the necessary creaminess and richness that make this casserole feel indulgent.

3. Plant-Based Milk

You can use any plant-based milk for this recipe, but some of the best options are almond milk, oat milk, or cashew milk. These milks are creamy and neutral in flavor, making them ideal for blending with the cheese sauce ingredients. Choose a non-sweetened variety to avoid any unwanted sweetness.

4. Vegan Butter or Olive Oil

For extra richness and flavor, we’ll be using either vegan butter or olive oil. Vegan butter adds a buttery taste, while olive oil is a great alternative with a slightly different flavor profile. Both provide that luscious, rich taste we associate with mac and cheese.

5. Pasta

The base of any mac and cheese casserole is the pasta. Use any pasta you like—elbow macaroni is classic, but feel free to get creative! You can use gluten-free pasta or even chickpea pasta if you prefer a higher protein option.

6. Spices and Seasonings

To add depth and complexity to the dish, a few key spices are necessary. Mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, and smoked paprika add just the right amount of flavor. A pinch of salt and pepper will help bring everything together.

How to Make Vegan Mac and Cheese Casserole: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you know what goes into making this casserole, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of preparing it. Don’t worry—it’s easier than you might think!

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by boiling your pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water to give the pasta extra flavor. Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. This will form the base of your casserole.

Step 2: Make the Vegan Cheese Sauce

While your pasta is cooking, it’s time to make the creamy, cheesy sauce. Here’s how to do it:

1. Blend the Cashews: Start by soaking 1 cup of raw cashews in hot water for at least 15 minutes to soften them. Drain the water and blend the cashews in a high-speed blender with 1 cup of plant-based milk until smooth.
2. Add Nutritional Yeast: Add about 1/2 cup of nutritional yeast to the blender for that cheesy flavor. Then, add 1 tablespoon of vegan butter or olive oil for richness.
3. Season the Sauce: To give the sauce depth, add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of mustard powder, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric (for color and a slight earthy taste), and a pinch of smoked paprika for that savory kick. Blend until fully incorporated.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a stronger cheesy flavor, add more nutritional yeast. If it’s too thick, you can thin it out with more plant-based milk.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once your sauce is ready, pour it over the cooked pasta. Stir gently to make sure all the pasta is coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Now, it’s time to assemble the casserole! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little oil or non-stick spray, then pour the mac and cheese mixture into the dish. Smooth it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 5: Bake and Enjoy!

To give your casserole a crispy, golden top, bake it in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. The top should be slightly browned, and the casserole should be bubbling with deliciousness. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.